Some call fall, football season. Others the start of the holiday season. But for some, fall is beautifully known as bonfire season.
That’s right, as the crisp, cool air creeps into our days, enjoying a fire in the backyard is one of the perfect ways to keep warm. So this fall, if you’re wanting to throw the perfect bonfire party, here are a few tips and tricks to help fuel the party flames and keep it raging into the night … literally.
S’mores bar
Bonfires and s’mores go together like peanut butter and jelly. Both exist without the other, but their true value exponentially grows when combined. The best part is, whether you’re young or old, everyone can enjoy a s’more. For kids it’s fun to play in the fire. For adults ... it’s also fun to play in the fire, and nostalgic. And speaking of nostalgia, maybe you’ve got some old bonfire photos from your younger years that you’d like to digitize to share with your kids. You know, show them that you’ve been an expert at s’more making since you were a child.
Pro tip: nobody ever said that s’mores were only supposed to be made with milk chocolate Hershey’s. Try mixing up the chocolately goodness with a Kit Kat, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup and more.
Seating
Bonfires are all about being comfortable. Besides the radiant heat that warms the soul and body from a soothing blaze, bonfires are also great opportunities to gather ‘round in a circle and converse with people on a unique level that other venues can’t offer. So making sure that you’ve got enough seats (tailgating chairs work great and are easy to move) that are all close enough to the fire (read: warm enough) can go a long way. But if you’re looking for a more rustic look, never underestimate the use of a good tree stump. A little coat of polyethene on the top and you’ve got a bonfire seat that’s ready to last a few cold seasons.
Projector movie, fireside
What’s better than gathering around a bonfire with friends and family? How about gathering around a bonfire to watch your favorite streaming services outside, recreating your own drive-in movie theater in the comfort of your own backyard? Nowadays, you can buy a decent portable projector online, on the cheap. Supplement it with a Fire TV Stick and you’re in bonfire movie business. Seriously, it’s one of the most fun ways to watch movies and shows, especially scary ones around Halloween season.
Scary stories
Speaking of scary things. Bonfires make the perfect stage for telling scary stories. Do you remember “Are You Afraid of the Dark” – where my 90’s kids at?! The whole show is about kids telling ghost stories around a bonfire.
You can even make it a competition to see who can tell the scariest story. It will keep the kids entertained for hours. And by hours, what I really mean is they probably won’t be sleeping soundly that night.
Acoustic jam session
Bonfires are ideal for having a few drinks with friends and listening to music. But who says you need Spotify to enjoy a good bonfire? Throw an old-school bonfire party by grabbing your guitar, or someone who knows how to play a guitar. Learn a handful of popular songs and have a jolly ol’ time just singing along. It’s how some of the best memories are made, folks.
Roast some dogs
Hot dogs, that is. Although not quite as fun as roasting s’mores, roasting hot dogs is like having your own dinner and a show. Grab some side dishes, pile some drinks in the cooler and get to roasting your wieners. I’m firmly in the burnt dog is a better dog camp, just saying.
There are tons of ways you can throw an awesome bonfire party. Even a simple bonfire with nothing else is well worth it, but if you’re looking to make your fireside gathering a hit, then try some of the above tips and tricks for your next bonfire party. It’s sure to be lit.
