Story by: Anna McGauley Stockton
It’s summertime! And you know what that means… summer parties! With school out, schedules lax, and the sun setting later, summertime is a great time to gather friends and family for a fun get together. But you don’t have to do the same old tired summer party, you can jazz it up a bit with these fun ideas that are sure to make your soiree one to remember.
Themes for the Times
Anyone who knows me knows that I love a theme party. Whether it’s a Cinco de Mayo fiesta, a Mardi Gras party, or a patriotic Memorial Day bash, I do my best work when there’s a theme and I can let the creative juices flow. From the decor and paper products to the signature cocktail and on-point games, I love to see the finished product when the ideas come together. Choosing a theme for your backyard party will undoubtedly set the mood and vibe for a good time. And with the BIG 250th birthday, might I suggest a patriotic theme for your summer party, such as a Founding Fathers Party, complete with a playlist from Hamilton. This theme will ensure you don’t “throw away your shot” at a perfectly patriotic party.
Game On!
Okay, before the boardgame hating set (like me!) stop reading this, I’m referring to fun, outdoor games with no strict rulebook and very little chance of the evening ending with the flip of the board and cards strewn about by an overly competitive guest. I’m referring to hosting a cornhole tournament during your party. Or a nice, sophisticated game of bocce ball or a giant Jenga set for everyone to enjoy. You can also go old school with kickball or Kan Jam, although depending on the age of your guests, perhaps some stretching would be mandatory before participation. And while I can’t promise that overly competitive guest won’t show out with these games, at least you’ll have fun in the meantime… and the cleanup will be a whole lot easier.
Food Truck Fun
While some enjoy showing off their culinary skills while hosting a party, others would rather enjoy the party and leave the food to someone else. Having a food truck at your party is a fabulous way to outsource the grub and give the guests a unique experience. And there’s no shortage of food truck varieties, so no matter what your menu, there’s a food truck to suit it. If you’re not interested in providing a full meal, ice cream trucks and mobile bars will also leave your guests happy and enjoying the summertime fun.
The Ole’ Song & Dance
One of my favorite ideas for a summertime bash is to have your guests provide the entertainment. Just hear me out on this one. Although not everyone enjoys being an entertainer, those who do…LOVE to entertain. So why not set up a karaoke machine at your party and let the show begin? From oldies to rap to power ballads, as the drinks flow, so will the lyrics. If you have a particularly outgoing set of friends, a talent show is another way to entertain your guests… with the guests. Many people are waiting for their chance to show off their talents and shine. Hosting a party with a talent showas entertainment is the perfect way to put the spotlight on them.
Night at the Movies
One of the best purchases I’ve made in recent years was a projector and blow-up movie screen. This simple and inexpensive set up has given us a unique and easy way to throw a party everyone will remember. Whether it’s a neighborhood get together, a birthday party, or a summertime bash, making an outdoor movie the highlight of the evening is a great way to bring everyone together. I grab boxes of “movie theater candy” at the local dollar store and serve popcorn in vintage style boxes to complement the experience. While we enjoy watching musicals, you can tailor your movie to the vibe you’d like for your party, such as an ‘80s night with The Goonies on the big screen, or a pool party with guests on floats watching the ever-terrifying movie, Jaws… if they dare.
