How to Make Your Summer BBQ More Accessible

Nothing says summer like firing up the grill and gathering with friends and family for a BBQ or picnic. These outdoor events are a great way to unwind, connect and celebrate the season. But for guests with disabilities, navigating uneven ground, limited seating or inaccessible restrooms can turn a fun event into a frustrating one.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or a community-wide picnic, a little planning goes a long way in making sure everyone feels welcome and comfortable. Here are a few ways to make sure your summer gathering is inclusive for all.

1. Choose an Accessible Location

If you’re hosting at home, take a look at your outdoor space. Is there a step-free entrance? Can a wheelchair or walker move freely through your yard or patio? If you’re planning a larger event at a park or venue, look for locations that offer:

Paved walkways
Accessible parking
ADA-compliant restrooms
Shaded seating areas
Accessible picnic tables

Tip: Contact your local parks department ahead of time to confirm accessibility features.

2. Think Through Seating & Tables

Provide a variety of seating options with arm and back support for those with limited mobility, and keep spaces open at tables for wheelchair users to roll up comfortably. Adjustable-height tables or portable folding tables can be helpful for creating flexibility.

Tip: Keep the area around tables clear of clutter and avoid using picnic benches that require stepping over seats to sit down.

3. Keep Paths Clear and Terrain Manageable

Grassy lawns can be difficult for some mobility devices. If you’re hosting on grass, consider placing temporary mats or pathways using rubber tiles, plywood, or outdoor rugs to create smooth routes to key areas like food and restrooms.

4. Serve Food That’s Easy for Everyone

Buffet-style setups can be tricky for guests with mobility or vision challenges. To make it easier:

Keep food tables at an accessible height
Have volunteers or friends available to help carry plates
Offer a variety of dietary options (vegetarian, gluten-free, etc.)

Tip: Use popsicle sticks to mark ingredients for those with allergies or dietary restrictions.

5. Be Mindful of Heat and Hydration

Hot summer days can pose risks for people with disabilities, especially those who have trouble regulating body temperature. Offer plenty of shaded seating, set up fans and have cold drinks available in multiple places around the yard or park.

6. Make Activities Accessible

Whether you’re planning games, music or crafts, make sure your activities can be enjoyed by all. Adaptive games like cornhole with raised platforms, oversized lawn games, or trivia can be fun for everyone. If you’re hiring entertainment, ask if they’ve performed at inclusive events before.

7. Invite Input

When in doubt, ask! If you’re inviting someone who uses a wheelchair or has other accessibility needs, check in ahead of time: “Is there anything I can do to make the space more comfortable for you?”

That simple question can mean a lot and give you important insight.

8. Keep an Inclusive Mindset

Inclusivity isn’t just about physical space, it’s also about attitude and encouraging a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued. If kids are present, use the opportunity to teach them about different types of mobility devices in a positive, respectful way.

An inclusive BBQ or picnic doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little extra thought and a spirit of hospitality, you can create a summer gathering where everyone shares in the food, fun, and friendship—because accessibility is always in season.

Need an accessible van for your next gathering or summer getaway?

MobilityWorks offers rental vans and travel support so you can focus on the fun, not the logistics. Learn more about rentals ›