How to Throw a Pool Party

There's nothing quite like the fun of a pool party in the summertime. To make them unforgettable, you'll need to plan your pool party ahead of time. Here's how to throw a pool party that everyone will be talking about:

1. Find a pool. Throwing a pool party is easiest when you have your own pool, of course. If you don't, consider throwing a pool party with a friend who has a pool. Before throwing a pool party, make sure the pool is sparkling clean. If you can't find a pool to use, consider having a party at a local public pool. Many even offer birthday packages or special party rooms for before or after the swimming.
2. Make the invitations. First you'll need to decide who is to be invited. The size of the pool will dictate the number of people you can invite. Keep in mind that, especially if you are hosting the pool party at your home, not everyone will be in the pool at the same time. Send a memorable invitation with a pool party theme.
3. Get decorations. You can keep it simple, or go all-out with seashells, tiki torches, hula skirts, and other tropically-themed decorations.
4. Buy water toys. Don't forget to plan for a lot of fun pool games, like Marco Polo or volleyball. Buy some inflatable beach balls, squirt guns, or other fun water toys. Goggles, flippers, or inflatable rafts can also be fun additions to your pool, depending on its size. If there will be young children around, have a few pairs of water wings on hand in case a few have forgotten to bring them.
5. Plan activities.  Besides swimming, you'll need to have fun things to do outside of the pool. Plan fun games, or buy a piñata. Make sure that you have enough adults to watch the children both in the pool and out.
6. Plan the food. You can tie your food to a theme, make it a potluck, or even simply buy pizzas. Pool parties are also a great opportunity to barbecue. Make sure that you have enough food to last for the whole party. Make sure you plan foods that will not keep you in the kitchen all day, or you'll miss your own party. In the evening, consider making s'mores over the barbecue. If you have a fire pit, make a campfire once everyone's out of the pool.
7. Make beverages. Fruit punch or lemonade are both great on a hot summer day. Stick a paper umbrella into each drink to continue the pool party theme.

A pool party will often become the highlight of the summer for both you and your guests. Whether you're celebrating the beginning or end of the summer, a graduation or birthday, or just throwing a pool party for fun, make sure you plan ahead to make yours the most memorable party of the summer.