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Over-the-Top Pool Party Themes!
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items My pool party post is all about creative themes to surprise and delight guests this summer. You'll find creative drink and food recipes, cocktails and other ideas for making the party one to remember. So how do you take these party themes over-the-top? By choosing unique decor, serving items and accessories to complement. AND - I've even added some of my favorite bathing suit links for you to truly represent the theme! I could spend days sharing memorable, quality decor ideas for your party, but I hope this gets you started! And if you do host this party - leave me a comment on the blog and let me know how it goes!
Sections
5
Christmas Vibes Pool Party
The Flamingo Fiesta
Under the Sea Splashfest
THE EDM Glow Party!
Mardi Gras Poolside
Christmas Vibes Pool Party
How else do you cool down the summer heat, but with a holiday party! Christmas in July (or any summer month) is going to be an absolute hit with your guests. Jingle Bells playing around the pool? Yes, please!
I love these banners from Oriental Trading! I hosted a ‘Melekeliki Maka’ party last year, and the banner was wonderful. Bright color, stayed up well - the perfect design. This is the perfect backdrop for tons of great pictures, too!
Luau Santa Backdrop - 3 Pc. | Oriental Trading
These could not be more perfect for a Christmas pool party, especially at night! And what a way to greet your guests when they arrive. I love the color, the light and the impact it brings to a summertime holiday party.
Lighted Red and Green Leis
These adorable ornaments make it so easy to take your Christmas tree to poolside holiday! Guests will love checking out the fun designs. Add either regular white lights or tropical themed lights, and you're set!
Chunful 30pcs Summer Tree Ornaments Wood
Perfect over your buffet or dessert table, this banner is a great addition to your decor, and encourages people to get in the pool - because yes, it IS warm outside!
July Summer Tropical Christmas Banner - Party Decor
The perfect complement to the banner, I think this happy, surfin' Santa brings such a touch of whimsy to the party! These are great for drinks and snacks, and safe around the pool, too.
9 oz. Luau Santa Beach & Surfboard Disposable Paper Cups - 8 Ct. | Oriental Trading
Can you see it - a margarita with a holiday drink umbrella? I love these to add a personalized touch to drinks, appetizers trays, etc. Grab these, find a fun cocktail at Decadent Parties, and get ready to have a blast!
200 PCS Christmas Drink Umbrellas & Picks
I am in love with these little guys! And how perfect for a holiday pool party! The more of these, the better for tossing around the pool.
Christmas -themed Beach Balls
I can't even - how cute are these! Talk about bringing the vibe to life! And as a 4-pack, you'll have plenty for people to share and enjoy. I love the look of these, while still being practical for people to use in the pool.
Seenelling 4 Pcs Christmas Inflatable Wreath
Bring all of the serveware decor together and really bring the vibe home with this complete partyware set from Amazon! Another happy Santa digging the warm weather and party vibes, guests will absolutely adore these!
Christmas in July Party Set 151PCS for 25
If you just want to get all of your serveware and some decor in one order, THIS is it! I'm loving all of the items in this complete set. And guests are going to get such a kick out of the fun, whimsical designs! You can't miss with this one!
142pcs Summer Beach Hawaiian Santa Tableware
I love the idea that you can get sunscreen in a larger size like this - and with a pump. Perfect for keeping everyone safe during the party.
18.0 oz PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50 Sunscreen with Sunflower Extract - Supergoop! | Ulta Beauty
Who knew there were soooo many adorable Christmas bathing suits! I'm loving this one, but you have to check them all out on Etsy. Guests will be floored with how you bring the theme to life!
Women's Christmas Santa One-Piece Swimsuit: Pink Holiday Beachwear
…and we can't forget the guys! Truly unique designs that guys are going to love to sport during your holiday pool party. This is THE bathing suit attire you need for this party!
