20 Must-Have Items That Guys Need For Summer Backyard Entertaining

We're half way through the summer now but that means you've still got plenty of time to prepare for summer parties or just enjoying the backyard for some summer fun. Backyard entertaining demands gear that performs when it matters most. Whether hosting weekend gatherings with the guys, planning family barbecues, or setting up the perfect outdoor space for watching the game, the right equipment transforms ordinary evenings into memorable experiences that keep everyone coming back. Here are some of our favorite picks for great gear that any guy would be happy to have in his arsenal this year.

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Smithey Set of 4 No. 6 Skillets

Small in size but mighty in function, the Smithey No. 6 skillet set brings restaurant-quality cooking to your outdoor kitchen setup.

Made in Charleston, South Carolina, these cast iron skillets feature Smithey's signature polished interior surface that creates a naturally non-stick cooking experience, making them ideal for preparing individual portions, appetizers, or side dishes during backyard gatherings. The compact 6-inch size allows for precise portion control and elegant presentation when entertaining, while the lifetime durability means they'll handle everything from searing steaks to baking cornbread for years of reliable performance.

South Chicago Packing Wagyu Beef Tallow Spray

Elevate your grilling game with this innovative 100% natural Wagyu beef tallow spray that delivers the rich flavor and perfect sear every serious griller demands. Not only is it great for adding an extra kick and visually making grilling more fun but it works great as a general-purpose cooking spray when we whipped up some grilled chocolate chip cookies as well.

The sprayable format eliminates the mess of traditional fats while providing precise application control, making it particularly valuable for grilling where exact fat placement can mean the difference between good and exceptional results. Whether searing steaks or grilling burgers for weekend parties, this premium cooking fat enhances flavors and helps achieve that coveted steakhouse-quality texture that will have your guests asking about your secret technique.

Incase you are wondering - beef tallow has a smoke point of about 400 degrees (nearly the same as standard vegetable oil but still lower than cooking with avocado oil) but it tastes soooooo good!

Corto La Padella High-Heat Cooking Oil

On the other side, for frying things up on the griddle or sauteing vegetables, La Padella represents a breakthrough in high-heat cooking oils, specifically engineered for grilling and griddle work that demands performance up to 475 degrees.

This precision-blended oil combines rice bran oil's superior smoke point with fresh extra virgin olive oil for flavor, completed with avocado and grapeseed oils for optimal cooking characteristics. The innovative bag-in-box packaging blocks light, air, and heat to maintain maximum freshness - a game-changer for serious outdoor cooks who understand that oil quality directly impacts flavor outcomes. Used by James Beard Award nominees and top restaurants nationwide, La Padella's low oil absorption properties deliver clean-tasting results while its superior viscosity ensures faster, more even pan coating than traditional oils.

Force of Nature Grill Master Box

The Force of Nature Grill Master Box delivers premium wild-caught and grass-fed meats specifically curated for grilling excellence.

This collection takes the guesswork out of sourcing high-quality proteins for backyard entertaining, providing restaurant-grade meats that consistently deliver superior flavor and texture. The convenience of having premium cuts delivered directly means more time focusing on technique and less time hunting for quality ingredients, while the sustainable sourcing aligns with values-driven purchasing decisions that many modern men prioritize.

We especially love the venison tomahawk steaks! 

Epson EF22 Portable Projector

The Epson EF22 transforms any backyard gathering into a premium entertainment experience with true laser-array projection technology that delivers stunning Full HD picture quality up to 150 inches.

This portable powerhouse combines 1,000 lumens of color and white brightness for clear viewing day or night. At the same time, the 360-degree swivel stand with tilt capability means you can project content on virtually any surface from siding to garage doors and easily aim the projector when you can't manage a directly head-on angle.

The built-in Google TV provides access to over 10,000 apps including Netflix and Disney+, eliminating the need for additional streaming devices, while EpiqSense technology automatically handles picture resize, focus, and alignment for effortless setup. The maintenance-free 20,000-hour laser light source means no lamp replacements ever, making this the ultimate portable entertainment solution for everything from outdoor movie nights with the family to streaming the big game during guys night gatherings.

Doori Outdoor Cooker

We have a great collection of grills in the backyard, but I'll admit that a Tandoor oven is now at the top of our list for things we need to get next.

The Doori Outdoor Cooker revolutionizes backyard grilling by combining traditional tandoor cooking principles with modern convenience and precision engineering. Reaching scorching temperatures up to 400°C (750°F), this innovative cooker delivers the bold, smoky flavors of skewered cooking without the constant attention traditional grilling demands. The patented design evenly disperses heat throughout the chamber while hot charcoal heats the skewers from within, cooking food from both inside and outside simultaneously for consistently perfect results. Six stainless steel skewers can each hold half a chicken, making it ideal for feeding groups efficiently, while the lightweight aluminum construction ensures excellent heat distribution and long-term durability for years of memorable outdoor cooking experiences.

Kenyon City Grill

This next grill we love because it answers the problem of what to do if you live in a condo or apartment building and don't have a nice outdoor area to grill in but hate sacrificing quality when shopping for a traditional electric grill.

