Theme Party Ideas for Summer

Summer and parties go hand-in-hand. Maybe it's due to the longer days. Maybe it's because of all the sunshine. Or, maybe everyone is just feeling a little bit more relaxed and carefree. Between graduations and holidays and extra time off, there are plenty of reasons to party. But who says you can't throw a party anytime you'd like? Summer itself is cause enough for celebration.

For the next shindig you plan, why not get creative and come up with a theme? Theme parties as an adult aren't that much different than when you're a kid except there might be some 21+ drinks involved. It makes everyone get involved. It gets a little bit silly. And, it will definitely make for some good photos and memories.

By selecting a theme, you can really go crazy with the decorations, the food, and having everyone dress up accordingly. If your crowd goes all out, then plan for prizes for whoever matches the theme the best.

Not sure how to start planning your next theme party? Here are a few ideas that will take you through the summer.

Beach Bum Party

This one is a no-brainer. It's easy. It's fun. And, everyone can participate without having to spend too much extra money and effort to dress up. Board shorts, bathing suits, straw hats, and other swim gear are all welcome. Flip flops are the shoe of choice and of course, don't forget the floaties, regardless of if your party is actually at a pool. But if you don't have a pool, consider getting a blow-up kiddie pool and a slip-and-slide to kick up the fun a notch.

Menu: Marinate and grill chicken and skirt steak to create a make-your-own taco station complete with all the fixings, including big bowls of homemade salsa. Stick Otter Pops in a bucket full of ice and make sure the drinks are cold and plentiful.

Decor: Buy palm tree-shaped streamers and blow-up flamingos to decorate your space. Dress the tables with grass skirts and buy paper drink umbrellas to make each cocktail feel more tropical. Put on relaxing tunes like Jack Johnson or Kenny Chesney to play up the beach vibe.

90s Party

Who doesn't love the 90s? The hair! The clothes! The neon! It's fun to party from a different decade and bring back all the trends that were popular way back when. Tight-rolled jeans, neon clothing, and scrunchies are all welcome to this throwback party. Extra bonus if you have slap bracelets to bring back the memories.

Menu: The 90s were all about having fun. Diets were definitely not as crazy as they are now. Order a few pizzas and go simple with ruffled potato chips and dip. Fill bowls with Little Debbie snacks for nostalgic sweet treats.

Decor: Hang beads or streamers from a door. Set up bean bags around for people to sit in. Have a popular 90's sitcom or movie playing in the background as everyone mingles. Or, play the greatest hits from the 90s and let everyone dance. Pandora has a "Summer Hits of the 90s" station. New Kids on the Block or MC Hammer anyone?

Beer Olympics Party

Let the (drinking) games begin! Set up different stations with games like beer pong, flip cup, and quarters and let your friends' competitive spirits come out. As the host, you have the honor of being Team America and choosing your teammates. Make sure everyone is wearing American flag shorts, shirts, and/or hats to really show your spirit. Organize the other teams ahead of time and create a bracket. Have each team throw in some money and give the cash to whoever wins the whole competition.

Menu: Keep it easy with hamburgers and hot dogs, but keep with the Olympics theme and choose a selection of beers from all around the world. If you plan to have the party go into the evening, get marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers for S'mores.

Decor: Red, white, and blue will work for Team America, but allow each represented team sport their own country's colors. If you plan it right, you can have your Beer Olympics Party coincide with the 4th of July. Win/win for everyone!

What kind of theme party do you think your friends will go for? You have a lot of options and can interpret the themes however you want. These kind of parties are about honing in on a theme and sticking with it. Get ideas from all your friends and then choose a few favorites. Make summer last longer by throwing a few soirees that are full of festive outfits, food, and decor.

Have any party tips to share?