Whether it's a Fourth of July bash, a graduation party, or a just-because BBQ, the essentials are the same. Here's everything that earns its place at a Dallas–Fort Worth backyard cookout.
Seating & tables
Start with a seat for most of your guests and enough table space to eat and serve. For a 60-person cookout, that's about ten 6-foot tables and sixty chairs — exactly our Party for 60 package.
- One chair per guest (you can size down to ~70% for a come-and-go crowd)
- One 6-foot table per 6–8 seated guests — see the full seating guide
- 2–3 extra tables for food and serving
- One drinks table near the entrance
- One dessert or watermelon table in the shade
Keeping drinks cold
In Texas heat, ice disappears fast. Don't make one cooler do the work of three.
- Plan two large coolers for a 60-guest cookout — one for water, one for sodas and drinks
- Keep them in the shade and topped off with ice through the day
- Set them away from the food line so traffic doesn't pile up
Our Cookout for 60 package ($200) bundles the tables, chairs, and two coolers together — the easiest way to cover seating and drinks in one step.
Shade & comfort
- Position seating under trees, patio covers, or canopies
- Start the meal later in the afternoon as the sun drops
- Have bug spray and a few fans ready for still, humid evenings
- Stock plenty of water — guests dehydrate faster than they realize
Music & atmosphere
One good speaker turns a backyard into a party. The JBL PartyBox 110 is loud enough for a full yard, runs on Bluetooth from your phone, and adds a light show once the sun goes down. Charge it fully and build your playlist the night before.
The small stuff people forget
- Trash and recycling cans with extra bags — at least two stations
- Serving utensils, foil, and paper towels in bulk
- A folding table just for condiments and napkins
- Extension cords if your speaker or fans need power
- A simple first-aid kit near the grill