Nothing beats the combination of crackling flames and good company under an open sky. Turn your next gathering of friends and family into a fire pit party that everyone will remember fondly.

There’s something undeniably cozy about gathering around a fire pit. Whether you’re hosting friends on a crisp spring evening or making the most of a clear summer night, a fire pit party is a relaxed, easygoing way to bring people together. Here are some simple but effective tips to help you host a great fire pit gathering with minimal stress and fuss.

1. Start with Safety

Safety might not be the most exciting part of party planning, but it is the most important. Your fire pit should be positioned on a level and non-flammable surface made up of stone, concrete, or gravel, and never right on grass or a wood deck. It should also be well away from overhanging trees and structures. Keep a hose or a bucket of sand or water nearby just in case as well.

2. Don’t Skimp on Seating

If you want your guests to hang out comfortably into the evening hours, then you need to make sure you offer enough seating for everyone. But there’s no need to splurge on a matching patio set. Mixed-and-matched seating like outdoor chairs, benches, and even some comfortable cushions will only add to the charm of the evening. Arrange your seating in a circle around the fire so that everyone can enjoy the warmth of the flames and the conversation.

3. Enhance the Ambiance

Once the fire is going, it will provide a lot of ambiance all on its own, but you can still enhance the atmosphere of your party with some extra lighting. While you want to avoid harsh overhead lighting, string lights or solar lanterns will add a warm glow and help illuminate the way when people are moving around.

4. Stick to Simple Snacks

There’s no need to prepare a fancy spread for a fire pit party. Instead, think casual and easy-to-eat finger foods like chips and dip, veggie trays, or charcuterie boards. Hot dogs or sausages that guests can roast themselves over the open flames are always sure to be a hit. And of course, don’t forget the s’mores!

5. Add Some Entertainment

Sitting around a fire pit naturally encourages conversation, but it’s always fun to add some extra activities to the mix as well. Card games are a great option, especially for adult gatherings. If your party is more of a family affair, then old-school lawn games like cornhole or ring toss are fun for kids and adults alike. And don’t forget the music! Just keep the volume low enough so people can still talk easily.

6. Prep for the Weather—and the Bugs!

Nothing ruins a night outside like being eaten alive by mosquitoes. Have some bug spray or citronella candles on hand. Make sure you keep an eye on the forecast as well, and consider rescheduling if a storm is set to arrive. However, for a light drizzle, even a tarp or a pop-up shelter can provide adequate coverage and keep the festivities going.

It really only takes a few key ingredients to make a fire pit party memorable. With a little planning and a focus on comfort, food, and safety, you can create an inviting space under the stars.