How to Have the Best Memorial Day Cookout

We are ready for the return of cookouts with friends and family. This Memorial Day is a great chance to celebrate the start of summer and cook some amazing food.

At Char-Griller HQ, we consider Memorial Day the official kick-off of summer and grilling season (even though we know grilling doesn’t really have a season).

Since it is fast approaching, to make sure you are prepared, we wrote this guide on how to still have a great Memorial Day, despite the odds.

1. Get Your Grill Ready

Whether it needs new parts, you need more charcoal or you need to actually buy a grill, make sure your grill is ready at least two days before the big day.

We all know at least one person who has bought their grill on the same day they want to use it. We’re here to tell you that in order to preserve your sanity (and to be sure you eat before midnight), give yourself at least two days to assemble your grill.

2. Plan Your Menu

There are so many delicious things you can cook and serve on Memorial Day. Solidify your meats, sides, desserts, and beverages. Make a list, be sure to stick to it, and double check what you already have in the house. This can avoid any potential overbuying. Don’t forget disposable plates, silverware and cups if you need them!

Check out our Memorial Day Grocery List Here.

3. Decorations

Even if you won’t have guests over, you can still get yourself and the rest of the family in the festive mood. Buy or dust off the same red, white, and blue tablecloths and decor that you would normally use for the big cookout.

4. Have Enough Fuel

Important enough to bring up twice. Make sure that you have extra charcoal and a full propane tank before Memorial Day. The last thing you want is to run out of fuel halfway through cooking the meal.

5. Time Your Cook

Planning on barbecuing or smoking? Make sure you give yourself plenty of time. If you are smoking a brisket or making pulled pork, you might even have to start the night before. Making ribs or smoking a chicken? Get up early to make sure that everything is ready.

Want to keep it simple? Burgers, brats and hotdogs are a great way to go. Just make sure that you grab a few foil pans with lids to keep everything warm.

6. Get Extra Ice

Because you always, always seem to need more ice than you buy.

Memorial Day will only feel as normal as you make it feel. Keep up the same excitement and energy and you’re sure to have a great day! What are your favorite Memorial Day tips? Leave them in the comments below!