Memorial Day BBQs: How to Keep Your Outdoor Event Pest-Free

Memorial Day is a significant holiday in the United States as it honors and remembers those who have lost their lives serving in the military. Many Americans celebrate this holiday by gathering with friends and family over a delicious BBQ meal. 

Hosting an outdoor event during Memorial Day weekend can quickly turn unpleasant if pests start to take over. In order to make sure your BBQ is enjoyable for everyone, it is essential to take the proper steps to keep pests at bay. 

From using natural scents to repel insects to strategically placing food and drinks, there are plenty of tips and tricks to ensure a pest-free event. By following the right guidelines, you can make the most of your Memorial Day BBQ and enjoy the company of your loved ones without any unwelcome guests. In this article, we will give you a few of those tips and tricks to help keep your Memorial Day weekend as pest-free as possible. 

Plan Your Menu Carefully

As we gear up for Memorial Day weekend, many of us are making plans for outdoor events and BBQs with friends and family. The last thing we want is for pesky insects to ruin our festivities. There are a few steps we can take to ensure a pest-free celebration while planning for meals. 

Sugary or fruity drinks tend to attract bees and wasps, so it’s best to avoid serving them  or consider alternate ways to serve them – like having lids for your cups to seal off the drink’s access for the bugs. You can also opt for natural fruit juices or essence ice water to quench your guests’ thirst. 

We know this next one is a no-brainer but keeping food covered when not in use is also an effective way to prevent insects from landing on it. This is especially important for sweet and sugary treats, which are known to attract ants and flies.

Another helpful tip is to serve dishes that repel pests. Garlic, onion, and herbs such as basil and rosemary are natural insect repellents that can keep flies and mosquitoes at bay. You can incorporate these ingredients into your dishes to not only add flavor but also keep the pests away. You can also consider setting up a separate table with insect repellent plants, such as marigolds or lavender, to keep bugs away from the main seating area.

Keep the Trash and Garbage Away

One of the easiest ways to keep the critters away is by keeping the trash and garbage away from the main seating area. Set up a designated trash area that’s away from where the guests will be eating and socializing, and cover the trash cans to prevent pests from getting inside.

Be sure to empty the trash cans frequently throughout the event to minimize any lingering smells. Avoid leaving any food scraps or used dishes lying around, as they can also attract unwanted pests.

Utilize Outdoor Lighting Strategically

Outdoor lighting can make a significant difference in keeping your Memorial Day BBQs pest-free. One option to consider is installing yellow bug lights, which are less attractive to insects than traditional white lights. It’s best to avoid using bright white bulbs, as they can actually attract pests. Another option to consider are citronella candles or torches, which can help repel mosquitoes. 

Provide Proper Seating and Eating Areas

Proper seating and eating areas are an essential part of hosting a pest-free Memorial Day BBQ. Using outdoor furniture with smooth surfaces that can be easily wiped down and cleaned will deter insects from lingering around food and guests. It is also important to position tables and chairs away from areas with bright lights or sources of heat that can attract bugs. 

Keep the seating and eating areas free of fallen food and spills that can attract pests. Also, using natural bug repellents such as lavender or peppermint plants can also be helpful to keep insects at bay. Tablecloths and placemats that are easy to clean should also be used. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your Memorial Day BBQ is a pest-free success.

Take Preemptive Measures Against Pests

When hosting a Memorial Day BBQ, there is nothing worse than pesky insects ruining the outdoor festivities. However, there are ways to take preemptive measures against pests and ensure a pest-free event. 

The most effective method is to hire a pest control professional to spray the area prior to the event, reducing the number of pests present. This proactive approach can significantly reduce the number of pests present, decreasing the likelihood of guests encountering irritating or even potentially dangerous pests like mosquitoes or wasps. With the help of a professional, you can ensure your outdoor event is pest-free and a great time for everyone.

Natural pest repellents such as essential oils, garlic, or vinegar can also be used to deter pests from the event area. It’s important to keep the event area clean and free of standing water or debris that could attract pests. Setting up fly traps or sticky strips can catch flying insects and prevent them from landing on food and surfaces. 

Encouraging guests to wear long sleeves and pants can also protect themselves from insect bites, and providing insect repellent sprays or lotions can offer an extra layer of protection. By implementing these preemptive measures, you can ensure a pleasant and pest-free outdoor event.

Having a Pest-Free Memorial Day BBQ

Memorial Day is an excellent opportunity to reunite with friends and family and celebrate the selfless service given by our fallen heroes. However, no one wants their summertime fun ruined by pests invading their outdoor area. It’s important to be aware of the potential threats and have a plan in place for preventing any visitors you weren’t expecting. 

By strategically planning your menu and seating placement, keeping trash away from the premises, using outdoor lighting safely, and even taking preemptive measures against pests, you can make sure your Memorial Day BBQ is enjoyable for everyone. If you are still concerned about potential pest issues and need professional help, please contact Procor Pest Control – We can handle any kind of pest problem!