Even for guys with nice backyards, the Kenyon City Grill solves the problem that many urban professional men face - waiting for traditional grills to heat up after a long work day. This electric grill reaches 550 degrees quickly and evenly, delivering the high-heat searing capability needed for restaurant-quality results without the wait time or restrictions that gas grills or charcoal grills have in multifamily buildings. The completely flame-free design means it works equally well indoors or outdoors, making it perfect for year-round entertaining or adding serious cooking capability to man caves and covered outdoor spaces where traditional grills aren't practical.

Frankly even for guys like me I'd love to try this one out for use in my garage this winter since I can still get my grill game going without worrying about shivering in the snow or smoking up the kitchen!

Snow Monkey Sake Remix Ready-to-Drink

Every backyard party needs some good drinks but I'm getting tired of traditional canned cocktails. The guys at Snow Monkey Sake Remix have too apparently and are working to bring a more sophisticated flavor to summer entertaining with ready-to-drink sake cocktails. These expertly crafted drinks provide an elevated alternative to standard beer offerings, perfect for impressing guests who appreciate quality and uniqueness in their drink choices. The convenience factor makes them ideal for poolside gatherings, camping trips, or any outdoor entertaining situation where you want to serve something special without the complexity of a full bar setup.

 Plus, they are gluten free, vegan, and sulfite-free for a clean buzz made with American sake.

Ninja SLUSHi Frozen Drink Machine

Ninka continues to be one of our favorite brands and the Ninja SLUSHi with RapidChill Technology is ready to transform any backyard gathering into a premium daiquri bar experience by creating restaurant-quality frozen drinks without the hassle of needing a blender.

This innovative slush machine uses RapidChill Technology to freeze liquids evenly while maintaining optimal texture, turning everything from wine and coffee to juice and cocktail mixes into smooth, flavorful frozen drinks in 15-60 minutes. However, it is limited to no more than 16% alcohol - but that's still a wickedly strong frozen margarita!

Five preset programs handle the technical work while temperature controls let you customize thickness to personal preference, making it effortless to serve professional-grade margaritas, frappés, and custom creations that will have guests questioning your secret bartending skills. The 88-ounce capacity handles group entertaining while keeping drinks frozen for up to 12 hours, ensuring the party momentum never slows down.

GCI Outdoor Comfort Pro Rocker XL

The GCI Outdoor Comfort Pro Rocker XL provides the relaxation and comfort that every outdoor space needs for extended entertaining sessions. This oversized rocker combines the gentle motion that promotes relaxation with the durability required for regular outdoor use, creating seating that encourages guests to settle in and stay longer. The tall backrest and wide seating area accommodate larger frames comfortably, while the portable design allows for flexible seating arrangements that adapt to different group sizes and activities throughout the entertaining season.

Supports up to 300 pounds and has a nice wide seat so it's good for bigger guys too!

Pickytarian Premium Disposable Dinnerware

Pickytarian transforms outdoor dining with beautifully designed disposable dinnerware that delivers elegance without the cleanup hassle, while also being sustainably designed and dishwasher safe.

These eye-catching, vibrant designs elevate any gathering from casual barbecue to sophisticated outdoor dinner party, providing the visual impact that sets your entertaining apart from standard paper plate affairs. Made from sustainable bamboo and sugarcane pulp, these sturdy yet compostable plates handle everything from loaded burgers to saucy ribs while maintaining their structural integrity and premium appearance throughout the meal. Perfect for summer occasions where reusable dishes create logistical nightmares - poolside parties, beach houses, picnics, or large gatherings where washing dishes would consume valuable social time - Pickytarian proves that disposable doesn't mean compromising on style or environmental responsibility. Also available on Amazon

Rocksteady Stadium Speakers

Now, it's time to pump up the tunes with these Rocksteady Stadium speakers that deliver concert-quality audio performance designed specifically for outdoor environments where standard speakers fail to provide adequate coverage or durability. These portable speaker and subwoofer systems handle the acoustic challenges of open-air spaces while maintaining crystal-clear sound quality at any volume level, making them essential for creating the right atmosphere, whether hosting small gatherings or larger parties. The rugged construction and powerful output ensure consistent performance through multiple seasons of outdoor use.

Govee Smart Outdoor String Lights

The Govee Smart Outdoor String Lights 2 elevate backyard ambiance with smart technology that adapts to any entertaining scenario.

This 144-foot system delivers up to 100 lumens per bulb with RGBICW technology, allowing each LED to display different colors while maintaining the warm 2700K temperature that creates inviting outdoor atmospheres. The Govee Home app provides complete control over 47 scene modes and 16 million color options, while Alexa and Google Assistant integration means you can adjust lighting without leaving conversations or abandoning the grill. The music sync mode transforms outdoor spaces into dynamic entertainment venues that pulse with your playlist, while the shatterproof, IP65 waterproof design withstands everything from summer storms to winter storage, ensuring 25,000 hours of reliable performance.

