Backyard Fire Pit Ideas can transform any outdoor space into a cozy and inviting retreat, perfect for gatherings, relaxation, and year-round enjoyment. From classic wood-burning fire pits that offer a rustic charm to propane or gas fire pits that provide convenience and easy ignition, there are endless styles to choose from. A built-in stone fire pit adds a permanent and elegant touch, while a portable metal fire bowl allows flexibility in placement.
Fire pits can be surrounded by built-in seating, Adirondack chairs, or even a circular stone bench for added comfort. For a modern aesthetic, consider a rectangular fire pit table with a sleek design and lava rocks. Enhance the ambiance with string lights, lanterns, or fire glass for a warm glow. Whether creating a simple DIY fire pit with stacked bricks or investing in a high-end custom fire feature, a backyard fire pit adds warmth, style, and a perfect focal point for outdoor gatherings.
Backyard Fire Pit Ideas
🔥 Fire Pit Material Ideas
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Stone Fire Pit – Natural stone for a rustic look
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Brick Fire Pit – Classic and durable option
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Concrete Fire Pit – Modern and sleek design
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Metal Fire Pit – Portable and industrial look
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Cast Iron Fire Pit – Heavy-duty and long-lasting
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Copper Fire Pit – Elegant and stylish with a patina finish
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Steel Fire Pit – Lightweight and durable option
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Cinder Block Fire Pit – Budget-friendly and easy to build
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Flagstone Fire Pit – Earthy and textured appearance
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Paver Fire Pit – Affordable and DIY-friendly
🔥 Fire Pit Fuel Types
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Wood-Burning Fire Pit – Traditional, smoky, and cozy
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Propane Fire Pit – Easy to use with clean flames
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Natural Gas Fire Pit – Permanent and convenient
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Gel Fuel Fire Pit – Small, portable, and smokeless
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Bioethanol Fire Pit – Eco-friendly and modern
🔥 Fire Pit Shapes & Styles
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Round Fire Pit – Classic and social design
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Square Fire Pit – Modern and space-efficient
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Rectangular Fire Pit – Contemporary and sleek
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Bowl-Shaped Fire Pit – Simple and stylish
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Tabletop Fire Pit – Small and decorative for patios
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Chiminea Fire Pit – Mexican-inspired enclosed design
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Sunken Fire Pit – Built-in and recessed for a cozy vibe
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Fire Pit Table – Multipurpose with warmth and function
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Pyramid Fire Pit – Unique and sculptural
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Hexagonal Fire Pit – Distinctive and geometric
🔥 DIY & Budget-Friendly Fire Pit Ideas
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Stacked Stone Fire Pit – No mortar needed for easy assembly
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Repurposed Washing Machine Drum Fire Pit – Upcycled and creative
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Metal Barrel Fire Pit – Rustic and industrial
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Concrete Block Fire Pit – Cheap and sturdy
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Salvaged Brick Fire Pit – Reuse old bricks for charm
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Flower Pot Fire Pit – Mini tabletop fire pit
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Fire Pit Using Old Car Rim – Budget-friendly and practical
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Gravel Surround Fire Pit – Simple and easy to maintain
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Upcycled Fire Pit Using Railroad Ties – Rustic and vintage
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Fire Pit with Recycled Wine Bottles – Creative and colorful
🔥 Built-In & Permanent Fire Pit Ideas
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Sunken Stone Fire Pit – In-ground and sleek
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Fire Pit with Retaining Wall Seating – Functional and stylish
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Fire Pit with Outdoor Kitchen – Luxury entertainment space
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Fire Pit with Water Feature – Unique fire & water combination
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Fire Pit with Pizza Oven – Dual-purpose and fun
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Fire Pit with Pergola Cover – Cozy, shaded space
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Fire Pit with Outdoor Fireplace – Hybrid for ultimate comfort
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Sunken Fire Pit with Glass Wind Guard – Stylish and protected
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Fire Pit with Swing Seating – Fun and relaxing
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Infinity Edge Fire Pit – Sleek and modern luxury
🔥 Fire Pit Seating Ideas
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Adirondack Chairs Around Fire Pit – Classic backyard feel
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Built-In Stone Bench Seating – Sturdy and stylish
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Tree Stump Seating – Rustic and natural
