What you need for a village barbecue

What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Tips

• Plan around 250–350 g of meat or vegetarian barbecue food per adult, plus salads, bread and vegetables. Add about 10% extra if guests will be eating over several hours.
• Allow two to three drinks per person for the first hour, then one drink per person per hour. Chill drinks before guests arrive and keep extra stock in coolers.
• Count reusable plates, bowls, cups and cutlery against the final guest number, then add at least 10% spare. Include separate coffee cups for the coffee and tea station.
• Prepare one serving utensil for each salad, side dish and condiment, and use separate cutting boards and knives for raw meat and vegetables. Mark allergens before food is placed on the buffet.
• Check power and extension cords before setup, especially for coffee machines, kettles and lighting. Position barbecue grills away from tents, tables and queues, with a clear route around each grill.

Frequently asked questions

How much food do I need for a village barbecue?

Allow 250–350 g of meat or vegetarian barbecue food per adult, plus salads, bread and vegetables. For a long afternoon, add around 10% extra so late arrivals and larger appetites are covered.

How many drinks should I buy for a village barbecue?

Plan for two to three drinks per guest during the first hour, followed by one drink per person per hour. Buy or prepare extra water as well, particularly if the barbecue lasts more than three hours.

How many plates, cups and cutlery sets do I need?

Use the final guest count as the minimum and add 10% spare. For 50 guests, that means at least 55 plates, cups and cutlery sets, plus enough bowls and coffee cups for the planned service.

When should I chill the meat, salads and drinks?

Chill drinks before setup and keep meat and salads cold until they are needed. Check the cold storage on the day before the barbecue, then transfer food into coolers or cold storage before guests arrive.