Christmas Printed Men's Swim Trunks, Beach Swimming Trunks, Resort Wear, Bathing Surfing Shorts, Holiday Shorts, Men's Christmas Gifts
For easy guest favors, fill small stockings with sunscreen, lip balm and some fun or silly sunglasses. It's a wonderful holiday gesture, while also ensuring everyone has sun protection.
Mini Stockings - Amazon.com
A stocking stuffer perfect for the pool. Add these to stockings around the pool, or to a mini stocking for each guest. Keep guests protected from the sun with a great, quality sunscreen.
Neutrogena Beach Defense Sunscreen Lotion - SPF 70 - 1 fl oz: Oil-Free & Travel-Size, Unscented Homosalate Formula
The Flamingo Fiesta
Flamingos are just happy, aren't they? And this is a theme great for kids or adults, as well as more elegant, elevated parties around the pool. Check out my favorites here - you'll be seeing pink, too!
I can't stand how cute these beach balls are! And the all-over design really brings the pink to the pool. Guests are going to love tossing these around and having fun! You can also use them as decor - hang from umbrellas, use on tables, etc. I don't even have a pool and I want these!
Flamingo beach balls
There are SO MANY WAYS to incorporate these into your flamingo pool party! Use to line the entrance to the party, use around serving tables, line them around the perimeter of your yard. The color and look of these are a must-have.
Small Pink Flamingo Yard Ornament Stakes 6 Pack | Wayfair
Shots anyone? Making a fun welcome shot or serving one during a party puts everyone in a happy mood! Imagine mixing up a shot with pink lemonade or a touch of grenadine - they're sure to be a hit, especially when served in an adorable cup like this. Cheers!
Luau Flamingo BPA-Free Plastic Shot Glasses - 24 Ct. | Oriental Trading
I love the look of this banner, especially if you're hosting a ladies' party or brunch. Simple, with a mix of colors that really pop. Perfect for so many spaces throughout the party.
Flamingo Pattern Summer Garland Flag Decoration for Pool Party ...
What a unique combo of items from Target! Don't mix the favor gift boxes and the mini-treat boxes to share with guests and serve treats. And those flamingo Christmas crackers - so unique!
Flamingo : Pink Party Supplies : Target
Another fantastic color combination with the pink flamingos from Michael's! Hanging these from umbrellas or across string lights will make the perfect flamingo statement.
Flamingo Party Supplies, Hawaiian Party Decorations ... - Michaels
Oh. My. Goodness. Can you see this balloon arch around your pool?? Use it to welcome guests, make your serving table standout, or just include around the side of your pool to bring the wow factor. And can you imagine the Insta pics! This one is a winner!
Summer Tropical Flamingo Party Decorations,167Pcs Hot Pink ...
Speaking of Insta pics - photo props are so much fun, and encourage your guests to take pics to remember this epic party. I'm loving these colors and designs - really bright and festive!
Big Dot of Happiness Pink Flamingo - Party Like a Pineapple
Another great lighting option, these string lights plug in, and would be perfect around an umbrella, tent or table. They're just so eye-catching, and perfect for a party you host in the evening.
Flamingo String Lights | Oriental Trading
How can you go wrong with these flamingo suits! The colors and patterns are spectacular, and will really have you living the theme in a big way. Check out all the designs! You're sure to find one you like.
His and Hers Tropical Flamingo Swimsuits - Matching Couples Bathing Suits for Honeymoon Vacation
I love the pretty pink of the flamingo candies! perfect for gift bags, on cupcakes or just to serve on their own. For the big kids, soak them in lemonade or citrus vodka for a boozy treat. ;)
Gummi Pink Flamingos
Awww - aren't these just too cute to eat? But talk about a fun treat or favor to share at your Flamingo Fiesta. Just one more way to incorporate that pop of pink and delight guests.
Flamingo lollipops
How perfect are these if you're Flamingo Party is going to take you and your guests into the evening! And because they're solar, you get so much flexibility when it comes to where you can place them. I personally love the pictures where they're placed in floral decor.
