Summer Party Hosting Essentials
Enjoy more fun in the sun.
Now that summer's here, it's time to make the most of the good weather with fun gatherings for your family and friends. Keep reading to discover the best outdoor summer party ideas to inspire your alfresco get-togethers.
In This Guide:
Soak Up Some Sun by the Pool
Hold an Outdoor Movie Night
Gather Together for a BBQ
Have a Picnic
Try an Ice Cream Social
Prepare for a Pizza Party
Throw a Garden Party
Host a Cocktail Party
1. Soak Up Some Sun by the Pool
Put on your bathing suit and catch those rays poolside this summer. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the water, so take your pick.
Keter 32 Qt. Pop-Up Cocktail Side Table & Cooler Combo
Want to keep your guests cool with some poolside refreshments? This pop-up side table and cooler combo takes dual-purpose furniture to the next level. The top serves as a sleek tabletop when the cooler is closed, and when lifted, the interior below opens up to a hidden 40-can capacity cooler. And once the party is over, the included drain allows you to easily get rid of the melted ice water.
Tip!
Take a look at Plan Your Next Pool Party With These 12 Poolside Essentials for more tips.
Birch Laneâ„¢ Calheta Cabana Stripe Beach Towels
Elevate the pool party experience by keeping plush towels on hand. These classic coastal striped towels come in plenty of bright summery hues and are available in sets of one, two, four, or six. The oversized design and absorbent terry cloth cotton construction will keep your guests (and floors) dry. Whether you’re using them to dry off or lie on, they’re machine-washable for easy post-pool party cleanup.
If you want to take a break from the sun, keep cool and shaded under this outdoor umbrella. The crank lift to make opening the octagonal canopy easy, while the tilt adjustability allows you to direct it precisely the way you want. The weather-resistant polyester doesn’t fade, so each of the 10 available shades will stay bright. Additionally, the scalloped edges make this umbrella a fun addition that's sure to look good in your space.
Kick back and get comfortable as you enjoy your time by the pool. This three-piece chaise set offers two flat-folding loungers to stretch out on as well as an 18 in. side table for your snacks and drinks. Pick from a versatile range of versatile neutral colors such as mahogany, teak, white, and slate to effortlessly fit your outdoor style.
Take advantage of these warm evenings by hosting an outdoor movie night. It's the perfect reason to gather with loved ones and watch a film together.
GPX Home Theater Portable Projector With Remote
Summer is made for evenings on the grass, watching movies under the stars. So, take advantage of the good weather and show your favorite films with this 7,000-lumen portable mini projector with built-in speakers. It's suitable for screens up to 150 in. and features Bluetooth capabilities, so you'll be able to connect your speaker or soundbar for a full theatrical feeling.
Project your movie onto this outdoor portable screen. The reflective nylon material is designed to offer high-resolution imagery, so you can enjoy high-definition screenings right in your backyard. It comes complete with a rigid stand that is easily set up on flat ground and quickly taken down when you're done. Plus, the lightweight, portable design allows you to turn any outdoor occasion into a movie night.
What's a movie without popcorn? If you regularly host at-home movie viewings, invest a countertop popcorn maker to guarantee you always have fresh snacks. This model comes complete with a warming tray and serving scoop to serve each guest, creating a genuine theatrical atmosphere.
Tip!
Want to take a closer look at what's needed to host an outdoor movie night? Read 20 Fun Outdoor Movie Night Ideas.
Winston Porter Bevelyn Outdoor Patio Sectional
Take a load off and enjoy the movie from the comfort of this outdoor patio sectional. With seating for five, you and your guests can get cozy and sink into the thick foam cushions. Since the cushion covers are water-resistant and machine-washable, you can take them off and toss them in the wash if any moviegoers accidentally spill on the seats.
Tip!
If you need to accommodate more people, a few outdoor blankets and pillows will provide ample casual floor seating.
Summer and grilling go hand in hand, so grab your favorite foods and throw a backyard barbecue!