LumiCup Aluminum Cold Cups

LumiCup represents a significant upgrade from standard disposable cups with its sleek aluminum construction that's both 100% recyclable and incredibly lightweight for extended outdoor use.

These single-use cups eliminate the hassle of cleaning glassware after large gatherings while providing a premium appearance that maintains the elevated experience guests expect. The aluminum construction keeps beverages colder longer than plastic alternatives and adds a sophisticated touch to casual outdoor entertaining that bridges the gap between convenience and quality presentation.

Additionally, for special occasions like bachelor parties, you can even get them custom-engraved. 

Permasteel 120-Qt Rolling Ice Chest

The Permasteel 120-Qt Rolling Ice Chest combines massive storage capacity with mobility and style to become the perfect gathering point for thirsty men.

This 120-quart powerhouse holds 150-185 cans depending on ice preference while maintaining drinks at optimal temperature for up to 36 hours, ensuring your entertaining never runs dry. The farmhouse-inspired design with classic white and black styling complements any outdoor décor, while two included dividers create three organized compartments or convert to flat serving surfaces for food and drinks. Four sturdy swivel caster wheels with locking capability provide effortless mobility around your outdoor space, while convenient handles ensure easy positioning whether you're setting up for an intimate gathering or accommodating a crowd that demands serious beverage logistics.

Curonian Memel Fire Pit

The Curonian Memel Fire Pit extends entertaining hours well into the evening, creating a natural gathering point that transforms outdoor spaces into year-round entertainment destinations. When the sun sets and conversation shifts from dinner to relaxation mode, a quality fire pit becomes the centerpiece that keeps groups engaged and comfortable. The Memel's design balances safety, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, providing reliable heat output while adding a sophisticated focal point that enhances property value and creates lasting memories around the flames.

MEATER Pro XL Smart Cooking Thermometer

The MEATER Pro XL eliminates the guesswork from grilling with advanced wireless monitoring technology that ensures perfect results every time. This smart cooking tool provides real-time temperature data directly to your smartphone, allowing freedom to socialize with guests instead of constantly checking the grill. The extended range and enhanced accuracy make it particularly valuable for longer cooking sessions like smoking brisket or monitoring multiple cuts simultaneously, delivering the confidence that comes from knowing exactly when food reaches optimal doneness.

Traeger Woodridge Elite Pellet Grill

The Traeger Woodridge Elite brings authentic wood-fired flavor to backyard cooking with the convenience and control that modern grilling demands. This pellet grill system provides precise temperature control for both low-and-slow smoking and high-heat grilling, making it versatile enough to handle everything from weekend brisket projects to quick weeknight dinners. The consistent results and set-it-and-forget-it operation allow hosts to focus on entertaining rather than constantly managing fire and temperature, while the wood-fired flavor profile elevates every meal into something memorable.

Belgard Elements Blue Diamond Kamado Grill

The Belgard Elements Blue Diamond Kamado combines the superior heat retention and versatility of ceramic construction with striking aesthetic appeal that makes it a centerpiece of any outdoor kitchen. This 22-inch kamado grill delivers exceptional temperature control for everything from pizza baking to long smoking sessions, while the distinctive blue diamond finish creates a sophisticated focal point that enhances the overall design of outdoor entertaining spaces. The ceramic construction provides unmatched heat efficiency and flavor development that serious grillers demand, making every meal an opportunity to showcase culinary skills.

XINPOINT Golf Practice Net

Finally, after all that grilling and drinking, you need something fun to do with the boys, so how about this XINPOINT 10x7ft Golf Practice Net, which transforms your backyard into a personal driving range that adds skill-based entertainment to any gathering while eliminating trips to the golf course for practice sessions. 

This complete training system includes everything needed for serious practice - hitting net, mat, targets, balls, and tee - making it perfect for improving your game or introducing guests to golf fundamentals during backyard gatherings. The robust 170g nylon and polyester mesh construction with fiberglass frame support handles high-impact shots while three precision targets help refine accuracy for chipping, pitching, and lob shots. Easy dome-tent-style assembly means you can set up impressive golf entertainment in minutes, while the included carry bag ensures convenient storage when the focus shifts from skills practice to grilling and socializing.

Are You Ready For Summer Entertaining And Guys Night In Events?

Quality outdoor entertaining gear represents an investment in creating experiences that bring people together and establish your space as the destination others remember. Professional-grade cooking tools, beverage service systems, lighting control, skill-based activities, and comfort features transform ordinary gatherings into events that build lasting relationships and create stories worth retelling.

These twenty essential pieces create a complete backyard entertainment ecosystem where guests enjoy everything from precision-cooked meals and craft beverages to challenging golf practice and cinematic experiences under smart lighting that adapts to the evening's mood. Whether hosting a guys night with bourbon and cigars around the fire pit or planning elaborate family celebrations, having professional equipment ready ensures every gathering exceeds expectations. When you invest in gear that performs consistently and looks impressive, you're building the foundation for years of memorable experiences with family and friends. Smart entertaining means having the right tools ready when opportunity calls, turning spontaneous invitations into legendary evenings that people request again and again.