What to Do with a Fire Pit in the Summer: Creative Ways to Enjoy It Year-Round

When temperatures rise, many people assume their fire pit becomes obsolete until fall. But that’s a missed opportunity. Summer is actually one of the most versatile seasons to make use of your fire pit. With the right setup and a little creativity, a fire pit can be much more than a heat source—it can anchor unforgettable gatherings, outdoor cooking, and even act as a decorative centerpiece.

In this comprehensive guide, we explore how to get the most from your fire pit during summer, featuring SUNJOY's premium outdoor fire pit products and five key concepts for transforming your patio space into a warm-weather retreat.

Why Keep the Fire Pit Out in Summer?

While the idea of sitting around flames in the heat might seem counterintuitive, fire pits offer more than just warmth. They provide:

Ambiance: Firelight adds a soft, flickering glow perfect for evening entertaining.

Cooking utility: Roasting, grilling, or even making s’mores.

Visual appeal: Acts as a design focal point in your patio or garden.

Bug control: Smoke from burning wood can help keep mosquitoes away.

Gathering space: Fire pits naturally draw people together, no matter the season.

Let’s dig into the best ways to enjoy your fire pit this summer.

1. Host a Backyard Fire Pit Dinner

Take your outdoor entertaining game up a notch by turning your fire pit into a cooking station.

Recommended Product: SUNJOY 38-Inch Steel Wood-Burning Fire Pit with Adjustable Grill

This spacious round fire pit doubles as a grill thanks to its adjustable rack, making it ideal for summer BBQs.

Summer Cooking Ideas:

Grill kebabs, burgers, or vegetables directly over the flame

Heat up flatbreads or tortillas

Wrap potatoes or corn in foil and nestle them in the coals

Finish with toasted marshmallows or gourmet s’mores

Pro Tip: Set up a DIY taco or hot dog bar next to your fire pit for interactive fun.

2. Make it a S'mores & Stories Zone

Summer evenings are perfect for storytelling under the stars. A fire pit creates a cozy circle that brings friends and family together.

How to Set the Scene:

Arrange comfy seating around the fire

Keep a s’mores kit on standby: marshmallows, chocolate, graham crackers, and skewers

Add string lights above or lanterns around the perimeter

Place a SUNJOY outdoor cooler cart nearby for cold drinks

Bonus: Use the fire pit as a reason to get kids off screens and into face-to-face bonding time.

3. Add Fire to Your Poolside Vibes

Fire and water make a striking combination. Even if you’re not using your fire pit for heat, it still enhances the mood around your pool.

Pro Tip:

Place the fire pit near your SUNJOY floating pool gazebo or outdoor seating area

Use flame as a contrast to cool water and lighting

Roast marshmallows after a swim or enjoy drinks fireside while drying off

This gives your pool area a resort-like ambiance that’s ready for guests anytime.

4. Transform It into a Fire Pit Table

During the daytime, when the fire isn’t needed, a pit can act as a functional outdoor coffee table. Simply cover it with a decorative fire bowl lid or flat tray.

Ideas for Daytime Use:

Use as a spot for cocktails, snacks, or reading material

Decorate with a small plant, lantern, or bowl of lemons for summer flair

Set up a board game or cards for casual afternoons outside

With this dual function, your fire pit earns its place year-round.

5. Create a Movie Night Atmosphere

Set up a projector, hang a screen or use a blank wall, and gather around the fire pit for a magical open-air movie night.

Essentials:

Lawn chairs or bean bags

Cozy blankets (yes, even in summer!)

Popcorn, candy, and cool beverages from your SUNJOY 80-Quart Stainless Steel Cooler Cart

Bug zapper to keep mosquitoes away (try the SUNJOY Solar Bug Zapper with UV Light)

Add fairy lights and ambient background music for pre-show mingling.

Maintaining Your Fire Pit During the Summer

Even when used less frequently, your fire pit needs care:

Empty ash and clean the bowl regularly

Keep it covered when not in use

Check grill grates or propane attachments for wear

Keep a fire extinguisher or water source nearby for safety

SUNJOY’s fire pits are built to last, but smart maintenance extends their beauty and performance.

SUNJOY Fire Pit Picks for Summer

1. SUNJOY 38 Inch Stainless Steel Smokeless Fire Pit

Perfect for gathering, and nighttime ambiance. Includes PVC cover and fire poker.

2. SUNJOY 38-Inch Propane Fire Pit Table with Lava Rocks

Ideal for smoke-free entertaining. Stylish design doubles as a table with a modern edge.

3. SUNJOY 18 Inch Wood Burning Steel Fire Pit with Lid and Fire Poker

Compact and travel-friendly. Great for beach nights, camping, or spontaneous backyard hangs.

Safety Tips for Summer Use

Avoid lighting fires during windy conditions

Always supervise children and pets around the fire

Keep flammable materials away

Use a spark screen if wood-burning

Let embers fully die before leaving unattended

Keep the Fire Pit Magic Alive in Summer

A fire pit isn’t just for chilly nights. With thoughtful planning, it can become the centerpiece of your summer backyard lifestyle—ideal for entertaining, cooking, relaxing, or just adding ambiance.

From grilling meals to setting the scene for movie night, the possibilities are endless. And with SUNJOY’s durable and beautifully designed fire pit options, you can enjoy this centerpiece in new ways all season long.