Touch of ECO Outdoor Solar Powered Led Decorative Garden Stake Light - 2 Pack Pink Flamingo | Wayfair
Another lighting option I love are these flamingo lights that include the flamingo faces! They just look happy, and ready to party! Perfect for a flamingo party, luau or any beach party you're hosting.
The Party Aisle™ Canion 10 Lt Flamingo Light & Reviews | Wayfair
Under the Sea Splashfest
This one is just too fun. Don't miss the jellyfish decor (a favorite) and ways to bring movie fun into the party, too. Nemo would love to come to this event!
I AM OBSESSED. How perfect are these for an Under the Sea party! So unique, and the colors are stunning. I love unique decor that really sets the vibe, and I think this is it. Don't pass these up!
ADLKGG Jellyfish Paper Lanterns - Pink Purple Blue
Another balloon sculpture for the adventurous, I think these colors perfectly embody the colors of the sea. For an adult party that you may be looking to elevate, I find this to be a truly lovely focal point for your space around the pool.
Under the Sea Balloon Arch 139PCS Set
This is fabulous. This is how you greet your guests and create the feeling of truly being under the sea. Great color, adds some light and perfect for an evening party. You may just keep this around your pool all summer long!
Costway 6.5 Ft Inflatable Tentacles Blow up Octopus Legs Window Decoration with LED Lights
For hosting a more formal event (perhaps this is a birthday party or shower), don't forget invitations that capture the theme! I'm such a fan of Zazzle, and these designs are beautiful. Plus, it's so easy to customize! It will be hard to pick out your favorite design!
Oneder The Sea Birthday Invitations & Birthday Party Invites | Zazzle
The versatility of this blow-up decor is really fantastic! I'm a personal fan of using it as a cooler to add drinks, pre-made cocktails or Jello shots. Use a few of these around your pool space for a pop of interest.
Gemscream Inflatable Seashell Pool Float Cooler
This just cracks me up, and will have your friends and guests giggling, too! You need to have fun floats in the pool, right!? This one is perfect for the party, and all summer long.
Jasonwell Inflatable Shark Pool Float Tube
Please promise me, that if you get this pool float, you also have “Jaws” playing on a big screen! Talk about a focal point of the pool! I like the size of this pool float, and can only imagine all of the Insta pics you'll be seeing the next day!
Giant Shark Inflatable Pool Float Raft
I have no words - I think I'm in love! I'm leaning in hard on sharks for this party, but I can't help it - so many imaginative products and ways to create an Under the Sea theme! This one will have people talking - and munching! - their way through the party,
Shark Charcuterie Board & Ceramic Taco Holder
Who knew sea creatures could be so darn cute! This complete set of serveware means you have it all covered - from the plates to the serveware, it's convenient and fun! A total complement to your decor,
96 Pcs Under The Sea Plates & Napkins Set
Don't forget the lights! These string lights will create a beautiful glow over the pool, encouraging guests to float all evening long. You'll want to have several strings to really make an impact. And their perfect to add to umbrellas, around tents and serving tables.
Nautical Ocean Decor String Lights 30LED
Wow - another stunner from the Etsy seller Unhiddensun. The octopus design is classy but also vibrant, and sure to turn heads . You know you host like you have 8 hands - why not wear an octopus suit in solidarity!?
Nautical Octopus Print Women's One Piece Swimsuit, Under the Sea Marine Life
Don't forget the guys! For the men who don't like ‘over the top’ prints, this styles pays homage to the under the sea theme, while not being to ‘fishy’. :). I also think that pink is just incredible! Good news - he can wear it all summer long.
Swim Trunks -- 7-inch inseam | Old Navy
You need these - for Jell-O shots, treats, cupcakes or just to serve as a sweet treat. And I LOVE Albanese gummies - they're really delicious!
Blue Gummi Sharks - Albanese Candy
Another winner in the candy category, I'm loving the bright octopus shape. Kids and adults will get a kick out of these as they enjoy the pool ‘under the sea.’
