Hosting Large Cookout with Others Frieds and Their Families!!

We had cookout and my friend decided to have a craft table and I can tell you it was a complete waste of time and material. It didn't hold the kids interest at all. What they loved were the water sprinkler, water slide and water balloons. Even the adults got in on that. We had frisbees and everyone played a couple of rounds of kickball. Kids like to be active outside so having them sit and work on a craft may not work. We made sure we had plenty of bottled water and popsickles to keep them hydrated. Have fun with your cookout!!

Unless the crafts are the purpose of the party (like a quilting bee) they will be the last things done.

Have lots of water games, sprinklers, water balloons, marshmellows, hot dogs, etc. Most of the kids won't stand around a fire long enough to roast a hot dog, they will stick around to eat a roasted marshmellow or make a s'more.

As far as assigning food, make a list of what you would like to eat, then call your invitees and ask them what they want to bring off your list.

Be sure to keep a list of those that brought home made stuff that tasted great. Call them first and ask them to bring that dish next time. Call the people that bought stuff and brought it last because they will buy stuff again.

Good luck to you and yours.

Have the kids bring their super-soakers. Fill water balloons early in the day store in a large plastic bin and begin the battle when least expected. (don't target moms or teen girls unless they want to be involved). Big tarps, baby shampoo & a hose make great fun for dads & kids. Some kind of ball game depnding on kids ages: kick ball, volley ball, badminton, etc.

As for food - we usually do meat and assign other stuff. Don't forget soda, paper goods, ice, salads. It gets very expensive so don't be shy about assinging stuff.

You could provide the meat and just have everyone bring a dish to share? That's what we like to do. I also make a side and/or provide chips and watermelon!!!!

Sprinkler
Slip and Slide
Balls/frizbees
Sidewalk chalk
water guns/balloons
and Bubbles!