Backyard barbeques are standard fare for summer suppers, but try this to add some adventure to yours.


Instead of heading out the back door to fix up some 'que on your staycation, head out the front to the local park. Many city and county parks have barbeques; if they don't in your area, there are smaller barbeques that are ideal for taking with you. Don't stop with the barbeque, take advantage of your time off to stay out a little later -- like until after dark.

If it's safe and if local regulations allow it, stick around after dark for some post sunset fun and games. Here are some ideas for you:

Pick up some inexpensive flashlights (I'm partial to the inexpensive LED-based ones that don't use up batteries so quickly) and let the kids run around in the trees chasing each other. Night hikes are another great way to spend an evening -- everything looks different after dark.

Grab a glow-in-the-dark Frisbee to toss around after the sun goes down -- just be sure to leave it out to soak up some sun while you can. If your idea of fun is a bit rounder, you could also try a glow-in-the-dark football or basketball. I have to say, however, I would recommend passing on a light-up hackysack.

Lastly, look up. There's a lot going on in the night sky and it's always awe-inspiring if you just take a moment to look up. Even with all the light pollution here in San Francisco, there's plenty to see; if you can get out of town even just a wee bit, it's that much more impressive.

So there you go -- a few ways to make your summer barbeque more exiting. And while you've got the grill hot, cook up some extra chicken or steak for a picnic lunch or even dinner the next day or two.