Today’s pool owners are taking full advantage of their investment by creating a new part of their lifestyle around their pool. Following are some ideas for pool parties you can host with a little preparation and planning.
January: Beat the Blues by the Pool
Once the hectic holidays are over, most people are feeling a little blue in mid- to late January. Why not try a progressive pool party? Like a progressive dinner, a few (or more) families join together, and each hosts part of the evening. From munchies to main meals to coffee and dessert, everyone shares in the planning, costs and the beat-the-blues fun!
February: For Cupid’s Couples Only
Candlelight, music, dinner and beverage – a perfect way for couples to share a romantic evening by the pool. Whether you celebrate Cupid before or after February 14, create a heartfelt night for one couple or many, and don’t forget to enjoy a midnight swim – a perfect end to a perfect pool date.
March: My March Pool Madness
Are you ready for college basketball tourney madness? Show your support for your favorite team – get your hats, T-shirts, banners and cry towels – and meet me at the pool. For fun or competition, co-ed pool hoops teams are a must. Earn fun prizes together and finish up with a cookout. No one will even think about turning on the TV – unless it’s outdoors.
April: Garden Pool Party
Create your own garden party! Guests arrive with their favorite gardening secrets or plants, or perhaps add a secret surprise gift exchange. Everyone knows that a garden needs plenty of water, so get in the pool – relax, enjoy and soak in the pleasure of your garden pool party.
May: May Showers
A bridal shower? A baby shower? A graduation shower? Your pool will make the picture-perfect spot for the bride-to-be, an expectant couple or a student to capture special memories of a memorable time in their lives. Hosted on your own or with a group of friends, you and your guests will remember this once-in-a-lifetime celebration.
September: Back-to-School Splash
With Labor Day comes the official end of summer, and the back-to-school blahs take over for most students. What a great time to extend the pool season by inviting classmates (and parents/teachers if desired) to get together, and renew friendships and make new ones. Keep cool by the pool and add your own theme, perhaps with a wacky hat contest with plenty of games, activities and fun for all.
October: Tricks and Treats by the Pool
Get spooked in the coolest way by hosting the young and the young at heart at your backyard pool. Halloween decorations are a must and, with your natural night light, let your ghostly imagination take over. Create your own unique costume themes (bathing suits included) and refreshments to brew up a magical party that guests will be screaming about.
November: Turkey Barbeque
Start a new family tradition with a turkey barbeque by the pool. Everyone brings their favorite Thanksgiving dish, and whether or not the turkey is actually cooked on the open fire or in the kitchen oven, everyone can enjoy the traditional day of thanks in a non-traditional, but most memorable way by your pool. Last one in the pool is a real turkey!
December: Independence in December
Maybe you’ve heard of Christmas in July? Well, turn your backyard escape into a sparkling holiday retreat that everyone will be cheering about. Complete with Santa decked out in red, white and blue, let your patriotism shine through for your guests. The theme is set, costumes should be encouraged, and food and drink should be an all-American affair. Fireworks are optional (as local laws permit) but, remember, first one in the pool gets the biggest present!