Backyard parties & BBQs
Summer BBQ block party
Long tables, lawn games and lemonade
See the setup, games and rentals
Backyard parties & BBQs ideas
Backyard parties & BBQs: themes, setups and activities
A backyard party needs four things a venue gives you for free: cover, light, seating and restrooms. The ideas below show how to set up each, plus games and themes, with the rentals priced for your guest count.
Themes
3 backyard party themes
Each theme lists a palette, decor, setups, activities, props and the rentals with live prices.
Backyard parties & BBQs
Bistro lights cocktail night
Highboys, a bar and a lounge under the lights
See the setup, games and rentals
Backyard parties & BBQs
Fall bonfire party
Heaters, lounge seating and warm drinks
See the setup, games and rentals
Setup ideas
How to set up a backyard party
Layouts for backyards, tents and indoor rooms, with the rentals each one takes.
- 1
Tent and bistro lights
Backyard
A 20 by 20 frame tent seats about 40 at rounds; string lights carry the party past sunset.
- 2
Food truck lawn
Backyard
Highboys and a few banquet tables near the driveway for food truck service, with lawn seating.
- 3
Fire-pit lounge
Backyard
Lounge furniture in a half circle and patio heaters for a cool September night.
Activities, games and props
Things to do at a backyard party
Yard games
Cornhole, Jenga and connect four.
Rent: Yard game ($27.50)
Outdoor movie
A projector and screen after dark.
Rent: Projector ($110), Projection screen ($55), Portable PA system ($110)
Snow cone or popcorn cart
Easy treats for all ages.
Rent: Snow cone machine ($60.50), Popcorn machine ($82.50)
Self-serve drinks
Dispensers of lemonade and iced tea in the shade.
Rent: Beverage dispenser ($12.10)
Questions
Backyard parties & BBQs FAQs
Do I need a permit for a tent in my backyard?
Many Chicago suburbs require a permit for tents above a certain size (often 400 to 900 square feet). Check with your village, and call 811 before any stakes go in.
Do I need portable restrooms for a backyard party?
For more than about 75 to 100 guests, or a party longer than four hours, a rented restroom saves your home's plumbing. Plan one unit per 50 guests.
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