Should I provide entertainment for barbecue?

[Notsuretoputit]

I’m hosting a barbecue on the bank holiday weekend. A dozen or so people coming. I’m a bit worried that because I’ll be busy with the barbecue, the guests will be bored and think I’m neglecting them. Should I be providing some sort of entertainment, and if so, what? Or am I overthinking it and they’ll just entertain themselves chatting to each other?

They’ll chat- it’s fine.
But have everything prepped before so you can just bbq when everyone arrives

12 people should be able to chat. Introduce them on arrival; I'm sure it'll be fine.

Just have a great playlist sorted and you'll be fine 🙌🏼

We've hosted many barbecues and have never provided entertainment. I agree with PP, put time into planning so you are not spending the whole time cooking.
What are you planning on serving?

No, a BBQ is an occasion when you mingle and chat with people.
People don't need to be 'entertained'

YY to a playlist.

What kind of entertainment have you ever had at any BBQ...ever? Apart from maybe some music playlist/radio? And even then probably 50% don't have music.

It's an informal meal that's all... People will chat and eat and drink.

I just chuck the radio on. Not loudly.

Are the all randoms who don't know each other? Are there couples/friends/colleagues in the group? Either way, what sort of 'entertainment' have YOU ever had at a BBQ? I'd love to know?

Generally, there might be music on quietly in the background so people can chat. Early 20's a friend had a hired spa bath thing in the garden, but I think that was a birthday rather than just a BBQ.

Prep as much as you can beforehand, ask a friend to help, get friends to help BBQ etc so you aren't consumed by standing over the BBQ the whole day.

Music.., plenty booze/nibbles for whilst the bbq is cooking.., we had a great bbq for my husbands 30th!