Grill & Chill: Your Ultimate BBQ Winter Warmers Setup Guide - 5 Effective Ways to help create the perfect winter party
BBQ season doesn’t have to end when summer does. A winter BBQ brings friends and family together in a cozy, festive way, just with a few extra layers and a little more planning.
Here’s how to set up your winter BBQ for success, so your guests stay warm, fed and having a great time.
1. Invest in a good outdoor heater
Fire pits, patio heaters or even a chiminea can make a huge difference. Place them in your main gathering area so people stay toasty while eating and chatting.
When it comes to keeping your guests warm without cranking up your energy bill, infrared heaters are a winter BBQ game-changer.
Unlike traditional heaters that warm the air (which quickly escapes outdoors), infrared heaters warm people and objects directly, just like the sun. That means your guests feel the heat instantly, even in open, breezy areas.
Here’s a quick video on how infrared heaters work.
2. Get Set Up Before Guests Arrive
It gets darker and colder earlier in winter, so make sure your outdoor heating is on and your BBQ grill is fired up before your guests walk in. Light your BBQ grill early, prep your cooking station, and check that everything’s working properly, there’s nothing worse than a cold start!
3. Stock Up on Fuel and Food
You’ll likely burn more fuel in winter than in summer, especially if it’s windy or below freezing. Whether you’re using gas, charcoal or wood, double up your supply.
🔥 Fuel Checklist:
Charcoal BBQ? Stock up on an extra bag of charcoal, firelighters, and a refillable gas lighter.
Gas BBQ? Always have a backup gas bottle on hand, don’t rely on the one you think is full.
And don’t forget the food! Go for hearty, warm dishes that people love in colder weather like slow-cooked meats, grilled sausages, and comforting sides like baked potatoes or mac and cheese. Looking for a next-level snack? One of our all time crowd-pleasers is Dealsy’s Prosciutto-Wrapped Smoked Brie. It’s rich, indulgent and oozing with flavour, an easy win for any winter BBQ spread. Serve it hot off the grill with crusty bread or crackers and watch it disappear.
4. Use the right gear
That means dressing warm and having the right gear at your grill station. Remind your guests to bundle up! Layers, gloves, scarves and beanies are essential for outdoor comfort. Provide extra blankets or even a few hot water bottles if you want to go the extra mile.
Staying warm is only half the equation. Grill-ready gear like heat resistant gloves, a meat thermometer, grill brush and a BBQ with a lid will make winter cooking safer, easier and far more efficient.
5. Keep Food Warm and Beers Cold
Balancing hot food and cool drinks is the secret to winter BBQ bliss. Cold food can ruin the vibe. Use covered trays, warming racks or double-wall insulated bowls to keep everything piping hot.
Even in winter, the drinks flow. While the air does a decent job of chilling your beverages, don’t leave it to chance! Use a YETI cooler or an ice-filled bucket to keep beers and soft drinks at the perfect temp, without freezing. At the same time, offer warm options like hot chocolate, mulled wine or winter cocktails to keep everyone cozy and in good spirits throughout the BBQ.
Bonus Tip! Set the Mood with Cosy Lighting
Winter evenings can get dark early, but that’s the perfect excuse to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Hanging string lights overhead or lining pathways with solar lanterns adds charm and keeps guests feeling welcome.
For an extra touch of magic, use battery-operated or LED candles placed around seating areas and tables. The soft flicker of light paired with crackling fire pits makes your winter BBQ feel like a festive retreat, inviting guests to relax and linger long after the last bite.
