The unofficial start of summer is almost here — and if your backyard, patio or deck is still looking like it’s in winter recovery mode, this is your sign to get it long-weekend ready.

Whether you’re planning a backyard BBQ, a casual family dinner outside, an afternoon in the shade, or a cozy evening around the fire, a few smart outdoor upgrades can make your space feel more comfortable, more stylish and a whole lot more usable.

Here’s your May long weekend backyard checklist — from grilling must-haves to lounge-worthy patio picks.

1. Start with the Main Event: Outdoor Cooking

No Canadian long weekend is complete without something sizzling outside. Whether you’re flipping pancakes for brunch, searing burgers for dinner or cooking up a full backyard feast, an outdoor griddle is one of the most versatile ways to host.

For serious outdoor cooking, the Napoleon Freestyle 36" Propane Gas Griddle is a hero piece. With a large flat-top cooking surface, it’s made for everything from smash burgers and fajitas to breakfast spreads and grilled vegetables.

For smaller patios, condos or more compact outdoor spaces, the Napoleon 24" Freestyle Propane Griddle still brings that outdoor cooking energy, without taking up as much room.

Backyard idea

Create a “griddle night” instead of a traditional BBQ. Set out toppings, buns, sauces and sides so everyone can build their own burger, taco or breakfast sandwich.

2. Add the Grill Master Extras

Once you have the BBQ or griddle covered, the accessories are what take your setup from basic to backyard-pro.

Tepperman’s carries the kinds of Broil King add-ons a grill master actually wants — from marinade tools to roasters, mats, thermometers and practical prep accessories.

Easy outdoor cooking upgrades

• The Bluetooth Wireless Thermometer helps take the guesswork out of cooking, especially when you’re juggling guests, sides and drinks.
• The Broil King Chicken Roaster is perfect for anyone who wants to do more than burgers and hot dogs.
• The Broil King Marinade Injector is a small but mighty tool for adding flavour to meats before they hit the grill.
• The Broil King Silicone Side Shelf Mat helps protect your grill’s prep area from sauces, grease and scratches — because the cleanup matters too.

Backyard idea

Build a Father’s Day-worthy grill accessory bundle now. Even if the gift comes later, the long weekend is a great time to see what’s missing from your outdoor cooking setup.

3. Make Shade Part of the Plan

A beautiful backyard isn’t just about what looks good — it’s about what feels good when the sun is out.

An offset umbrella is one of the easiest ways to make a patio, deck or outdoor dining area more comfortable. The Patio Slate 10' Offset Umbrella with LED and Stand adds shade during the day and helps keep the space feeling finished into the evening.

It’s especially useful if your outdoor seating or dining area isn’t directly beside the house, since the offset design gives you more flexibility with placement.

Backyard idea

Place an umbrella over a lounge zone or dining set to create an “outdoor room” feeling. Add an outdoor rug underneath to make the space feel more intentional.

4. Create a Classic Backyard Hangout Spot

You don’t need a full patio set to make your outdoor space feel more inviting. Sometimes, the easiest upgrade is a comfortable chair that gives people a reason to sit, stay and enjoy the weather.

The Upright Adirondack in Slate brings that classic outdoor look to a backyard, deck, porch or fire pit area. It has that relaxed, cottage-inspired feel that works beautifully for Canadian summers — whether you’re setting up a quiet morning coffee spot, extra seating for guests, or a cozy place to unwind after dinner.

Use one on its own in a sunny corner, or pair a few together around a fire pit to create an easy conversation area.

Backyard idea

Build a simple “stay awhile” zone with two Adirondack chairs, a small side table and a fire pit nearby. No pool required — just a good seat, good company and a little long-weekend weather.

5. Plan for Evenings Outside

The best long weekend moments often happen after dinner, when everyone lingers outside a little longer.

A fire pit helps extend your outdoor space into the evening and makes the backyard feel cozy even when the temperature dips. The Napoleon Timberwolf Smokeless Fire Pit is a great addition for creating that gathering spot — perfect for conversation, relaxing and making the most of the night.

Backyard idea

Create a simple evening zone with a fire pit, a few outdoor chairs and a basket of blankets. It doesn’t have to be complicated to feel special.

6. Finish the Space Like a Room

The best outdoor spaces feel like an extension of your home. Once you have the main pieces in place, the finishing touches make the difference.

Outdoor finishing touches to consider

• Outdoor rugs to define the space
• Umbrellas for shade and comfort
• Fire pits for evening ambiance
• Grill accessories for easier hosting
• Lounge seating for relaxing between meals

The goal isn’t to over-decorate. It’s to make your backyard easier to use and more inviting, whether you’re hosting the whole family or just sneaking outside for a quiet coffee.

Get Long-Weekend Ready with Tepperman’s

From Napoleon griddles and Broil King BBQ accessories to patio umbrellas, fire pits and lounge-worthy outdoor furniture, Tepperman’s has everything you need to make your backyard feel ready for the season.

So before the May long weekend arrives, take a look outside and ask yourself: is your backyard ready for the first real weekend of summer?

If not, now’s the time to get it there.