How Do You Set Up a Bar for a Backyard Party?

How Do You Set Up a Bar for a Backyard Party?

Hosting a backyard party is a fun way to enjoy time with friends and family. Setting up a bar can make your party even better and more enjoyable. This guide will show you how to create a simple and effective backyard bar. We'll cover everything from picking the right spot and gathering supplies to decorating and keeping things running smoothly. Follow these steps to make sure your backyard bar is a hit at your next party!

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Step-by-Step Guide for Setting Up a Backyard Bar Area

Setting up a backyard bar can turn your outdoor space into a fun spot for hanging out with friends and family. Whether you're having a small get-together, a summer BBQ, or a party, a backyard bar can be the highlight of your events. Get ready to make your backyard the go-to place for all your gatherings!

 

Step 1: Plan Your Bar Area

  • Determine the Location: Choose a spot that’s easily accessible, level, and preferably sheltered from direct sunlight or rain. Consider proximity to your house for easy access to the kitchen.

  • Measure the Space: Know the dimensions of the area to help with planning the layout and buying the right size furniture and equipment.

 

Step 2: Design Your Bar

  • Style and Theme: Decide on a theme or style that complements your backyard décor, such as tropical, rustic, modern, or industrial.

  • Layout: Plan the layout, including where the bar counter, seating, storage, and decorative elements will go. Consider traffic flow and ensure there’s enough space for guests to move around comfortably.

 

Step 3: Choose and Install a Bar Counter

  • Bar Counter: Select a bar counter that suits your style and fits the space. It can be a premade outdoor bar unit, a DIY project using pallets or reclaimed wood, or even a sturdy outdoor table.

  • Height: Standard bar counter height is 42 inches. Make sure it’s comfortable for standing guests and for bar stools if you’re adding seating.

  • Assembly and Installation: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions if you’re using a premade unit or assemble your DIY bar counter securely. Anchor it to the ground if necessary for stability.

 

Step 4: Add Seating

  • Bar Stools: Choose bar stools that are weather-resistant and comfortable. Consider the height of the bar counter when selecting stools.

  • Additional Seating: If space allows, add more seating options like lounge chairs, benches, or a small dining set for larger gatherings.

 

Step 5: Stock the Bar

  • Beverages: Stock a variety of top shelf liquor, red and white wine, sparkling wine and non-alcoholic beverages (for guests who do not drink alcohol). Include popular spirits, mixers, soda, and juices for specific drinks.

  • Glassware: Have a selection of glassware such as wine glasses, martini glasses, beer mugs, highball glasses and lowball glasses, and cocktail glasses.

  • Bar Tools: Essential tools include a cocktail shaker, jigger, bottle opener, corkscrew, muddler, mixing spoon, strainer, and a cutting board with a knife.

  • Garnishes: Prepare garnishes like lemons, limes, oranges, cherries, olives, and mint.

 

Step 6: Organize and Store Supplies

  • Shelving and Cabinets: Install shelves or cabinets to store your bar supplies neatly. Use weatherproof materials to protect them from the elements.

  • Bins and Baskets: Use bins or baskets for smaller items like napkins, straws, stirrers, and bar towels.

  • Coolers and Ice Buckets: Have a cooler or ice bucket readily available to keep drinks chilled. Make sure there is enough ice.

 

Step 7: Install Lighting

  • Ambient Lighting: Use string lights, lanterns, or outdoor-safe lamps to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

  • Task Lighting: Ensure the bar counter is well-lit for mixing drinks. Under-counter lighting or small LED lights can be very effective.

 

Step 8: Decorate the Bar Area

  • Decor Elements: Add personal touches such as potted plants, outdoor rugs, and decorative signs.

  • Theme Decorations: Incorporate theme-specific decorations like tiki torches for a tropical theme or metal accents for an industrial look.

  • Menu Board: Create a menu board to display available drinks and any specialty cocktails.

 

How Big Should an Outdoor/Backyard Bar Be?

The size of an outdoor or backyard bar depends on several factors, including the available space, the number of guests you plan to host, and the features you want to include. Here are some general guidelines to help you determine the appropriate size for your backyard bar:

1. Available Space.Start by measuring the area where you plan to set up the bar. This will help you understand the maximum dimensions you can work with. Ensure there’s enough space around the bar for people to move comfortably. Don’t forget to account for existing features like trees, flower beds, and patios.

