One of the most popular forms of home entertaining is the barbecue or cookout party. Barbecues can provide guests with great-tasting food and be a pleasant outdoor activity. It's an easy way to entertain that doesn't require a lot of cleanup afterwards. Whether you're grilling meat, poultry, seafood, or vegetables, food takes on a completely different character when cooked over wood, charcoal, or gas. Barbecues are appropriate for both small, intimate backyard parties, as well as large-scale entertaining for major events or corporate functions that you wish to hold in a casual setting. If you don't wish to do it yourself, or if it's a large function, most barbecue restaurants offer catering, usually in the form of a casual buffet. They can provide the food, serving equipment, utensils, and drinks, as well as servers and cleanup crew. They may even provide buffet and party tables. Don't forget to have contingency plans for bad weather, in case you need to move the party indoors. Entertainment can range from a band or DJ (D-J) for hire, or just your own CD's. Barbecues are also popular in places other than backyards, such as local parks, lakes, or beaches. The tailgate party is also a popular form of entertaining during football season. Keep the menu simple, and pack prepared food in disposable containers.