Sour Brite Octopus - Trolli
Whether you're showing Finding Nemo, or Jaws, having an outdoor projector for movies around the pool is always a strong and exciting focal point for a party. The good news - it's something you can use all summer long! Be sure to review set up and electrical requirements before purchasing,
Outdoor Projector And Screen Packages - Amazon.com
How fun and unique is this guy? A hammerhead shark floating in the pool - and your friends floating on it - is exactly what your party needs. I love the price point, too!
Character float Hammerhead Shark Novelty Float - Sun Squad™ Aqua Blue
Guests are going to be getting in line for these! The detail is really phenomenal and I'm loving the designs. Order a few sheets of these, because people are going to want to choose a lot of designs!
Superb Temporary Tattoos - Hand drawn Summer Ocean Mermaid Fish lighthouse
This float really has me wishing summer would come - and quick! How perfect for an Under the Sea pool party. Buy some small plastic rings, and you also have a ring-toss game! The perfect pool focal point.
Giant Octopus Pool Float
THE EDM Glow Party!
It's the glow party with the edgier vibe, incorporating EDM music or K-Pop is the way to give this party a funky, high-energy feel. So many ways to bring this one to life - do not forget the body art supplies!
For those EDM aficianados who know what the festival life is all about, these t-shirts for men and women are the perfect complement to an EDM pool party or event! These owls came to party - and so did you!
OwlCultureCo - Etsy
This is the kind of party where everyone needs to get into the act - and these glow sticks and accessories help everyone do just that! I love that this pack has so many versatile pieces for everyone.
Bulk 250 Pc. Plastic Glow Sticks & Accessories Party Pack | Oriental Trading
You've gotta have those props ready for outstanding pictures! These props make for the perfect pictures, and look great at night.
Neon Glow Party Photo Stick Props- 12 Pc. | Oriental Trading
To illuminate your glow party, this lighting set is pretty much an essential for creating strong flourescent color. Placed around the pool, this will create an absolutely stunning setting in and around your party! Be sure to check installation and electrical details before buying.
The Holiday Aisle® Uv Led Black Light Bar Set - 4 Pack Neon Glow Party Lights For Halloween, Club, Stage Decor | Wayfair
Another lighting option that's a stunner, I love incorporating lights with movement, especially when you know you're going to be pumping so great EDM throughout the party. Check these out and have fun finding all the right places to place them! Check electrical and setup instructions for details before buying.
UV Black Lights for Glow Party, 6W Disco Ball LED Party Lights Sound Activated with Remote Control, 7 Modes Stage Light for UV Party
You cannot have an EDM party without the soundtrack. While there are a lot of playlists to choose from, Spotify has some really unique party options. See which one is the best - but I'll bet this is the one you keep coming back to!
100 Most Iconic EDM Songs - playlist by Ray Fontaine | Spotify
It's so easy to get guests engaged with the vibe of this party when they can decorate themselves! Watch the party come to life when you use these and provide them for guests. Want to take it over-the-top? Have a local artist or face painter on hand to create gorgeous works of art on your guests!
8 Glow in the Dark Body Paint Markers, UV Neon Face Paint Markers, Glow Face Painting Kit
Create a vibrant-colored candy bar with your favorites to give guests a sugar-boost and have sweet treats along the way! And let's face it - these candies have neon in the name so you know they're perfect.
Lifesavers® Neons Gummies 7oz - Five Below
What more can I say about this. They're perfect. ;)
colorful lollipop assortment
I just can't stop - I'm having so much fun finding super-unique candy recipes for your glow party! Mix-and-match a variety of options to surprise and delight your guests.
3 oz. Pop Rocks® Assorted Fruit-Flavored Hard Candy Pouches - 12 Pc. | Oriental Trading
This is EXACTLY what an EDM glow pool party needs - bring the light to the pool with this vibrant decor! Not only will you enjoy them for your party, you'll find you'll be using them all summer long whenever you entertain.
