The Best Way to Keep Yellowjackets Away from Your Barbecue

 

The most effective way to repel yellowjackets during barbecues is to use a combination of physical prevention, strategic placement of attractants away from guests, and, if needed, safe repellents. The goal is to keep yellowjackets distracted or uninterested in your food and guests without harming them or anyone at the event.

 

Why Yellowjackets Come to Barbecues

 

Yellowjackets are a type of wasp that loves protein (like meat) in the spring and early summer, and sweet things (like soda and fruit) later in the summer. Barbecues are very attractive because of the smell of grilled foods, sugary drinks, and exposed meat. They are especially aggressive when food is around because they are feeding themselves or collecting food for their young.

 

Physical Barriers and Prevention

 

• Cover Food and Drinks: Always keep food in sealed containers or covered with lids, foil, or food tents until it’s actually being served. This blocks the smell and makes it difficult for yellowjackets to reach the food.
• Clean Up Quickly: Remove used plates, cups, and trash as soon as people are done eating. Wipe surfaces immediately to remove spills, crumbs, and sticky spots.
• Seal Your Trash: Make sure garbage cans have tight-fitting lids. If your bin doesn’t have one, use a large cover or tie-off bag after putting food waste inside. Empty bins regularly.

 

Distract Them With Decoy Food Stations

 

• Set Up a Bait Station: Before guests arrive, place a plate of raw meat or tuna and a cup of sweet juice or soda about 20 or 30 feet away from your eating area. This will attract yellowjackets away from your guests.
• Change Bait Locations: If yellowjackets become too numerous on a bait, move it even farther from guests, or replace the bait with fresh items to keep it effective.

 

Use Safe Repellents and Natural Deterrents

 

• Fans: Set up outdoor fans near eating areas. Yellowjackets are weak fliers and usually avoid breezy spots because they can’t navigate in the wind.
• Essential Oils: Some scents, especially peppermint oil or clove oil, are known to be disliked by yellowjackets. Mix a few drops with water and spray around the picnic area (not directly on food). Commercial wasp-repellent sprays based on these oils are available and safe for outdoor use.
• Fake Nests: Yellowjackets are territorial and avoid places where another colony is present. Hang up a fake nest (available online or in garden stores) to discourage them from coming close. Be sure to hang it up a day or two before your event for the best effect.

 

What to Avoid

 

• Never Swat at Yellowjackets: Swatting makes them more aggressive and calls more wasps to the area if they release alarm pheromones.
• Don’t Use Sugary Traps Near Guests: Traps and baits should be placed far from where people eat, as these will attract yellowjackets to their location.
• Avoid Wearing Strong Scents or Bright Colors: Perfumes, bright clothing, and floral prints can attract yellowjackets, so opt for neutral, plain clothing during outdoor meals.

 

A Quick Checklist for a Yellowjacket-Free Barbecue

 

• Cover all food and drinks right away when not in use
• Set up a bait (like some very sweet juice or bits of meat) far from guests before you start cooking
• Place garbage in tightly closed bins, kept away from eating areas
• Wipe up spills and crumbs quickly and keep the barbecue area tidy
• Use fans to keep the area breezy
• Spray table edges and seating areas with a safe essential oil solution if desired
• Hang a fake yellowjacket nest to discourage new arrivals

 

By following these steps, you can dramatically reduce the chances of yellowjackets bothering your barbecue—making the meal more enjoyable and safer for everyone.