The August Long Weekend is one of the highlights of summer. Whether you're spending it at the lake, relaxing in the backyard, or inviting friends and family over for an afternoon barbecue, good food tends to be at the centre of it all.
The best long weekend BBQ meals aren't necessarily the most complicated. They're the ones that let you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the people you're with. With a quality grill, fresh seasonal ingredients, and a few simple sides, you can create meals that feel special without adding extra stress to the day.
Looking for inspiration? Here are some of our favourite long weekend BBQ ideas.
1. Classic Burgers With a Gourmet Twist
There's a reason burgers remain one of the best BBQ meals for entertaining. They're easy to prepare, cook quickly, and can be customized for every guest.
Instead of sticking with the basics, elevate your burgers with toppings like:
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Caramelized onions
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Aged cheddar or smoked gouda
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Crispy bacon
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Grilled mushrooms
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Garlic aioli
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Fresh avocado
Offering a toppings station lets everyone build their own burger while making the meal feel a little more memorable.
2. Cedar Plank Salmon
For a lighter option, cedar plank salmon is perfect for summer entertaining. Cooking salmon on a cedar plank adds subtle smoky flavour while helping the fish stay moist and tender. Pair it with grilled asparagus, roasted potatoes, or a fresh garden salad for an easy meal that feels elegant without requiring much effort. It's also a great choice for guests who aren't looking for traditional barbecue fare.
3. Low and Slow BBQ Ribs
If you enjoy spending time around the grill, ribs are one of the most rewarding long weekend projects. Whether you're using a Big Green Egg or another charcoal grill, cooking ribs low and slow allows the meat to become tender while developing rich barbecue flavour.
Finish them with your favourite barbecue sauce and serve alongside classics like:
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Coleslaw
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Cornbread
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Potato salad
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Grilled corn
It's the kind of meal that encourages everyone to slow down and enjoy the afternoon.
4. BBQ Chicken With Seasonal Vegetables
Simple doesn't have to mean boring. Marinated chicken paired with seasonal vegetables is one of the easiest meals to prepare for a crowd. Peppers, zucchini, onions, mushrooms, and asparagus all grill beautifully and require very little preparation.
Using quality seasonings or barbecue rubs can completely change the flavour profile without adding complexity to the cooking process.
5. Grilled Flatbreads or Pizza
If you own a Big Green Egg, pizza night becomes an entirely different experience. Using a pizza stone, you can create crispy, wood-fired pizzas with toppings that suit every guest. It's interactive, fun, and perfect for families with kids. Flatbreads are another excellent option and can be topped with everything from grilled vegetables to prosciutto and fresh mozzarella.
6. Steak Night Done Right
A long weekend is the perfect excuse to cook something a little more special. Whether you prefer ribeye, New York strip, or sirloin, a quality steak paired with great seasoning and simple sides often creates one of the most memorable meals of the weekend.
Complete the menu with:
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Grilled potatoes
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Caesar salad
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Garlic bread
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Grilled vegetables
Sometimes the best BBQ meals are also the simplest.
7. Finish With Grilled Dessert
Dessert doesn't have to leave the grill. Fresh peaches, pineapple, or watermelon caramelize beautifully over direct heat and pair perfectly with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
For something a little more indulgent, try grilled pound cake topped with berries and fresh whipped cream. It's an easy way to end the evening while making the most of the grill.
Make Hosting Easy This Long Weekend
The best long weekend gatherings are usually the ones that feel relaxed. Great food, comfortable seating, and a welcoming outdoor space encourage people to linger long after dinner is over.
If you're preparing for barbecue season, having the right equipment makes entertaining even easier. A quality grill, reliable charcoal, flavourful seasonings, and comfortable outdoor furniture all help create an outdoor space people genuinely enjoy spending time in.
Whether you're planning a casual backyard barbecue or a full weekend at the lake, a little preparation goes a long way.
Get Ready for the Long Weekend at GP Home
Planning your August Long Weekend menu is only part of the equation. The right outdoor setup helps make hosting easier and more enjoyable from start to finish.
Browse GP Home Furniture's collection of outdoor cooking options, grilling accessories, charcoal, seasonings, and outdoor furniture online, or visit our showroom in Chilliwack to find everything you need for a memorable long weekend with family and friends.
