Gathering Around the Fire Pit

If you sat around a campfire as a kid, having fun, bonding with friends and family, and making memories to last a lifetime, chances are you have a fire pit in the backyard. Fire pits are becoming increasingly popular for good reason. They provide heat and light for nighttime gatherings and encourage families and friends to gather, slow down, relax, and enjoy life, and you can use them year-round.

However, if you have a fire pit that sits unused most of the year, now might be a good time to try a few of our tips on how to make it the go-to hangout spot for your home.

Add Comfy Seating

First thing, ditch the stiff plastic chairs. Upgrade to cozy outdoor furniture like cushioned sectionals, Adirondack chairs, or even a few hammocks or swinging chairs to take your backyard lounging up a notch.

Set the Mood With String Lights

Fire pits are great at providing the flicker, but string lights can add a magical glow that turns your backyard into an enchanted realm. Wrap them around trees, string them overhead, or use lantern poles to create a canopy of light.

Add a S’Mores Bar

S’mores are a tradition for many kids, and while you can absolutely stick a marshmallow on a stick and hold it over the stovetop, legit smores have to be made over an open fire. Installing a s’mores bar with graham crackers, classic Hershey’s chocolate, peanut butter cups, cookies, flavored marshmallows, and even fresh fruit lets you take your s’mores game to a whole new level of taste and fun.

How About a Fire Pit Tabletop?

Not using flames right now? Cover it with a tabletop insert or tray and turn it into a coffee table for snacks and drinks. Some people even build custom wooden covers for their fire pit so it pulls double duty when it’s not lit.

Keep the Bugs Away

Nothing ruins a relaxing time in the outdoors like pesky flies, mosquitoes, and other insects. Add citronella candles, tiki torches with bug-repellant oil, or plant some mosquito-repelling greenery nearby, like lavender, basil, or lemongrass. A fan can be a handy way to keep bugs from hovering.

Add Some Tunes

Music makes gatherings more enjoyable, whether you want to rock out or relax and chill. Adding a waterproof Bluetooth speaker and creating a playlist with tunes that can make your time more enjoyable.

Cozy Up With Blankets and Rugs

Layering outdoor rugs under your fire pit setup defines the space and adds comfort. Keep a storage bin or basket nearby with cozy throw blankets so everyone can wrap up when the temperature drops.

Make it Game Time!

Bring out a few games like cornhole, giant Jenga, or cards if you’ve got a table nearby. For a more laid-back night, set up a trivia game, tell stories, or play “Would You Rather?” You don’t have to go full camp counselor, just keep it lighthearted and fun.

Embrace the Seasons

The great thing about owning a fire pit is that it doesn’t have to be a summer-only spot. In the fall, bring out the pumpkins and mulled cider. Winter, add fleece throws and roast chestnuts (or marshmallows). A little seasonal flair goes a long way in keeping the space fresh and useful.

Your fire pit can be so much more than a fire. It can be a centerpiece of your backyard, a reason to gather, and an excuse to unwind after a stressful week.

Step Up Your Fire Pit Game by Visiting Motown Fire

Motown Fire is the go-to fireplace and fire feature services company in the metro Detroit area. Visit our beautiful showroom at 50760 Metzen Dr, Chesterfield Twp, MI 48051, where you can see working fire pits and speak to our professional staff about which model is right for you.