Bathing suite are a must, but the masks are optional.
For a summer birthday party that beats the heat and goes beyond the standard pool party, try one of these ideas. Easily adaptable to kids of any age or adults who are kids at heart, you can customize these ideas with a water-themed birthday cake and cuisine of your choice. If guests need to bring any special attire, note that on your invitation. Does this Spark an idea?
Water Party Games
Incorporate water into any backyard birthday party with water-themed games. Arm guests will water guns (or tell them to bring their own) and divide them into teams. Let them scavenge the yard for a manhunt-inspired soak-out. Fill water balloons before the children come for dodgeball. If your yard has a slope, create a slippery slide. Depending on the age range of the guests, some games may be more appropriate than others.
Luau
Combine your water-themed birthday party with a Hawaiian pig roast for a luau party. For an adult party, add tropical rum drinks like the mai tai or pina colada. Decorate the pool area with tiki torches and allow the guests to use the pool while the pig roasts over a fire pit. A luau party for kids can have water games, swim time or beach volleyball activities. Adults may prefer a cocktail hour with light swimming or sunbathing by the pool. Make the birthday cake coconut flavored for a tropical tie-in.
Pirate Party
For a themed pool party suitable for adventurous types, host a pirate birthday party. You can provide guests with party bags of pirate hats, eye patches and other regalia. Have guests create or decorate their own pirate ship out of milk cartons, then hold a pirate ship race in the swimming pool. For added fun, fill the pool with inflatable alligators and other sea creatures. End the games with a scavenger hunt for treasure, and hide a gift certificate, toy or candy at the end point.
Outdoor Adventure
Take teens or adults on an outdoor water adventure with a small group of friends. Try fishing or boating or arrange a surf lesson for everyone. Pack a picnic supply or end the night with a potluck or dinner at an oceanside fish shack. Whether your birthday friend prefers to sunbathe, snorkel, dig for clams or try kitesurfing, an outdoor water adventure can help celebrate the special birthday.
Hot Tub Spa Party
Plan a spa day birthday party that starts with manicures and makeup and ends with a relaxing hot tub experience for the birthday girl and her guests. Let guests know to bring a bathing suit. You can hire a cosmetologist to help with makeup and manicures, look for a beauty school student who wouldn't mind some extra cash or recruit a couple of friends to help out. If it's a hot tub party for guys, skip the manicures and play party games, pool or sports and do the hot tub afterward.
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