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How to Host a Backyard Bonfire

Gather around the fire with friends and family this fall. We’ve got the tips you need for a rookie-, ranger- or master-level bonfire.

From an impromptu campfire to a blazing bonfire, gathering with friends and family when the temperature starts to drop is always a great time. It makes for an evening that both kids and adults will enjoy, no matter whether you’re a Rookie, Ranger or Pit Master.

Rookie Level

Host a casual, impromptu campfire with the kids or neighbors using the supplies you have on hand. Quickly build a fire with whatever scraps you have around the yard and house including sticks, newspapers or even empty paper towel rolls.

Dinner

Keep dinner easy with campfire staples like hotdogs. No buns? No problem! Use leftover bread and just go with the flow. Add any sides you have in the pantry like chips, crackers or veggies.

Dessert

S’mores are a must at any campfire. If you don’t have chocolate bars, try using chocolate chips, Nutella, or even peanut butter.

Drinks

If neighbors are joining you for the spontaneous party, encourage them to BYOB. Or set out whatever you have on hand and let guests serve themselves. As for kids, make them something a little special with chocolate milk or hot chocolate.

Décor

Folding chairs around the fire are enough to call this evening a success!

Ranger Level

Make the night a whole thing with good friends and delicious food. Take the evening up a notch with prepared food, drinks and even décor.

Dinner

Grilled cheese and chili make for a delicious and easy campfire dinner. Prep the chili before on the stove, then grill the sandwiches over the fire using a grate or pan. Serve the chili in Chinet Comfort® cups for easy eating and cleanup! If dinner has already been served before the fire starts, consider providing a snack bar for kids and adults to share. Set out snacks like pretzels, M&Ms and nuts along with Chinet Crystal® cups to mix them in.

Dessert

Take dessert to the next level with a summer classic. S’more Dip is a fun twist on classic s’mores that allows everyone to dig in at once. Chocolate and marshmallows melt over the fire to create a gooey dip that pairs perfectly with graham cracker sticks.

Drinks

When temperatures drop, nothing is better than a warm drink around the campfire. Serve hot chocolate or Chai-Spiced Apple Cider in Chinet Comfort® cups to keep drinks and guests warm.

Décor

Add a little extra to the ambiance with outdoor lighting—like string lights or tiki torches—and music.

Pit-Master Level

Plan for a night of bonfires, beverages and bonding. Whether it’s for a birthday party, a long overdue get-together or a holiday celebration, invite guests to join you for the evening.

Dinner

Go all out for dinner with a Bonfire Baked Potato Bar. Not only is it easy to set up and clean up, but it’s sure to please everyone. Simply wrap potatoes in foil and set them over the fire or in the hot coals. Then fill Chinet Crystal® cups with toppings like cheese, sour cream, avocado and bacon bits!

Dessert

Serve a truly fall-inspired dessert at your bonfire! Campfire Apple Crisp can easily be prepared in foil packets then served in Chinet Classic® 16oz bowls. Top it with whipped cream or ice cream to make it an extra sweet treat.

Drinks

Set up a drink station to make sure you have all your guests covered. Make sure to stock it with water, cocktails, and sodas. And don’t forget the ice!

Décor

In addition to music and lights, set the stage for a real bonfire night with hay bales, blankets and yard games. Cards, Jenga and cornhole are always crowd pleasers. Grab the guitar for a night that your friends and family will never forget.

Fuel your fire with these recipes and tips