Throw the Ultimate Summer Party

Start the summer on a high note with friends and family

By Jenna Greaves

As the sun brightly heralds the start of summer, it’s time to kick off the season in style. There is no better way to do so than with the ultimate end-of-summer backyard party. Bask in the sunlight with friends and family before the rain kicks in. Read on for a bit of inspiration to get the good times rolling!

Set the Scene

Whether you prefer a tropical luau theme or a retro-inspired party, the key is to prioritize vibrant and inviting colors. Transform your backyard into a summer getaway with fresh flower displays, beachballs, and leis. To ensure that the true essence of summer is in the air, adorn every drink and hors d’oeuvre with a cocktail umbrella. When planning your party, save money by upcycling old mason jars and vases to create floral centerpieces. Get creative and set up a DIY photo wall to capture the picture-perfect moments. With these decorations, your party will be one to remember.

Game On

Although your guests will be pleasantly mesmerized by your decorations, you must keep them entertained. With exciting activities for everyone, there will always be a bright moment at your party. Please encourage your friends to embrace their competitive side with a few tournament games. No party would be complete without a cornhole tournament. Mix up the classic game with truth-or-dare cornhole.

If you have a pool, consider starting a game of water volleyball or have your guests compete in a relay race. No pool? No problem. Cool off with a water balloon fight or turn on the sprinklers to instantly beat the heat when it gets too hot. For those who prefer to spend most of their time at the snack table, a friendly hot dog eating contest is sure to satisfy anyone’s hunger and competitive nature. The winner gets bragging rights for the rest of the year!

Set the Mood

Keep the party going all night with tiki torches and string lights when the sun goes down. Create a magical ambiance that will set the perfect mood for unforgettable memories. Once the day begins to slow down, tap into summer nostalgia with a timeless movie. Fill your backyard with cozy blankets and pillows, set up a projector, and turn on a classic flick. Of course, you can’t have summer without smores. Break out the marshmallows and light the fire pit while relaxing under the stars.

Now that you have your party plans, all that’s left is to send invitations. Check out our summer playlist to get the party started!

Summer Soundtrack

■ Party in the USA by Miley Cyrus

■ Sunroof by Nicky Youre, dazy

■ Summer Days by Martin Garrix, Macklemore, Fall Out Boy

■ Lavender Haze by Taylor Swift

■ Calm Down by Rema, Selena Gomez

■ Pineapple Sunrise by Beach Weather

■ Flowers by Miley Cyrus

■ This Is What You Came For by Calvin Harris, Rihanna

■ Watermelon Sugar by Harry Styles

■ Summer Baby by Jonas Brothers