Kamado Joe Big Portable Ceramic Charcoal Grill
This durable ceramic grill is perfect for big barbecues. It has a 22-burger capacity and a flexible cooking system featuring two independently adjustable half-moon grates, so you can cook different foods on multiple levels and cooking surfaces. The two exterior shelves hold all your barbecue essentials and tools, while the slide-out ash drawer makes cleanup a breeze.
Tip!
For more guidance on throwing a backyard barbeque, read BBQ Essentials to Set Your Next Backyard Party Up for Success.
August Grove® Patchogue Copper Beverage Tub
No matter if you plan to serve beverages in cans or bottles (or ask guests to bring their own), keep them all cold in this copper beverage tub. Just fill it with ice and stash the drinks inside so the summer heat doesn't get to them. Not only will this tub help cool your drinks, but it will also elevate your backyard BBQ spread.
With this 22-piece grill tool and accessory kit, you can handle any barbeque tasks that may come your way. The tongs, meat fork, and two spatulas will have you flipping steaks and burgers with ease. Add extra flavor with the basting brush and two sauce and liquid bottles, and be sure to use the apron to keep your clothes clean as you prepare a feast for your friends and family. Don't forget the stainless steel scraper to ensure your grill is cleaned after each use.
Add some entertainment to your backyard barbecue and kick it old school with this cornhole set. The regulation-size (4 ft. x 2 ft.) boards are made of solid but lightweight wood, and transportation's a breeze thanks to the handy carrying case. The eight included cornhole bags are filled with plastic pellets so they won't get damaged if they get wet, giving you long-lasting fun for the whole family.
If you're looking for a quick and easy outdoor gathering, be sure to add a picnic-themed option to the list. No matter the size of your yard or the number of guests you invite, this is a hassle-free option for all to enjoy.
Twine Seaside Cape Cod Wicker Basket With Insulated Compartments
Make your picnic more convenient with this timeless wicker basket. But don't be fooled – it features a lined interior complete with an insulated compartment for storing your cold items. It includes four sets of plates, silverware, wine glasses, and cloth napkins. This picnic basket also comes with a wine bottle opener and salt and pepper shakers, giving you everything you need to enjoy your alfresco meal.
Use these stylish platters to serve up a range of picnic foods for guests to help themselves to. These two melamine platters are glazed in a scratch-, warp-, and tarnish-resistant coating that will keep them looking new for years to come. Best of all, they’re dishwasher-safe, so cleanup is a breeze.
This 3.5 gal. break-resistant beverage dispenser is the ultimate addition to any outdoor picnic. Fill the removable center cone with ice to ensure your drinks remain nice and cool throughout the day. Whether you prepare a batch of iced tea or craft cocktails, the tap makes it easy for your guests to help themselves to refreshments.
This croquet set will provide hours of fun for your family and friends, whether they are beginners or experts. The six mallets, balls, wickets, and posts allow six people to play together – making it a good option for larger groups. Once you're done playing, all the weather-resistant pieces can be placed in the handy travel bag until you're ready for your next match!
For those in search of some family fun, an ice cream social will appeal to people of all ages. With these customizable treat options, your guest list is sure to fill up with adults and kids alike.
Cuisinart Electric 2 Qt. Ice Cream Maker
This 2 qt. ice cream maker is perfect for families who enjoy cold treats on hot summer days. In addition to ice cream, you can also make your own gelato, frozen yogurt, and sorbet – each in just 20 minutes. This is the perfect opportunity for you to experiment with flavors until you find your ideal combination. After all, it's hard to beat homemade.
Dole out evenly sized portions with this stainless steel ice cream scoop. The plastic handle provides a good grip and the convenient release level makes dishing a breeze. This is also a great option for creating symmetrical cookie dough balls before you pop them onto the baking tray – especially if you plan on creating homemade ice cream sandwiches.
Use a waffle cone maker to turn your ice cream social into a gourmet affair. This nonstick waffle cone maker comes with a shaper tool so you can create classic crispy cones to pair perfectly with your homemade ice cream.
