Bonfire Night Faves: What You Actually Need for a Perfect Summer Night Outdoors
There’s just something about a summer bonfire. The smoky air. The way the stars show off a little extra. The warm glow that makes everyone look like they’re falling in love — even if it’s just with the playlist.
Whether you’re planning a cozy backyard fire pit night or a full-on prairie-style gathering under the stars, here are my essentials for making it magical (without overcomplicating it).
🌿 The Vibe Setters
1. A Cozy Blanket or Two
Layer them up — one to sit on, one to wrap yourself in when the night air gets flirty.
→ My go-to wool blanket
2. String Lights or Lanterns
Nothing too bright — just enough glow to find your drink and your way back to the s’mores.
→ These Forest Lanterns
3. A Smoky-Sweet Cocktail
May I suggest the Smoky Peach Bourbon Smash? She’s fruity, fire-kissed, and goes down dangerously easy.
→ Insulated Pitcher
4. The Right Playlist
Think: acoustic strums, soft folk, a little grit and romance.
→ Bonfire Love on the Prairie playlist
🔥 The Practical Stuff (Still Cute Tho)
5. Firewood + Kindling
Dry wood = less smoke, more crackle. Bonus points for lavender or cedar bundles to toss in for scent.
→ Kindling starter
6. Bug Protection That Doesn’t Ruin the Mood
Citronella candles, sage bundles, or a natural spray that doesn’t smell like regret.
→ Bug Spray
→ Herbal citronella candle that’s actually cute
7. A Tray or Basket of Snacks
Cheese, chocolate, fruit, crackers. Think grazing board but make it rustic. (Mini skewers = less mess.)
→ This wood tray is my favorite
→ Enamel snack bowls you’ll use forever
8. Something Sweet to Roast
Classic marshmallows, or go extra with strawberries + chocolate in foil packs over the fire.
→ My go-to homemade marshmallows
→ S’mores skewers that won’t end up in the fire
✨ The Unexpected Touches
9. A Vintage Thermos of Warmed Mulled Cider or Spiked Chai
Because when the chill hits after sunset, a warm sip hits different.
→ My favorite vintage-look thermos
10. A Journal or Deck of Conversation Cards
For when the fire gets low and so does the chatter. Ask better questions, make real memories.
→ Cozy card deck for cultivating conversations
→ Rustic journal for firelight reflections