Hey there! Planning to celebrate Labor Day with a bang this year? If you’re in or near Old Lyme, Connecticut, you’re in luck. This charming coastal town offers a fantastic backdrop for your Labor Day BBQ party. Picture this: warm summer air, friendly faces, and smoky, mouthwatering food sizzling on the grill. If you want your BBQ party to be the talk of the town, here are some fun, tasty, and easy ideas to get you started.
Why Have a Labor Day BBQ in Old Lyme?
Old Lyme is a great place to gather with family and friends during the long weekend. With its beautiful waterfront, friendly neighborhoods, and relaxed vibe, it’s the perfect spot to fire up the grill. Plus, hosting your BBQ here encourages you to enjoy the outdoors, a must for those last moments of summer before fall takes over.
Now, onto the star of the show—the food!
Classic BBQ Burgers with a Twist
You can never go wrong with classic BBQ burgers. But why not spice things up this Labor Day? Grab some fresh ground beef, season it with garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper, and grill to juicy perfection. For a little extra kick, add a slice of sharp cheddar cheese and toss on some caramelized onions. Serve your burgers on soft buns with all the fixings—crispy lettuce, ripe tomato slices, and maybe a few pickles for crunch.
Want to keep your guests talking? Try a DIY burger bar where everyone gets to create their own patty masterpiece. You provide the toppings; they bring their creativity. It’s fun, interactive, and takes some pressure off the grill master.
Sweet and Spicy Apricot BBQ Chicken Thighs
Looking to add a sweet and spicy touch? Sweet and spicy apricot BBQ chicken thighs are your answer. The juicy, tender thighs soak up the apricot sauce that’s both fruity and fiery. Here’s a simple tip: combine apricot preserves, a splash of hot sauce, a bit of soy sauce, and minced garlic to make your marinade. Let the chicken marinate for at least an hour before grilling.
As the chicken cooks, the sauce caramelizes, creating a glossy, sticky coating that tastes incredible. Serve these with some corn on the cob and a fresh, tangy coleslaw for a perfect summer meal.
Baby Back Ribs with Spicy Peach BBQ Sauce
If ribs are more your style, you’ll want to try baby back ribs slathered in spicy peach BBQ sauce. Start by slow-cooking or baking the ribs to tender perfection, then finish them off on the grill to get that smoky char.
For the sauce, mix peach preserves with chili powder, cayenne pepper, a bit of vinegar, and some brown sugar. This combo gives you the perfect balance of sweet and heat, just right to make ribs finger-licking good. Your guests won’t be able to resist coming back for seconds!
Setting the Scene in Old Lyme
Hosting your BBQ party in Old Lyme means you get to enjoy long daylight hours thanks to the beautiful late summer sun. Pick a backyard with plenty of space or even set up near the water if you have access to a dock or a beachside area. Don’t forget comfortable seating and some cute string lights for when the sun goes down.
Encourage your guests to bring lawn games like cornhole or horseshoes. It’s a fantastic way to keep the party lively and friendly without any tech distractions. And hey, if you’re near the water, why not plan a little after-meal stroll along the shore? It’s a great way to digest and soak in the natural beauty Old Lyme has to offer.
Make Your Labor Day BBQ Memorable
With just a few simple ideas—juicy burgers, sweet and spicy chicken, and irresistible ribs—you’re set for a Labor Day BBQ party that’s as delicious as it is fun. Old Lyme provides the perfect place to host this gathering, letting you enjoy the last warmth of summer with good food and great company.
So why wait? Dust off that grill, pick up some fresh ingredients, and get ready to share a mouthwatering feast with your neighbors and friends. You’ll be making memories (and perhaps some new friends) right here in Old Lyme, CT.
Celebrate Labor Day in Old Lyme with Flavors That Bring Everyone Together!
There’s something special about sharing food outdoors, especially when it’s packed with flavor and made with care. By following these simple BBQ ideas, you’ll not only impress your guests but also get a taste of the warm community spirit Old Lyme is known for. Make this Labor Day weekend one to remember—good food, good people, and a great location all rolled into one perfect celebration.
Source: foodnetwork.com
