30 Pool Party Ideas – Best Summer Pool Party Ideas 2023

Inflatables like balloons, pool floats, or (even better!) both are a fast, inexpensive way to up the fun factor at any pool party.

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SHOP BALLOONS

So easy to make from fresh fruit, these super-healthy popsicles are as pretty as they are yummy.

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If you’re looking to make a splash by elevating your bash, glam it up. Gold accents, plush pillows, a luxe flower arrangement or two and you’ve set a scene straight out of Beverly Hills.

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Donut cake pans, along with lots of frosting, are the keys to whipping up these delightful desserts that look just like pool floats! They’re sure to be the hit of your next pool party.

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Getting ready for a waterside blowout and need more seating pronto? Don’t despair, just pull together a couple of these clever recliners made from pool noodles and parachute cord.

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SHOP POOL NOODLES

DIY a fire pit your guests will flock to once the sun goes down and the s’mores ingredients come out. It’s easier to do than you might think, thanks to this tutorial. Or you can always buy one of these affordable fire pits.

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Sangria is one of summer’s most festive, flavorful drinks. Made with crisp white wine and fresh fruit, this make-ahead cocktail is a hostesses secret weapon.

Get the White Wine Sangria recipe.

If your pool party has a tropical flavor, these adorable garlands shaped like jungle flowers and fern leaves will add on-theme visual pizzazz to your gathering.

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Easy to serve and eat, grilled and skewered shrimp are light enough that guests might not have to wait 30 minutes after chowing down before they get back into the pool. They make a great app or even a side for a summer cookout.

Get the Grilled Shrimp Skewers recipe.

These pretty paper pineapple lanterns will bring a glittering glow to your party. We recomend using them with battery-operated tea lights for safety’s sake.

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SHOP FLAMELESS TEA LIGHTS

If pink’s one of your favorite hues, you might want to go with a flamingo-themed party that includes these super-cute disposable silverware pockets.

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Backyard games like this funky DIY cornhole set will keep the action going when everyone’s skin is too pruney to even think about hitting the water again.

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This fun twist on a classic tropical drink has all the flavors of a piña colada (including pineapple and coconut) in cake form! Serve up each slice with a mini paper umbrella for even more poolside fun.

Get the Piña Colada Cake recipe.

If you are tossing a mermaid-themed event for the gals in your group, these sweet little sugar scrub cubes will make for a festive party favor. Pair them with mermaid bath bombs if you want to go the extra mile.

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No swimming hole at home? No worries—grab the gang and head to a public pool. (Hint: many hotels sell non-guests day passes to their pools.) And don’t forget to bring the floats!

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SHOP POOL FLOATS

Bring your pizza party outdoors by learning how to make pizza on the grill! Then finish the pies with summery pizza toppings, like fresh cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

Get the Grilled Pizza recipe.

Supercharge your party by setting up and outdoor movie and screening your favorite summer flick. Might we suggest one of Ree’s favorites, Jaws?

Photo backdrops remain an incredibly popular addition to parties and why not—who doesn’t like to vogue? With its brilliant hibiscus flowers and rich green foliage, this one is a must for events with a Hawaiian or tropical theme.

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Don’t forget to welcome guests into your poolhouse if they need to change into their suits or otherwise use the facilities. It can be a great place to add extra seating for larger get-togethers, too.