Gather a range of ice cream toppings and set them out on this divided serving dish. Think sprinkles, nuts, and candies. Place each ingredient in a separate bowl and allow guests to take their pick so they can each decorate their ice cream to their liking.
Looking for something savory instead of sweet? A pizza party will give you the appetizing twist you're searching for.
Ninja Woodfire 8-in-1 Outdoor Portable Electric Roaster Pizza Oven
While most pizza ovens are loved by aficionados who enjoy making their own pie on the regular, this outdoor electric roaster pizza oven offers enough versatility to appeal to all home chefs. Not only are there five different crust settings for your pizza, but you can also select from the roast, broil, bake, and smoke functions to cook plenty of other meals with this multipurpose pizza oven.
Whether you use a pizza oven or your regular range, a pizza stone will help create a crispier crust for a more enjoyable pizza. You simply place this nonstick ceramic stone in the oven to heat up thoroughly. When it's ready, toss on your pizza for a crisp cook that prevents the toppings from making a soggy base.
A peel is ideal for those who regularly make their own pizzas. Just place your uncooked base on top of this 14 in. gourmet wood pizza peel before you start adding your ingredients. Once complete, slide the pizza onto the preheated pizza stone in the oven. When it's ready, you can also use the peel for safe and easy removal.
This rocking pizza knife is a must-have for portioning out your fresh pizza. The rocking style allows you to cut through your pizza in one smooth motion, while the sharp blade easily slices through cheese and toppings – providing you with crisp clean slices for everyone to enjoy.
Throw a garden party that's fit for a queen. Bring out your finery for a glamorous touch.
Birch Laneâ„¢ Burgess Tiered Stand
It wouldn't be a garden party without dessert, so display yours on this tiered cake stand. Whether you're serving baked chocolate cake, fruit tarts, or cupcakes, there is no prettier way to show your selection. One of these elevated bases can make for a lovely centerpiece on your table, working as both an aesthetic and functional addition.
Elevate your garden party table decor with this floral tablecloth. The pink roses and butterflies provide a delicate touch that's perfectly on theme – especially when topped with a stylish cake stand or colorful dinnerware. Plus, it’s machine-washable, so you don’t need to worry about any spills.
Want to make your table stand out? Use this 12-piece outdoor melamine dinnerware set for four. Although these stackable, chip-resistant plates and bowls are designed to be used outside, they still offer an elegant feeling thanks to the scalloped edges. While this set is not microwaveable, it can be placed in the dishwasher to nicely end your garden party.
Serve your lemonade or iced tea in this beautiful glass pitcher and top it off with freshly cut fruit for an added flourish. Alternatively, you can add a little bubbly and orange juice for a fun mimosa brunch if you prefer. This set's six matching highball glasses will provide a conveniently cohesive look so your guests can sip in style.
It's the perfect time to gather your friends and throw a fancy cocktail party for the adults to enjoy.
Beachcrest Homeâ„¢ Catalan Solid Wood Bar Cart
Wheel your drinks out in style with this solid wood bar cart. Whether you decide to show off your cocktail-making skills or keep it simple with cold drinks, store your beverages close at hand with this rolling bar cart. The two tiers and three-bottle wine rack provide plenty of space to store all the drinkware and accessories you need to ensure that no one goes thirsty at your cocktail party.
Try your hand at making all the delicious summer cocktails you've had your eye on using this 25-piece bar tool set that includes a shaker, shot pourer, strainer, and swizzle sticks. As an added bonus, the included stand allows you to neatly store each and every item away while taking up minimal counter space.
Skip trips to the freezer and stock your bar cart with this stainless steel ice bucket. It features rounded handles on either side and on the lid for ease of use, while the double walls provide the insulation needed to keep ice cold. Additionally, the dishwasher-safe, tarnish-free material ensures you'll have this ice bucket for years to come.
From mojitos to margaritas, this six-piece set of shatterproof drinking glasses is perfect for sipping cocktails on the patio. Available in clear or light green, the glasses’ ribbed surface offers a trendy-yet-timeless look to complete your outdoor bar setup. And when you're done, you can simply place them in the dishwasher for quick and easy cleaning.