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Swing Seating Around Fire Pit – Unique and fun
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Outdoor Sectional Seating – Comfortable and cozy
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Wicker Patio Chairs – Elegant and weather-resistant
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Concrete Curved Seating – Sleek and permanent
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Circular Wooden Benches – DIY-friendly and practical
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Pallet Bench Seating – Affordable and upcycled
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Hammocks Around Fire Pit – Ultimate relaxation
🔥 Fire Pit Surround & Décor Ideas
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String Lights Around Fire Pit – Soft and magical ambiance
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Lanterns Around Fire Pit – Cozy and stylish glow
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Fire Glass Inside Fire Pit – Modern and colorful look
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Lava Rocks Fire Pit – Natural and durable heat retention
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Brick Paver Patio Fire Pit – Defined and elegant space
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Mulch Fire Pit Surround – Affordable and low-maintenance
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Outdoor Rug Under Fire Pit – Cozy and decorative
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Fire Pit with Built-In Bar – Perfect for entertaining
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Fire Pit with Decorative Screens – Added safety and style
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Fire Pit with Built-In Storage – Wood or gas tank storage
🔥 Multi-Function Fire Pit Ideas
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Fire Pit with Grill Grate – Doubles as a cooking area
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Fire Pit Coffee Table – Stylish and practical
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Fire Pit with Ice Pit Feature – Converts into a drink cooler
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Convertible Fire Pit Dining Table – Multi-use for meals
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Fire Pit with Pop-Up TV – Ultimate backyard luxury
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Fire Pit with Built-In Speakers – Music and warmth combined
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Fire Pit with LED Lighting – Stunning nighttime effect
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Fire Pit with Storage Benches – Space-saving seating
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Fire Pit with Retractable Cover – Keeps it clean and protected
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Fire Pit with Detachable Swivel Grill – Perfect for BBQ nights
🔥 Seasonal & Themed Fire Pit Ideas
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Fall-Themed Fire Pit – Pumpkins, blankets, and warm drinks
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Winter Fire Pit Setup – Cozy seating with hot cocoa
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Boho Fire Pit Lounge – Low seating, rugs, and fairy lights
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Desert Oasis Fire Pit – Southwestern cacti and decor
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Minimalist Fire Pit Setup – Clean lines and neutral tones
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Coastal-Themed Fire Pit – Driftwood, seashells, and blues
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Mountain Lodge Fire Pit – Rustic wood and stone elements
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Zen Garden Fire Pit – Calming bamboo and water features
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Halloween Fire Pit Setup – Spooky lanterns and glowing pumpkins
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Tiki Fire Pit Theme – Tropical torches and island vibes
🔥 Unique & Unconventional Fire Pit Ideas
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Hanging Fire Pit – Suspended for a unique visual effect
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Floating Fire Pit on Water – Ultimate luxury feature
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DIY Glow-in-the-Dark Fire Pit – Painted with luminous effects
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Fire Pit Inside a Wine Barrel – Rustic and charming
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Fire Pit with Transparent Glass Walls – Ultra-modern design
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Fire Pit with a Secret Compartment – Hidden storage
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Repurposed Bathtub Fire Pit – Vintage and unique
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Portable Rolling Fire Pit – Easy to move around
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Fire Pit with Adjustable Flame Height – Customizable warmth
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Hidden Underground Fire Pit – Secret and stylish
🔥 Family & Social Fire Pit Ideas
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S’mores Station Fire Pit – Perfect for family nights
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Outdoor Movie Night Fire Pit – Cozy film setup
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Fire Pit with Board Game Table – Fun and interactive
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Fire Pit with Picnic Table Seating – Casual and functional
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Interactive Fire Pit with Games – Horseshoes, cornhole nearby
How to Make a Backyard Fire Pit
Creating a backyard fire pit is a fantastic way to add warmth, ambiance, and a cozy gathering spot to your outdoor space. Whether you want a simple DIY fire pit or a built-in stone feature, follow these detailed steps to build a safe, durable, and stylish fire pit!
