There’s something about gathering around a fire that instantly makes summer nights feel more memorable. If you already have one, you know the magic. If you don’t yet, now’s the perfect time to add one to your outdoor space!
Activities for Around the Fire Pit That Make Summer Nights Even Better
1. Next-Level S’mores
Sure, classic s’mores are timeless. But why not switch things up with some creative combos? Try mixing in:
- Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups instead of plain chocolate
- Flavored graham crackers like cinnamon or chocolate
- Add fresh fruit slices like strawberries or bananas
- Swap marshmallows for flavored marshmallows (like caramel or chocolate swirl)
- Drizzle caramel or Nutella over your assembled s’more
Trust us, these upgrades make your fire pit treat something everyone will talk about long after the night’s over.
2. DIY Outdoor Movie Night Setup
Want to make your fire pit hangouts even more memorable? Turn your backyard into a cozy outdoor movie theater! Here’s how to set it up:
- Pick the right spot: Position your fire pit where everyone can gather comfortably and also see the screen clearly. Make sure seating faces the screen but keeps a safe distance from the fire.
- Get a screen: A simple white sheet, portable outdoor screen, or even a blank garage door works perfectly. Secure it well to avoid flapping in the breeze.
- Choose your projector: There are plenty of budget-friendly, portable projectors that connect to your phone, laptop, or streaming device. Make sure it has good brightness for outdoor use.
- Set up comfy seating: Arrange blankets, lawn chairs, bean bags, or cushions around the fire pit so everyone can relax.
- Lighting & sound: Keep string lights or lanterns on dim so they don’t wash out the screen. Use portable speakers or connect the projector to speakers for clear sound.
- Snack station: Keep popcorn, drinks, and those upgraded s’mores close by so no one misses a moment of the show.
With this setup, your fire pit movie nights will become the highlight of summer.
3. Fire Pit Game Night
Take your regular game night outdoors:
- Classic card games (Uno, Go Fish, you name it)
- Travel-size board games (Jenga, Connect 4, etc.)
- Verbal games like charades, “Would You Rather?”, or “20 Questions”
A fire naturally sets the mood for laid-back fun, and games are the perfect way to bring everyone together including kids, teens, and grownups too.
4. Music and Fire: A Perfect Match
Whether you’ve got a guitar, a speaker, or just a great playlist, music totally sets the tone. Bring your fire pit nights to life with:
- An acoustic jam session
- A backyard dance party (glow sticks encouraged!)
- A chill playlist to play while everyone’s roasting marshmallows
Want to make it even more fun? Let everyone pick a song to add to the night’s custom playlist.
Outdoor Fireplace Safety Tips
Before you start the fire, don’t forget the basics of outdoor fire safety:
- Use outdoor fireplaces and fire pits outdoors at least 10 feet away from your home or anything that can burn
- Use a metal screen over wood-burning fires to keep sparks from floating out
- Never leave the fire unattended and always extinguish it fully before heading out
Ready to Make Your Backyard the Summer Spot Everyone Wants to Be?
Thinking about giving your outdoor space a summer upgrade? We can help you get there. Visit our showroom or reach out to chat through ideas, and we’ll help you find the right fire pit or fireplace setup that fits your style and how you actually use your space.
Because the best summer nights usually end around a fire, and your perfect setup is just waiting to happen!
