Hosting the Perfect July 4th Pool Party

Have a party coming up to celebrate the 4th of July? Well, we have some tips to help you make your party the one everyone will remember. No time to waste, it’s right around the corner!

Decorations and music:
Red, white and blue can be used throughout the pool area to add a ‘patriotic’ vibe. At your local party store, you can find simple decorative plates, flags, napkins, etc. However, to add a bit of creativity to it, you can find American flag floaties or inner tubes and throw them into the pool, or roll-up a few red, blue and white towels and have them set aside for those who enjoy the pool and need to dry off after. Another simple, yet creative decoration is to add colorful paper straws to mason jars. Or again using a mason jar, use colored blue and red rice and create layers of white rice in the jar along with the blue and red and place a tea candle at the top for lighting later in the evening. Also, be sure to turn on some low-level tunes to add a nice vibe to the party.

Food:
Get creative with your dishes! Keep in mind finger foods are the perfect party foods, so have dishes your guests can eat with their fingers. A great way to save on decorations and feed your guests is to get creative with your food dishes. A simple and easy idea would be layering blueberries, strawberries and marshmallows on skewer stick. Or make some red, white and blue cookies cups. Check out this delicious recipe here: https://hungryhappenings.com/red-white-and-blue-cookie-cups/

Grilling out burgers and hot dogs is an easy and simple way to serve food as well, especially when you are cooking for a large group. Also take note, that many people eat differently, so be sure have a wide variety of foods to ensure all your guests are happy and feed.

Prepare your pool:
Clear the pool deck of any clutter. Remove everything you can except furniture, pool toys and necessary pool accessories. Check your deck for any cracks or chips and repair what you can to make sure your guests are safe. If you can’t repair it, try using furniture to cover up the broken areas.

Also, be sure to test and balance your pool water, and check your pool pump in advance, so the water is safe, clean and comfortable for your guests.

For the adults:
Creating a party drink for your gathering adds a level of fun to your gathering. Be it a traditional margarita or creating your own signature drink. (Tip: Frozen drinks are fun for those hot summer nights). Whichever you decide, be sure to have options for people and have plenty of drinks for your adult guests. Also, be sure you have water available, don’t forget the basics. It’s hot out there, so water is necessary to make sure your guests stay hydrated.

For the kids:
Fun drinks, games and of course sparklers! Simple creative drinks can add so much fun for the kids. Like these Ocean Water drinks.

Recipe:

• 3 ounces of blue fruit punch
• 2 ounces of 7UP or Sprite
• 2 teaspoons of sweetened lime juice
• 1 tablespoon of pineapple juice
• Red gummy fish
• Lime wedges

A few games, in and out of the pool will keep the kids having fun as well. A simple ‘Treasure Hunt’ can entertain them for some time. Grab a handful of coins and throw them in the pool for the kids to dive down and get.

Sparklers for when the sun goes down are a tradition of the 4th. However, keeping everyone safe can be a bit challenging. A great way to ensure the safety of your guests is to use the red cups and a barrier, prepare your ‘Sparkler Cups’ in advance so it’s easy to manage during the party.

Have Fun!

Often times when we plan parties, we want it to go well, so in turn we run around cleaning up, trying to replace food that is diminishing, making drinks, etc. Make sure your guests are happy and enjoying themselves BUT, please, don’t forget the point of the party, to have fun and that includes you! Enjoy yourself, mingle and be sure to laugh.

Here’s to a safe and happy 4th!