How to Turn Your Backyard into a Summer Getaway

Staycation BBQ

Summer doesn’t always mean boarding planes, hitting highways, or spending thousands of dollars. Sometimes, the most meaningful experiences are created right in your own backyard—with the people you love, some good tunes, and the unmistakable aroma of BBQ in the air. At Big Poppa Smokers, we believe BBQ is more than just a meal. It’s a celebration of connection, a memory in the making, and a story you’ll tell long after the grill has cooled down.

And let’s be honest: Dads, we know the pressure is on. You want to give your family a summer to remember, but you also want to stay grounded, be present, and make it count. That’s what this Staycation BBQ is all about. You don't need plane tickets—you need a pair of tongs, a solid cut of meat, and a little imagination.

Where the Experience Begins

Kick off the staycation by piling into the car and heading somewhere special—your local butcher shop. Bring the kids. Let them point out different cuts, ask questions, and get curious. It’s not just about the meat; it’s about starting a conversation with the people behind the counter. They know what’s fresh. They know what smokes well. And if you ask, they probably know Big Poppa too.

Make it a tradition. Let your kids pick out their “signature meat.” Maybe your son gravitates toward ribs. Maybe your daughter wants to try her hand at skirt steak tacos. Now you’ve got a family experience before the grill is even hot.

Back at Home: The Setup That Sets the Tone

Transforming your backyard into a summer getaway isn’t about luxury—it’s about intention. A few string lights. A tablecloth that doesn’t blow away. Grill grates that are clean and ready for action. Add in some lawn chairs and a Bluetooth speaker, and suddenly your space becomes the hub of summer joy.

Invest in quality grill accessories—like heat-resistant gloves, a reliable meat thermometer, and durable tongs. If you haven’t upgraded your grill grates, now is the time. The right surface not only ensures even sear marks but helps retain flavor and prevent sticking. Your grill is your stage. Make sure it’s dressed for the show.

Cooking Together, Eating Together

This isn’t a solo performance—it’s a family affair. Let the kids help with seasoning, flipping, even prepping toppings. And don’t be afraid to experiment with the meal itself.

Try Something New This Time:

• Sheet Pan Bun Taco Burger
• Cinnamon Roll Smash Burger 
• Burnt End Flatbread Pizza
• Big Poppa's Monster Burger

And here’s a fun twist: host a Burger Making Contest. Let each family member build their ultimate burger masterpiece—from buns and sauces to rubs and toppings. If your kids are old enough (or you can supervise), get them involved on the griddle or grill. Then do a taste-test and crown the Backyard Burger Champion. Bonus points if you give them a trophy made of foil or a spatula of honor!

Don’t just throw meat on the grill—build an experience. Let your kids name the dishes. Make a menu. Light candles. Play some corny 80s summer hits. You’re not just feeding your family—you’re giving them a summer chapter they’ll never forget.

Beyond the Backyard

Want to stretch the staycation a little further? Stop by your local BBQ specialty store. Wander the aisles. Smell the wood chunks. Feel the different tools in your hands. Ask the staff what they’re cooking this weekend and, of course, ask if they carry Big Poppa products. Chances are, they’ve got a story to tell—and so do you.

The more your family sees BBQ not as a chore, but as a craft, the more you open the door to meaningful traditions. Whether it’s your kid’s first time lighting a charcoal chimney or your spouse finally nailing the potato salad recipe, these are the wins that make summer great.

The Hero Moment

You stand behind the grill, tongs in one hand, drink in the other. The sun’s setting. The grill grates are sizzling. Your kids are dancing barefoot on the lawn. That’s the moment. It’s not about perfection. It’s about presence. You showed up. You made this.

And that’s what Big Poppa stands for. We’re here for the ones who cook with heart, who season with soul, and who know that food is just the start of something bigger.

So grill proud. Tell your story through smoke. And remember, it’s not just a staycation—it’s your family’s summer highlight reel.

Big Poppa Picks for the Ultimate Backyard BBQ

• Little Louie’s  – Perfect base for seasoning everything
• Desert Gold – Bright citrus for chicken, fish, and veggies
• Sweet Money Rub – A must-have for pork, chicken, and griddled burgers
• Double Secret Steak Seasoning – Buttery, bold, and beef-approved
• DIY Drum Smoker Kit – Build it together, use it forever
• High-Performance Grill Grates – Even heat, killer marks, and durability
• BBQ Accessories – Tongs, gloves, thermometers, and all the tools that make you look like a pro

Explore all gear and flavors here

This summer, you don’t have to go anywhere to go all in. Light the fire. Set the table. Share the stories. Invite the people who matter. Let the food do what it was meant to do: bring you together.

With Big Poppa Smokers, you’re not just cooking—you’re creating. One backyard memory at a time.

Big Poppa’s got you.

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FAQ: Staycation BBQ Edition

What’s the best meat to cook on a staycation BBQ?

Go with what your family loves! Try versatile cuts like tri-tip, pork shoulder, or even chicken wings. Pair it with a signature rub like Sweet Money.

How do I get my kids more involved?

Let them pick the meat, season it, and even help with grilling under supervision. Involve them in the shopping and setup too!

What accessories make a big difference?

Upgrade your grill grates for better heat distribution and sear. Add heat-resistant gloves, precision tongs, and a reliable digital thermometer.

How do I keep things feeling fresh if we grill often?

Switch up the theme: taco night, pizza night, kebab night. Visit your butcher shop or try new rub/sauce combos to keep it fun.

Can I turn this into a regular family tradition?

Absolutely! Weekly grill nights, Sunday staycations, or Friday burger battles can build family connection and create long-term memories.