Labor Day is the perfect time to squeeze in one last summer celebration. Whether you are planning a backyard BBQ with family, a casual neighborhood cookout, or a large celebration with friends, we’ve got tips to make your Labor Day party a smashing success.

1. Plan early: Labor Day is a popular weekend for travel, and those that don’t travel often make plans early with family and friends. Whether you send out formal save-the-date cards, a quick email invite, or just a group text, make sure to give your intended guests the details ASAP.
2. Choose a theme: Choosing a theme helps simplify your planning and décor. We love the loose concept of an end-of-summer party, featuring all your summertime faves—from refreshing watermelon to cool popsicles. For decorations, go with a casual picnic theme, complete with red-and-white checkered tablecloths. Another theme idea is blue jeans and BBQ (no business casual allowed!). The casual attire is perfect for a summery cookout, and you can incorporate denim material in your décor. Last but not least, you can’t go wrong with a red, white and blue themed party for Labor Day.
3. Decorate: Decorations can match up with your theme, but there is no need to go overboard. Get a bouquet of your favorite flowers from a local farmer’s market to add a festive flourish to your tables. Instead of stressing about an elaborate centerpiece, don’t forget to plan the more practical items, such as seating. If you are short on outdoor seating, end-of-season sales are the perfect time to add to your patio collection. However, you should shop early for the best selection, as many summer items are on sale and sell out quickly.
4. Plan activities: A Labor Day party is the perfect time to (weather permitting, fingers crossed!) enjoy a long summer day out in the sun. Plan activities to give your guests something to do in-between drinks and the meal. Yard games, such as ladder ball, bean bag toss or croquet, are time-tested favorites. If your party will include kids, you can plan special activities just to keep them entertained…and their parents happy. An outdoor coloring and painting table or water balloons are sure to keep young guests’ attention.
5. Set the menu: While a Labor Day party is often synonymous with a cookout, it doesn’t mean you have to serve burgers and hotdogs. Show off your grilling prowess with a recipe made easy by The Big Green Egg, such as this one for Stuffed Caprese Chicken Sandwiches or Chicken and Shrimp Paella . For drinks, serve a selection of beer and wine, along with a signature cocktail. Not only can the cocktail play into your theme, but it simplifies the need to stock a full bar and mix drinks.

By setting your theme, décor and menu ahead of time, you can relax and enjoy your Labor Day party!