Every year, the days in September and October get shorter and colder again. Many barbecue fans ask themselves: Can I still grill outdoors in the cold season? The answer is a clear yes – winter BBQ is very much on trend!
In this article, we explain why grilling in winter is becoming more and more popular. We also share our best tips and ideas for a successful winter BBQ, including the right grills, from table grills to fire plates. Discover the joys of a winter barbecue and get inspired!
Why Winter BBQ Is Becoming More Popular
Winter BBQ as a Social Experience
Grilling in winter has a special appeal. It brings people together cosily despite the cold and the dark. Everyone gathers around the warming fire. The crackle of the burning grill and the tempting smell of the food create a unique atmosphere. Spending sociable hours at the grill with your loved ones is something you should definitely try. You will notice how a winter BBQ literally brings everyone closer together.
A Special Atmosphere of Fire and Frost
The combination of a crackling fire, rising smoke and biting cold creates a mood you can only experience when grilling in winter. The fascinating contrast between the heat of the grill and the cold surroundings makes the barbecue experience truly special. Especially when it snows and over the Christmas holidays, an almost magical winter BBQ atmosphere emerges!
Winter BBQ Is Very Much on Trend
In recent years, there has been a real hype around winter barbecues. In Germany, the local beer brand Krostitzer has been hosting a big winter grilling competition for many years. Smaller towns such as Mülheim an der Ruhr are also discovering the potential of winter BBQ events for their town marketing. Events like these naturally fuel the trend even further.
Year-Round Grilling Instead of a Seasonal Break
Many barbecue fans don’t want to miss out on grilled meat or vegetables in winter. And why should they? With the right grills, such as our fire plates, and a little preparation, you can easily enjoy grilling in the cold season too. As a grill fan, you can indulge in your favourite hobby all year round. Enjoy the freedom to celebrate a delicious barbecue whenever you like!
General Tips for Your Winter BBQ
Respect Your Neighbours and Local Rules
If you are planning a barbecue in winter, let your neighbours know or, even better, invite them. After all, the smell of fire makes some people quite nervous. Not everyone expects a barbecue party next door in December – they might think something is on fire.
You should also keep the volume of music and guests down in the late evening. In Germany, quiet hours usually start at 10 pm; check the rules that apply where you live. Barbecuing on a balcony, for example, is subject to clear legal rules in Germany shaped by many court rulings. The same applies to grilling in winter.
A Roof Over Your Heads
A barbecue gazebo gives your guests ideal protection from rain, snow and cold in winter. This makes it easy to grill outdoors even in winter, and you can carry on grilling without stress even when it rains. Under the gazebo, everyone can gather cosily with a mug of mulled wine while, ideally, white snowflakes fall. The roof not only keeps the grill dry, it also creates a sheltered space where you can spend the winter evening in a relaxed way.
A gazebo is also a practical shelter for guests who want to get some fresh air or smoke without being exposed to the weather. Make sure the gazebo is made of robust, fire-resistant material. Rust-free materials are also important. That way it offers protection not only in winter but also valuable shade in summer, making it a great addition for every season.
Plan the Food Around Your Guests
Not everyone likes everything. We recommend planning your barbecue food around your guests. For example, you can ask in advance in a WhatsApp group or in person who likes what. This helps you plan your shopping for the winter BBQ perfectly. Do you need more meat or fish? Steaks or sausages? Burgers or skewers? How many vegetables, side dishes and desserts? It’s best to ask about all of this if you don’t know your guests as well as your own family ;)
The Right Grills for Winter
To make your barbecue food especially tasty, you of course need a grill. Depending on how much space you have and how many people you want to grill for, there are plenty of options.
Table Grills – Compact Solutions for Smaller Groups
Small stainless steel table grills are space-saving and flexible grilling companions, ideal for a winter BBQ for two. They provide warmth and grilling space in a small area, so you can easily fire them up on balconies or smaller terraces. Enjoy cosy winter grilling with our bestseller: the Piccolo table grill.
High-Quality Gas Grills for Flexibility
Powerful gas grills offer you a wide range of uses, even at cooler temperatures. In addition to classic grilling, you can also prepare delicious stews, sauces or other warming dishes to keep your guests well fed.
A key advantage of a gas grill is that you only need to switch it on for a short time during a winter BBQ. However, without the campfire feeling, some of the charm is lost.
Our Recommendation: A Fire Plate for Getting Together
Grilling in winter with charcoal or firewood creates a special atmosphere thanks to the warm, natural light and the crackling flames that make the evening cosier. The open fire of the fire plate also produces a smoky aroma that gives the food a more intense flavour. That’s something gas grills simply can’t offer.
Traditional grilling on the fire plate connects you with nature and invites everyone to gather around the fire. Preparing the food becomes an experience that brings guests together. Everyone can cook their own food just the way they like it, because everyone can stand around the fire plate together and chat.
While a gas grill is functional and fast, grilling over fire brings a natural sense of relaxation to the evening. Especially in the darkness of winter, the light of the fire also creates unforgettable moments at the fire pit.
Tip: Special Covers to Protect Against Cold and Wind
With high-quality grill covers, you protect your grill from wind and weather and keep precious heat in better. This means you can grill outdoors even in snow and ice without damaging your equipment. Invest in a sturdy winter cover and enjoy carefree grilling even in freezing temperatures!
Fiery Ideas for a Winter BBQ Party
Inventive Barbecue Dishes for the Cold Season
A winter BBQ lets you get really creative. Alongside classics such as tender steaks, juicy bratwurst or crispy grilled chicken, hearty stews, baked potatoes or warm desserts such as Kaiserschmarrn are perfect for your winter barbecue. Don’t forget salads and side dishes when planning, either. Seasonal ingredients such as cinnamon or mandarins might also inspire new culinary experiments.
Decoration Ideas for an Atmospheric Winter BBQ Party
With festive table decorations, you can set the perfect stage for your winter BBQ. These decoration ideas create the perfect atmosphere for grilling in winter:
- Warm light: candles / tea lights or bamboo torches
- Patio heaters or lanterns
- Fir branches and wintry accessories such as snowflakes
- Atmospheric fairy lights (colourful or twinkling, if you like)
- Napkins with matching winter motifs
All these details create a cosy atmosphere and round off your winter barbecue visually. But there’s one thing no party can do without:
Delicious Drinks with a Winter Touch
Hot drinks such as warming mulled wine, aromatic punch or Feuerzangenbowle are ideal companions for your winter BBQ. For the youngest family members, you can make a sweet children’s punch. It warms you from the inside and is perfect for the cold season. Coffee, tea or hot chocolate with marshmallows are also tasty options – but rather as a companion to dessert!
Grilling in Winter Is an Experience
Let yourself be captivated by winter BBQ and discover the joy of grilling in every season! With the right equipment, tasty recipe ideas and atmospheric decorations, your winter barbecue is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience. Use our tips and start your own winter grilling adventure soon. We wish you lots of fun and enjoyable moments with your loved ones at the crackling winter grill – ideally, of course, from Remundi!
