Passionate football tailgaters already know that a grill is one of fall’s most vital accessories, but why should you limit yourself to cooking out just for the big game? If you’re looking for more excuses to fire up the grill this season, get out your calendar and prepare your cookout invitations for these seven grill-worthy events.
1. National Dessert Day (October 14)
You may think that celebrating a day of desserts without the use of an oven is unusual—but it’s actually a great way to put your creative cookout skills to the test. Grilled desserts add a new texture and flavor to classic treats. Try out Weber’s Fire-Roasted Strawberries Recipe found here. The grill company’s CEO Tom Koos even likes to bake chocolate chip cookies and angel food cake on the grill.
2. Presidential Debates (October 13, October 28 and November 14)
No matter your views, it’s hard to miss that it’s debate season. Gather together with friends and debate your own topics, like what’s the perfect way to cook ribs. Have each grill master explain why their method is the best and let the group vote on which technique they want to taste that night.
3. Baseball World Series (October 27 – November 4)
Give the legendary ballpark hot dog a run for its money by cooking your own to perfection. Invite friends over to cheer on their favorite teams as this year’s teams batter up for the championship.
4. Daylight Savings (November 1)
“Fall back” into your patio lounge chair and say goodbye to that additional hour of daylight in the cheeriest manner possible—around the grill with family and friends. Cheers to an extra hour added to your weekend and an extra hour of sleep!
5. World Championship Punkin’ Chunkin’ (November 7-8)
Before you rid your doorstep of Halloween pumpkin leftovers, put them to good use with an unlikely tradition. The World Championship Punkin Chunkin is held every year in Delaware, but you can easily have your own contest. If you have some open space and willing participants, it’s the perfect time to gather together with friends, grill some pumpkin and chunk the rest.
6. Thanksgiving (November 26)
Who says that your Thanksgiving turkey needs to be cooked in the oven? Put a spin on the traditional and smoke your turkey this year. As you gather around the table, your guests will look forward to the rich flavor that comes from a day’s worth of slow cooking to perfection.
7. College Football Rivalry Week (November 28)
Almost every Saturday is laden with opportunities to sport your alma mater’s jersey, but nothing measures up to the excitement of cheering on your team against your biggest college football rivals. Raise the stakes and invite friends from both teams over for a backyard tailgate. Start the competition early with your own games, like corn hole and ladder golf toss.