Floating Solar Pool Light 14” Color LED
Yes, yes and yes! What a unique and colorful way to bring the glow to your pool party! I love the practicality of this item, too. What a spectactular way to bring a glow-up to your pool!
Solar Pool Chlorine Floater w/ Remote & Lights
Men, pay attention. This one's for you! This needs to be on your ‘must-have’ list for your glow party…and all summer long! This could not be more perfect for a glow party. Don't wait on this one!
Neon Nightcap Stretch Swim Trunks: Men's Summer Outfits | Tipsy Elves
The Etsy sellers are doing it again! This time BigTexFunkadelic is bringing the glow to this suit. I think the alien design is also a super-cool print for the party, too. As the host or the guest, you will be glowing all night long!
Purple Alien Vapor Glitch One-Piece Swimsuit
Check this out! Who would want to put their glass down when it looks like this! I'm loving the unique design - and it's another way to give guests the glow-up, too.
Glo Pro Glow Party Cups 16oz with Glow Sticks
When the sun goes down, this lawn bowling game will be the hit in the backyard! It's truly a ‘fun for all ages’ kind of game everyone will enjoy!
Glow Games LED Glow Lawn Bowling Set - 7pc: Outdoor Game with Lights for Ages 4+
Mardi Gras Poolside
Let the good times roll with this theme! Unexpected for a pool party, but such a feast for the eyes. I'm loving all of the fun ways to execute this one.
You can't have a Mardi Gras party without hurricanes! And these colorful, reusable glasses are perfect for poolside. It's so easy to create that Mardi Gras feel with these in hand!
14 oz. Assorted Neon Reusable Plastic Hurricane Glasses - 12 Ct. | Oriental Trading
You want to make a statement, right! THIS is the way to do it! I love this arch as a way to greet guests, or sit at the end of the pool for dramatic effect. Perfect for setting the tone and vibe for the day or evening!
10FT Mardi Gras Inflatable Arch LED Lights
You need authentic Mardi Gras lights for your Mardi Gras bash - and this is where to get them! Light up the pool and the evening with these lights perfect for setting the vibe. You'll find so many places to incorporate them to make a statement!
Purple, Green, and Gold 50ct LED Light Strand
Did you know you could get a Mardi Gras bikini!? As the hostess of the party, you will wow guests and show you truly let the good times roll with this suit. Talk about bringing the theme to life! Too fun!
Women Mardi Gras Gold Mask One-Piece Swimsuit
You can't forget the guys! Mardi Gras swim trunks will take the party over-the-top for anyone and everyone attending. Perfect for hosting or attending as a guest, these are just fantastic and set the tone perfectly.
joogoo Men's Swim Trunks Mardi Gras Pattern Beach Shorts with Pockets M - Walmart.com
I love the look of all the garland From Toomey's, an authentic vendor for all things Mardi Gras. It's an easy way to bring all the gorgeous color of Mardi Gras to your party. Day or night, this garland will shine!
PGG 4" x 4 x 9' Tinsel Garland
I feel like this is a given, but I had to add this to make it easy to find beads and accessories for your guests. These are also great for decor on food and dessert tables, and draped on umbrellas.
Mardi Gras Beads - Amazon.com
I'm a big fan of Liquor.com, and when I'm looking for the authentic ingredients for classic drinks, that's my go-to resource. Because hurricanes are so central to New Orleans, I had to pass along the drink recipe. Cheers!
Hurricane Cocktail Recipe - Liquor.com
I've used this recipe when I've made King Cakes, and it's so delicious! It takes some time, but it's so good - and guests agree. Don't forget to hide the baby when you make this one. ;)
King Cake | Two Plaid Aprons
These ducks are ready to let the good times roll! Get plenty because guests are going to love floating around with these guys. Also makes the perfect favor for people to take with them when they leave the pool. Highly rated by customers, too!
One Dozen (12) Rubber Duckie Ducky Duck MARDI GRAS Party Favors