If you already have a fire pit, then you’re undoubtedly aware of just how useful and fun they can be. From cooking to keeping warm on those chilly evenings, there are many different ways to use your fire pit.
But do you know about all the other uses for your fire pit? Some of these uses aren’t even given a second thought. If you’re looking to get more out of your fire pit, keep reading to learn about all the other uses for a fire pit besides cooking:
1) Warmth
The most obvious use for a fire pit is warmth. Whether it’s to heat up a cold night or just keep your guests warm, it can accomplish this task with ease. It doesn’t matter where you live (aesthetically or climate-wise), if you have a fire pit, then you can use it to help ward off the chill in the air.
2) Light
Another great thing about fires is that they provide light. While this alone is not only great for creating a relaxing ambiance, but also allows people to better see what they are doing after dark. You could get some solar-powered lights or candles, but nothing beats the look of an open flame.
3. Create ambiance
A simple way to spruce up an outdoor space is to add lighting elements like candles or string lights but a blazing fire takes things to an entirely new level. You can sit back and enjoy the light and heat at home or create a luxe campsite feel on an outdoor trip.
4. Entertain Guests
Whether you’re hosting friends or having a family gathering, propane or wood-burning fire pits can be the perfect addition to your entertainment space.
In addition to offering warmth and illumination, they also provide cozy seating that encourages people to stick around for conversation after dinner.
5. The Physical Draw of a Fire
There is something soothing and hypnotic about watching flames dance in a fire pit. It can attract people like moths to a flame. The sight of flames creates an inviting atmosphere that draws people together in conversation and sharing. As you sit around the pit, the low-level light and lack of distractions put everyone at ease and promote conversation.
6. Campfires
Whether you are camping in your backyard, at a state park, or just spending time outdoors, a fire pit provides much of the same enjoyment as an open campfire without some of the risks that can be associated with a bonfire. You do not have to worry about keeping wood at hand or gathering kindling to start it if you run out of fuel. All you need is the best propane fire pit to make this happen.
7. Keep Bugs Away
Smoke has been shown to prevent mosquitoes from approaching you; great news for those of us who are tired of being bitten during family gatherings.
If you are anything like me and enjoy spending time outdoors during the spring, summer, and fall months, then there’s nothing more annoying than being constantly bitten by bugs. Whether you’re trying to enjoy a family barbecue or just having a nice relaxing evening with friends, bugs are always there to ruin the fun.
But if you have a fire pit in your backyard or even better one on your deck or patio then you can use it for keeping those pesky bugs away from your gathering.
8. Share Stories Around a Fire
Just about everyone has fond memories of sitting around a campfire listening to stories or singing songs. If you don’t want to roast marshmallows, you can also make s’mores.
Best for Socialization
There’s nothing like sitting around a warm, crackling fire to bring people together for conversation. Invite some friends over for a conversation and cocktails around the fire; it’ll be the most relaxing night out you’ve had in years.
Relaxing: If you want to spend some time alone with your thoughts, there’s no better place than by the glow of the fire. Turn off all electronic devices and sit there in silence while gazing into the flames; it’s very calming.
9. Enjoy Outdoor Movies
If you have a projector and a movie screen, nothing beats having an outdoor movie theater. Watching movies outdoors is great on its own, but when it’s chilly out, having a roaring fire next to you makes it even better. Just be careful that the smoke doesn’t ruin your picture or audio quality.
10. Cooking
Instead of spending time inside in the kitchen, you can cook dinner outside using your fire pit. You’ll need to purchase skewers or other cooking tools that work well on an open flame, but then you’re ready to start cooking. You can even make smores for dessert at the same time.
Celebrate with s’mores and hot chocolate
A warm drink goes great with a cozy fire on a chilly night, so why not invite some friends over and enjoy the evening? Even if you don’t feel like hanging around the fire all night, it will still provide warmth while you visit with guests in your outdoor living space.
Roast Marshmallows
Roasting marshmallows over an open flame is a favorite pastime for many people. You can stick to roasting your favorite marshmallow flavor or try something new like peeps or pizza rolls. Just don’t forget the graham crackers and chocolate for s’mores.
Grilling Over Real Wood Is a Great Way to Add Flavor to Your Food
Most fire pits are designed with grilling in mind and include a grill grate that sits just above the flames. You can also add some wood chips or chunks to the fire to infuse your food with an additional smoky flavor. And because they’re easy to move, you can place your fire pit right next to your picnic table or prep area.
Making Soup or Stew
Soup and stew are the perfect meal for cooking over an open flame because you get plenty of heat over a longer period of time when cooking with soup or stew.