BBQ Without the Buzzkill: How to Keep Flies, Ants & Wasps Away

Nothing says summer like a backyard BBQ: smoky grills, refreshing drinks, and the joy of being surrounded by friends and family. But just as you’re plating the burgers and pouring the lemonade, the buzz begins. Definitely not the good kind.

Flies, ants, and wasps are the uninvited guests that can turn a sunny day into a swatting frenzy. Luckily, with the right preparation and a few expert strategies, you can throw a pest-free party that’s all fun and no fuss.

Know Your Enemy: Why Summer BBQs Attract Pests

Pests love summer gatherings as much as we do, especially when food and drinks are in abundant supply. Your yard might already be a haven for them, thanks to the hidden nooks and the tempting leftovers they crave.

Common Pest Hangouts

Deck railings, grill covers, under patio furniture, and even cracks in your pavement are ideal hiding or nesting spots. Trash bins and compost containers are buffet lines for flies and ants, while overgrown shrubs or eaves can house early-stage wasp nests.

Depending on the pest, they’ll also be drawn to specific kinds of scents, smells, and tastes:

• Flies are especially drawn to meat, sweet drinks, and garbage.
• Ants follow sugary spills, crumbs, and anything sticky on your patio.
• Wasps are most aggressive in late summer and seek out both proteins and sugary beverages.

It’s important to note: flies are a source issue. Eliminating what attracts them (i.e., food waste, trash) is the only effective solution. They aren’t something a pest control professional can simply “spray away.”

Before the BBQ: Prep Your Yard

The key to a bug-free BBQ begins before the grill gets hot. A little yard prep can go a long way in making your space less appealing to pests.

• Start by mowing the lawn and trimming any overgrown hedges, especially those close to your gathering area. These can be prime nesting zones for wasps and hiding spots for ants.
• Remove any lingering food scraps, pet waste, or standing water around the yard. Rinse out trash bins and compost containers to eliminate odors that attract flies and ants.
• Check for early wasp nests under eaves, deck railings, or furniture. Seal cracks in patios and the siding of your home to block access points. Catching these issues early prevents a full-blown infestation later.

For an extra layer of protection that doesn’t leave pest prevention to the last minute, consider HomeGuard Premier, designed to proactively defend your property year-round from New England’s biggest culprits. It’s a shield that works—but if any of these pests make a return visit, we’ll be back to kick them out for good.

Party Day: Host Like a Pro

With your yard prepped, it’s time to think like a pest to stay one step ahead throughout your event.

Food & Drink Management

• Keep food covered with mesh lids or foil until serving.
• Use beverage dispensers with lids to keep wasps from diving into drinks.
• Set up a separate drink station away from the grill and dining area to redirect insect traffic.

Smart Trash Control

• Position trash and recycling bins far from where guests are congregating.
• Use bins with tight-fitting lids and double bag them to lock in odors.
• Clean up meat drippings, crumbs, and fallen food immediately, especially around the grill.

Bonus Tips for Creating an Anti-Pest Space

• Set up a fan near the food station. Moving air makes it difficult for flies to land and disrupt your feast.
• Strategically place citronella or eucalyptus candles around the patio. While not foolproof, they provide an additional layer of protection and ambiance.

After the Party: Don’t Leave an Invitation Behind

Pests love leftovers. That’s why your final step to a pest-free BBQ is a swift and thorough cleanup.

• Wipe down tables and surfaces, including patio furniture.
• Remove any food remnants and take trash out immediately.
• Rinse drink containers and bottles before placing them in the recycling.
• Pay extra attention to food prep areas, even small drips of sauce or crumbs can become a beacon for ants and flies.

Why Professional Pest Control Is Your Best BBQ Insurance

Citronella candles and household cleanup go a long way, but they don’t always cut it, especially when pest populations are well-established.

As a family of New England natives, our team understands the specific challenges that come with summer in the Northeast. Our Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach focuses on long-term prevention, using environmentally responsible methods that protect your home and your guests.

The Best Pest Control is Preventive

When you partner with Pest-End, you’re taking proactive steps to keep your yard protected, not just on BBQ Day, but all season long.

Don’t let pests ruin your party. Contact Pest-End today to learn more about your pest prevention options and enjoy a summer free from the buzzkill!

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