Tips for Hosting a Bonfire Party This Winter Season

With everyone cosying up around a large fire with hot drinks in hand, having BBQ or making s’mores, a bonfire party is a great way to enjoy the chilly winter season. 

Bonfires create a cosy and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for hosting a gathering with your friends and family. Graana.com has prepared a step-by-step guide below on how to hold a party for your loved ones and get the fire going.

 

How to Arrange a Bonfire Party

The following are some tips that you can check to prep your house this winter season before hosting a bonfire for your friends and family.

Check the Weather Forecast Beforehand

 

 

First, it is important to check the weather conditions to ensure that it is safe to build a fire. This includes checking for high winds, which can quickly spread the fire and cause it to get out of control, as well as checking for any fire warnings or bans that may be in place in your area.

To prepare, you should also have a plan in place for safely extinguishing the fire, including having fire-extinguishing materials on hand. This would ensure that the bonfire party is safe for everyone involved.

Find the Perfect Location

 

 

Look for a clear, flat area that is large enough to accommodate the bonfire and your guests. If you have a backyard, that’s an ideal place to set up your party. Just be sure to clear any debris or overhanging branches that could catch fire. If you don’t have a backyard, a local park or beach may also be a good option.

As mentioned above, it is important to consider the wind direction when choosing the location. If you’re in a windy area, you may want to build a windbreak using logs or large rocks to protect your bonfire. Just be sure to check with your local authorities to make sure bonfires are allowed in the area.

Gather Your Supplies

 

 

Once you have a location in mind, it’s time to gather your supplies. You’ll need firewood, matches or a lighter, and some kindling to get your bonfire started.

You would also want to bring chairs or blankets for your guests to sit on, as well as roasting sticks or skewers for roasting marshmallows or hot dogs.

Build the Bonfire

 

 

Once you have all your supplies, it’s time to build the bonfire. Start by creating a fire pit using large rocks or bricks to contain the fire. Then, create a small pyramid of firewood and kindling in the centre of the fire pit.

Use your matches or lighter to ignite the kindling, and carefully add more firewood as the fire grows. Be sure to keep a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergencies.

Add Some Ambience

 

 

One way to enhance the ambience of a bonfire party is to add some warm and inviting lighting. String lights or lanterns hung around the area can create a cosy atmosphere.

Candles, either on their own or placed inside decorative lanterns, can also add a decorative touch. You can also consider placing heating lamps in strategic spots around the bonfire to help your guests stay comfortable.

Proper Seating

 

 

Not only do comfortable and well-placed seats help ensure that your guests are comfortable and able to enjoy the party, but they can also help prevent accidents and injuries.

When choosing seating options for your bonfire party, consider the size of your guest list and the amount of space you have available. 

It is a good idea to have a mix of seating options, such as chairs, benches, and blankets or pillows on the ground, to accommodate a variety of preferences and needs.

Make sure to place the seats a safe distance away from the bonfire to prevent guests from getting too close and potentially getting hurt. 

Place a Barbeque Grill

 

 

It is important to choose the location of the barbeque grill as well since it should be a  safe and convenient spot for grilling food, while also allowing for easy access to the bonfire. If possible, choose a level and stable surface for the grill, such as a patio or deck, to prevent it from tipping over.

Make sure to place the grill a safe distance away from the bonfire, as well as any other flammable materials, to prevent the fire from spreading. 

Additionally, it is recommended to have a plan in place for safely extinguishing the grill if necessary. 

Roast Some Marshmallows

 

 

No bonfire party is complete without roasting marshmallows. Once the fire is nice and hot, grab a roasting stick or marshmallow skewer and toast some marshmallows over the flames.

You can enjoy them plain, or sandwich them between graham crackers and chocolate for a delicious s’more.

Obtain Necessary Permits

 

 

In many public areas, it is mandatory to obtain permits in order to have a bonfire party. These are intended to ensure that the bonfire is safe and does not pose a risk to the public or to nearby properties.

To obtain the necessary permits for your bonfire party, you will need to contact your local fire department or other local authorities.

In most cases, you will be required to fill out an application and provide some basic information about the location, size, and duration of your bonfire party. You may also be required to pay a fee for the permit.

Take Precautions When Lighting the Fire

 

 

It is important to take a few measures to ensure that the fire is safe and easy to control. First, choose a location for the bonfire that is away from buildings, trees, and other risky areas. Clear the area around the fire pit of any debris or dry leaves, and make sure that there is a ready supply of water nearby in case the fire needs to be extinguished.

To light the fire, begin by arranging the kindling in the centre of the fire pit in a teepee shape, with the smaller pieces of wood at the bottom and the larger ones on top.

Place newspapers or other flammable materials underneath the kindling, and then light it using a long-handled lighter or matches. Once the kindling is burning well, add larger logs to the fire, making sure to leave enough space between the logs for air to circulate.

Bonfire Games

 

 

In addition to providing food and seating, it is also a good idea to plan some fun bonfire games for your guests to enjoy. These can help liven up the party and provide entertainment for guests of all ages.

Some popular activities include roasting marshmallows or hot dogs over the fire, telling spooky stories, or playing flashlight tag. 

You can also get creative and come up with your own unique bonfire games, such as a scavenger hunt or a treasure hunt using glow sticks. 

Conclusion

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to hosting the perfect bonfire party this winter season. Just be sure to follow all local fire regulations to ensure a safe and fun event for all. You can also explore winter interior home decor to make your bonfire more memorable.

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