Summer is quickly coming to an end, & you are either one of two people… You’re either ready for everything pumpkin spice, flannels, & corn mazes OR you are clinging onto every last second of road trips, lake days, & sunshine.
No matter if you are stretching out your Summer or ready to jump into Autumn, I think everyone can agree that it’s always fun to end Summer with a bang. The absolute best way to do this is to throw an End of Summer Bash. Here are some helpful hints to throw an unforgettable Summer party:
A Method to the Madness
First things first, you should plan out the big details of your bash. Pick a date that is convenient for you & all of your guests. The next thing you should do is come up with a theme. This will allow you to determine just about everything that you will need for your party. It will set the tone for your party & help determine decor, food, activities, & music you’ll want to have. If you are having trouble coming up with a theme, consider a luau, flamingo, watermelon, etc. Remember, this is your last celebration of Summer, so your theme should feel like Summertime is here to stay forever (even if we just wish it would).
Too Hot to Handle
At this point in the Summer, everyone should be used to the blistering heat. But if your backyard does not offer any shade, it could be a bit unbearable for your guests who may have already gotten sunburnt a time or two (or ten). On the other hand, if your bash is in September, having shade could double as shelter for unexpected bad weather. As the season changes, the weather can be a bit unpredictable so we recommend having a tent for overhead coverage. You’ll be so glad that you were fully prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.
Sweet Summertime
Let’s face it, the best part of a party is the food. Make sure you have plenty & plan on foods that will survive the Summer heat. Think typical Summery finger foods & you will hit the nail on the head. Some summertime favorites include watermelon, BBQ favorites, chips & dips, veggie trays, & of course some sweet treats . If there are a lot of bugs that are still lingering with the Summer heat, make sure you have some room to bring the food inside (just in case).
If you want to be a little extra & throw a Pinterest-worthy party, consider having a few concession machines. Some crowd favorites are Cotton Candy and/or Sno Cone machines. Let the county fair continue right in your own backyard!
Margaritaville
Nothing says Summer quite like a frozen tropical beverage. Margaritas, Mai Thais, and Pina Coladas are always so tasty, but can be time consuming to make. Enjoy your party with the ultimate hack… rent a margarita machine. The machine will do the work for you & you’ll get perfect drinks with every pour. If you have some kiddos or non-drinkers at your bash, make sure your beverages are inclusive for all of your guests. The perfect hack is to put the mix only in the machine (no alcohol). If a guest wishes to indulge a little, they can always pour their own alcohol in their cup as a float. It is such a simple solution that allows everyone to join in on the fun.
Make A Splash
Don’t have a pool? No problem! Beat the heat with a more simple water feature. Whether it’s a slip n’ slide, sprinkler, kiddie pool or, some misters & fans, or any combo of the above will always be appreciated by your party-goers. Nothing says Summer quite like a little splash. Kids and adults alike will both have a blast and stay cool from the Summer sun.
Anyone’s Game
Are you & your friends obsessed with lawn games? Your party could be the ultimate cornhole championship. Keep in mind, whoever wins gets to claim bragging rights until next year’s Summer kick-off, so make sure you practice. If you are going to have a ton of kids at your party, make sure you have plenty of activities/games for them as well. School is right around the corner or may have already begun. Give them an unforgettable experience that will have them counting down the days until the last day of school.
Summer Nights
There are only so many late night sunsets left of the Summer & this is potentially your last opportunity to take advantage of it. When the sun does finally go down, light up the night so your party doesn’t have to end. String some bistro lighting strung around your backyard. Not only gives a beautiful glow, but it will also help prevent your friend Becky from accidentally tripping into the kiddie pool.
You’re all set to throw your bash. Have the best time & enjoy those last few moments of the Summertime sunshine. Don’t be surprised if your friends & family ask for your party to become an annual affair!