2. Number of Guests. If you usually host small gatherings (around 4-6 people), a compact bar about 4-6 feet long should suffice. For medium-sized gatherings (up to 12 people), a bar that’s 6-8 feet long is ideal. For larger events (more than 12 people), consider a bar that’s 8-12 feet long or more. You might also want to include additional seating areas nearby.

3. Bar Counter and Seating.The standard height for a bar counter is 42 inches. This height is comfortable for both standing guests and those seated on bar stools. A bar counter that’s 6-8 feet long typically provides enough space for 3-4 bar stools. Allow about 24 inches of width per stool for comfortable seating. A depth of 24 inches is standard for a bar counter, providing enough space for drinks and small plates.

4. Additional Features.If you want built-in storage for bottles, glassware, and tools, you’ll need to factor in extra space. Shelving or cabinets behind the bar will require additional depth. If you plan to include a sink, mini-fridge, or other appliances, make sure to allocate space for these. A standard mini-fridge is about 2 feet wide and 2 feet deep. Including a small prep area with a cutting board and space for mixing drinks can be very convenient. This typically requires an extra 1-2 feet of counter space.

5. Flow and Accessibility. Ensure there’s at least 3 feet of space behind the bar for the bartender (or yourself) to move around comfortably. Ensure there’s enough space in front of the bar for guests to stand, sit, and mingle. This area should be at least 4-5 feet wide.

Sample Layouts
  • Compact Bar: 4-6 feet long, 2 feet deep, with 2-3 bar stools.

  • Medium Bar: 6-8 feet long, 2 feet deep, with 3-4 bar stools and some storage.

  • Large Bar: 8-12 feet long, 2-3 feet deep, with 4-6 bar stools, storage, and space for a mini-fridge and sink.

 

Choose the Best Outdoor Bar for a Party at Your Backyard

Planning a backyard party can be a lot of fun, but picking the right outdoor bar can make your event even better. Whether you’re hosting a small get-together or a big celebration, having the right bar setup can make serving drinks easier and more enjoyable.

 

Wine and Beer Bar for a party

The Anderson Teak Altavista Outdoor Bar Set is praised as “the most beautiful and unique bar table set ever seen.” It's perfect for poolside gatherings and features a folding table top that expands to accommodate more guests. When not in use, the table and bar stools fold away for easy storage.

This set comfortably hosts 4-6 people and includes ample space for storing bottles and glasses. Made from solid teak, it's durable and weather-resistant, making it ideal for any outdoor event.

The set includes:

  • (1) Anderson Teak Altavista Folding Outdoor Bar Table: A 62” table that is easy to store and move. It comfortably seats 4-6 people and is made from premium A-Grade teak.

  • (3) Anderson Teak Altavista Folding Outdoor Bar Chairs: Made from kiln-dried, smooth-finished teak wood. These chairs fold easily for storage and can be paired with Sunbrella cushions for added comfort.

 

Mixed Drinks Bar for a Cocktail Party

The Anderson Teak Safari Outdoor Bar Table is a stylish and functional addition to your deck, porch, or patio. Made from solid A-Grade teak, it’s durable and weather-resistant, maintaining its beauty through rain, hail, or shine.

Features include:

  • Storage: 7 drawers, 1 storage area with doors, 3 rows of wine glass hangers, a bucket, and an aluminum sink.

  • Mobility: Equipped with 4 wheels with brakes for easy movement.

  • Conditioning: Can develop a patina grey over time or be cleaned with soap and water to stay pristine.

  • Shipping & Assembly: Comes in a flat pack carton box for efficient shipping and requires no assembly.

  • Material Quality: Made from genuine solid teak wood, naturally mildew and mold resistant, and kiln-dried to prevent shrinking and cracking.

 

Tiki Bar in Your Backyard

Add some island fun to your space with the Ram Game Room Bamboo Tiki Bar. It’s perfect for your patio, deck, or game room.

Features include:

  • Size & Style: 60 inches long with a natural bamboo finish for a classic tiki look.

  • Construction: Made from bamboo with a protective lacquer, making it durable for outdoor use.

  • Usage: Great for both outdoor and indoor use.

  • Storage: Two shelves for drinks and glasses.

  • Convenience: Built-in holders for hanging wine glasses.

  • Extras: Includes two torches for extra light and a festive touch.

This tiki bar is perfect for relaxing and entertaining, adding a fun and tropical feel to any space.


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