First Snow BBQ Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much snow is snow? 1 flake? 2 flakes? Flurries but no accumulation?
A: Simply put, it's gotta stick. Dustings don't count anymore. We want SNOW! If it's enough to make you wonder, check the website or email [email protected] to find out more.
2. What is the ruling on sleet?
A: Are you kidding? Sleet is not snow…
3. Does frost count?
A: No way. C'mon - you know better than that.
4. If the 1st snowfall is on Shabbat (Friday night or Saturday day) when does the BBQ take place?
A: Saturday night one hour after sundown. Even if it snows during the day on Friday, we'll grill Saturday night. See below…
5. No fish grilling, right?
A: Right.
6. What if it is snowing where I live but not where you live?
A: Snow is snow. If you're willing to travel, we're willing to grill.
7. What if the first snow is at 4 am? 11 am? Is the BBQ right then or do we come later in the evening?
A: We'll grill at 6 pm following the snow (if it snows in the morning, we grill that night. If it snows between 4-6 pm, we may or may not be prepared - check the website. If it snows overnight, we grill the next evening, but ONLY if there is still snow on the ground.).
Rules always have exceptions.
a) Always best to check the website/email first to be sure.
b) For Saturday exceptions see the section above about Shabbat.
8. What if it's during the first week of November when I'm in Chicago? Will you save me some meat or simply mail it to me?
A: Sadly, no meat delivery is available. However, feel free to let us know when you're back in town if you missed the que. We'll make sure to find a time to grill again in the white stuff!
9. What if I have more questions?
A: If you have any additional questions, feel free to email and we'll be sure to address them here.... Unless it snows first!
10. Should we bring anything?
A: Yes! Beer and other celebratory libations would be most appreciated! As would other pareve snacks like pretzels, chips, etc. Kosher meat or other things to grill also great, but we'll be sure to have a bunch on hand as well....
11. What happens if the first snow happens while you are away on one of your many travel adventures?
A: Hmm... if you're willing to come to our house, fire up the grill, bring everything you need, make sure it is all Kosher, and clean up after yourselves - feel free to celebrate the Snowbeque in our absence! Otherwise, we'll revisit when we return and promise to make it up to you...
12. What if I am vegetarian?
A: We'll always have some veggie-friendly options on hand, but feel free to BYOV (just make sure it is kosher and not marked "dairy")
13. Do you have parking?
A: If you're willing to drive in the snow, we will definitely make sure you can park your car. We have a driveway and you can park freely on our street. Living in the suburbs does have some perks. There is also free parking in an often plowed lot at the library around the corner.
14. What are our options if the snow continues to fall heavily and/or we are having so much fun we don't want to leave?
A: If you want to make the trek over here, we are happy to discuss sleepover options, though it might mean we insist on grilling breakfast with you as well.
15. Who does the grilling?
A: Pete and whoever is warm-blooded enough to keep him company.
16. Is there anything new about Snowbeque now that it is in Newton?
A: Two things: FIRE PIT AND SLEDDING (optional... maybe)
17. Are kids invited to the Snowbeque?
A: Yes of course. Ilan and Yaara like friends.
18. How can I stay updated with Snowbeque news in this crazy social media world?
A: Three ways: website, email, and Twitter (@Snowbeque). No Facebook yet but we're thinking about it...
19. Where did Snowbeque come from?
A: Click here.
20. Are contributions accepted to help support current and future Snowbeques?
A: As Snowbeques have grown over the years, we are now making this an option since some of you have asked. It is not required or expected, we really just like grilling with you all... But if you are interested you can click here to donate online.
21. What's this about a First-Foot-of-Snowbeque? Does it need to snow a foot in one storm or is it cumulative?
A: Step 1: Put out a ruler. Step 2: Watch for when the snow on the ground reaches the top of said ruler (assuming it is indeed a 12" ruler and not a yardstick). Step 3: Come over, we are grilling and waiting for you...
2021 COVID UPDATES
22. What about the global pandemic? Everything fun has been canceled for so long, will Snowbeque still happen this year?
A: We want everyone to be safe and make choices that are best for them and their families. That said, when it snows, we will be grilling. We are all vaccinated and would love to see you! Please note that we will likely all stay outside.
23. Can we still bring any food/drink to share?
A: Yes please! See #10 above.
24. If we are freezing can we go inside to warm up?
A: Bring an extra sweater and don't forget your hat.
OTHER QUESTIONS
25. What if we don't live anywhere near you but heard about Snowbeque and want to grill when it snows?
A: We would be honored if you wanted to start your own Snowbeque tradition in other parts of the country (or the world). We currently have Snowbeque satellites in Maryland and Pennsylvania!
2022 UPDATES
26. What if you are busy with other plans OR it snows right before dinnertime and you aren't prepared OR your kids are melting down OR any number of unexpected situations happen?
A: Life is complicated. We reserve the right to schedule the Snowbeque when it works best for our family. Check the website for the most accurate info.
27. If we are vaccinated and still freezing, can we go inside this year?
A: People may be able to go inside this year if needed. Unless you're from Canada, in which case you should be able to handle the cold.
Have more questions we haven't yet answered? Click here.