🔧 Materials & Tools Needed
✅ Materials:
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Bricks, pavers, or stones (for the fire pit walls)
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Gravel or sand (for the base)
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Fireproof bricks or fire ring (optional for extra durability)
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Concrete adhesive or mortar (for securing the structure)
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Lava rocks or fire glass (for the inside layer)
✅ Tools:
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Shovel – For digging and leveling
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Tape Measure – To measure the pit dimensions
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Level – Ensures the base and walls are even
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Tamping Tool – For compacting the base
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Masonry Saw (Optional) – To cut bricks if needed
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Bucket of Water & Sponge – For cleaning bricks while working
🔥 Step 1: Choose the Fire Pit Location
🔹 Pick a safe and open area at least 10-15 feet away from:
✔️ Houses & buildings
✔️ Overhanging trees
✔️ Fences & structures
✔️ Dry grass & flammable materials
🔹 Flat ground is best, but you can level a sloped area if needed.
🔹 Check local regulations for fire pit rules in your area!
🔥 Step 2: Mark the Fire Pit Layout
1️⃣ Decide on the Size:
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Standard size: 36 to 44 inches wide
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Fire ring size: 24 to 36 inches wide
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Depth: 6 to 12 inches deep
2️⃣ Use a Stake & String:
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Hammer a stake into the ground at the center of your pit.
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Tie a string to the stake and measure half the diameter of your fire pit (e.g., 18 inches for a 36-inch pit).
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Use the string and a marking spray or chalk to draw a perfect circle.
3️⃣ Outline with Bricks or Stones:
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Lay bricks or stones around the marked circle to visualize the shape.
🔥 Step 3: Dig the Fire Pit Base
1️⃣ Use a shovel to dig inside the marked circle.
2️⃣ Dig down 6-12 inches for stability.
3️⃣ Compact the soil with a tamping tool to create a firm base.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re making a sunken fire pit, dig a deeper hole (up to 18 inches).
🔥 Step 4: Add a Base Layer
1️⃣ Pour Gravel or Sand
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Spread 2-4 inches of gravel or paver sand inside the pit for drainage.
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Use a rake to level it evenly.
2️⃣ Compact the Base
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Use a tamping tool to press down the gravel, creating a solid, flat foundation.
🔥 Step 5: Build the Fire Pit Walls
1️⃣ Lay the First Layer of Bricks or Stones
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Start placing bricks or stones around the pit edge.
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Use a level to ensure they are even.
2️⃣ Stack the Next Layers
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Continue stacking bricks/stones in a staggered pattern for stability.
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If using concrete adhesive or mortar, apply a thin layer between bricks.
3️⃣ Check for Stability
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Press down on the structure and adjust if needed.
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Allow mortar to dry for 24 hours if used.
💡 Tip: Use fire bricks for the inner walls to withstand high heat.
🔥 Step 6: Add Fireproof Materials Inside the Pit
1️⃣ Fire Ring (Optional)
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Place a metal fire ring inside for extra protection.
2️⃣ Lava Rocks or Fire Glass
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Spread lava rocks or fire glass on the bottom to improve heat distribution.
🔥 Step 7: Test & Enjoy Your Fire Pit
1️⃣ Check Safety First!
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Remove any flammable materials nearby.
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Keep a bucket of water or fire extinguisher ready.
2️⃣ Start a Small Fire
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Use dry wood or fire logs to test the fire pit.
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Avoid using pressure-treated wood (releases toxic fumes).
3️⃣ Relax & Enjoy! 🔥🏕️
🔥 Optional Fire Pit Enhancements
✔ Built-In Seating – Add stone or wood benches
✔ Patio Pavers Around Fire Pit – Creates a clean sitting area
✔ Decorative Fire Pit Cover – Keeps it protected when not in use
✔ Custom Fire Pit Tabletop – Converts into an outdoor table
✔ LED String Lights & Lanterns – Enhances the ambiance
🔥 Fire Pit Maintenance & Safety Tips
✅ Always check weather conditions before lighting a fire
✅ Never leave the fire unattended
✅ Use a fire screen to contain embers
✅ Clean out ashes regularly
✅ Avoid burning trash, plastics, or treated wood
✅ Follow local fire regulations
🔥 Conclusion
Building a DIY backyard fire pit is an easy, rewarding project that adds value and enjoyment to your outdoor space. Whether using bricks, stones, or a fire ring, following these steps ensures a safe, durable, and beautiful fire pit. Now, grab some marshmallows and get ready for cozy nights by the fire! 🔥🍢








