Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer and now is the perfect opportunity to throw open the back door and enjoy Colorado’s beautiful outdoor living season. Here are our favorite backyard entertaining basics to get you ready for summer weekends, whether you’re hosting a full neighborhood cookout or a low-key family gathering.
May 12, 2026
Backyard Entertaining Basics: Get Your Home Ready for Summer
1. Set the Scene with Defined Outdoor Spaces
One of the keys to great outdoor entertaining is creating a space that feels intentional, not just a patch of grass with a grill. To do that, think about your backyard in zones:
- A cooking zone centered around your grill or smoker
- A dining area with a table and enough seating for your guest count
- A lounging zone with comfortable chairs or a sectional for relaxed conversation
Even if your backyard is still taking shape, a few simple additions can make a big difference. Inexpensive outdoor rugs, string lights, and potted plants can define each space and make the whole area feel welcoming and put-together.
2. Stock Your Grill Station Like a Pro
No summer gathering is complete without a great cookout spread. So before guests arrive, make sure your grill station is fully prepped:
- Clean your grill grates the day before: a wire brush and a quick oiling will do the trick
- Stock a side table or cart with tongs, a meat thermometer, aluminum foil, and a spray bottle of water for flare-ups
- Set up a prep area nearby for marinades, seasonings, and platters
- Keep a cooler close by so you’re not running inside constantly
Pro tip: Don’t forget propane! Check your tank level a day or two ahead of time.
3. Create a Self-Serve Drink Station
Want to stay free to mingle? Set up a drink station guests can access on their own. All you need is:
- A large cooler or galvanized tub filled with ice and canned/bottled beverages
- A small folding table with cups, a pitcher of water or lemonade, and a few garnishes
- A recycling bin and trash can right nearby to keep things tidy
For a festive USA-themed touch, use red, white, and blue cups or a star-spangled tablecloth. Simple details go a long way.
4. Keep Kids and Pets in Mind
If your summer gathering includes kids or four-legged guests, a little extra planning makes a big difference. Start by setting up a designated activity zone for the little ones. Lawn games like corn hole, bocce ball, or a sprinkler are great options for hot afternoons. Also, make sure your yard is clear of hazards and that all gates are latched. Finally, keep pet food and water dishes in the shade if furry friends will be joining the fun.
5. Light it Up for Evening Entertaining
Memorial Day weekend starts the beginning of longer summer days. However, great parties often stretch into the evening, and lighting is everything once the sun goes down:
- String lights draped from the eaves or through pergola beams create instant ambiance
- Solar path lights along walkways are both decorative and practical
- Citronella candles or torches serve double duty: they set a cozy mood and help keep mosquitoes at bay
6. Don’t Forget the Finishing Touches
In the end, the details are what guests remember. Here are a few finishing touches that make a big difference:
- A designated serving table for food: buffet-style makes it easy for guests to help themselves
- Labels on dishes so guests know what they’re eating (especially helpful for dietary restrictions)
- A small first aid kit tucked nearby: sunscreen, bug spray, and bandages are always appreciated
- A guest book or photo station for a memory keepsake
Practice These Backyard Entertaining Tips in a New Challenger Home
The best backyard parties start with a home you love. Whether you’re just getting settled into a new community or you’ve been hosting summer gatherings for years, your home is the backdrop for memories that last. If you’re ready to find your new home in Colorado Springs, visit one of our communities to browse our quick move-in homes, ideal locations, and modern floorplans. Or simply contact us today to learn more.
2026 Best of the Springs Winner
And when you’re choosing a builder, it’s good to know you’re in trusted hands: Challenger Homes was recognized in the 2026 Best of the Springs, earning Silver for Home Developer and Bronze for Production Home Builder. We are incredibly proud to continue building homes in Colorado Springs. From first foundations to final walk-throughs, everything we do is rooted in this amazing community. Seeing a house transform into a home, and a neighborhood into a community, is why we do this. That’s Making Life Better. Thank you for naming us among the best!