Summer Party Tips, Themes and Ideas

Beach Cupcakes The Ultimate Summer Cupcake

Your favorite parts of the summer packed into an easy to make cupcake treat.

Low Cal Cocktail Low Cal Watermelon Mojito

Sip on something sweet yet bathing suit friendly with this low cal drink recipe.

Low Cal Cocktail Crawling Crab Cupcakes

These cupcakes may look crabby, but deep down they're undeniably sweet!




Summer Party Ideas

Inspiration

Glow Stick Summer Party Ideas

If you are hosting an outdoor summer soiree, we've got some amazing party ideas using glow sticks! You'll add some serious color to your decor not to mention light up the night!
Inspiration

DIY Yard Decoration Ideas for Summer

Drink

'Skinny' Warm Weather Cocktail Recipes

You don't have to give up your favorite summer cocktails just because you're watching calories! We have two 'skinny' recipes of our favorite cocktails - the Mojito and the Greyhound to try right now!
Inspiration

Fun DIY Summer Craft Ideas

This summer, roll up your sleeves for some great summertime crafting. Try making this unique craft to carry drinks to your next summer party or a pretty drink stirrer for your lemonade!
Inspiration

Plan a Fun Splish Splash Pool Party

Fun in the sun wouldn't be complete without a pool party to beat the heat with. We found a few cool ideas you can incorporate into your splish splash pool party.
Inspiration

Summer Party Inspirations

Summer party season is fast approaching and if you're looking for a few neat ideas, look no further! Here's some creative ideas you can incorporate into your summer soiree this year.
Recipe

Lemon Citrus Ice Cream Soda

The perfect summer party needs the perfect summer treat, and boy have we got a mouth-watering treat for you! Your guests won't think lemons are sour after this delightful dessert!
Inspiration

Table Settings and Menu for a Bohemian Style Party

A bohemian backdrop and centerpiece is great, but what will really bring your Bohemian party together is seating pillows and tables with a rustic charm. We've got the how-to for a table setting that is oh so boho chic!
Inspiration

Flower Pot Ideas for Summer

Don't forget to decorate outside for your summer! Check out these fun ideas that updates ordinary flower pots into pretty decorations for the exterior of your home.
Inspiration

Cool Off with Spiked Popsicle Ideas

Want the best of both worlds at your summer shindig? You and your guests can cool off and enjoy your favorite cocktail with one of our 8 Favorite Spiked Popsicle recipes we've gathered.
Inspiration

Father's Day Ideas Dad Will Love

Father's Day is in June so have the kids make something custom and cute. Check out some of these creative DIY Father's Day craft ideas.
Recipe

Mini S'mores Cupcake Dessert Recipe

Nothing says summer like S'mores, and nothing says dessert like cupcakes, so we've taken the best of both worlds and combined them into these amazingly delicious mini s'mores "cupcakes". Topped with chocolate and perfectly bite-sized, these summer treats are sure to be a hit.
Drink

Boozy Popsicle Recipes

Lounge poolside and keep cool with one of these delicious boozy popsicles. Grown-up and sophisticated, we're betting you'll appreciate these clever spiked desserts as much as we do!
Activity

10 Lazy Ideas for the First Day of Summer Vacation

While you can pack lots of fun, entertaining activities for the kids into the rest of summer, enjoy a lazy first day. It's good for them and for you to take a day off from schedules after a long school year filled with them. Here are 10 ways to laze about - in case you've forgotten!
Drink

Summer Mocktails for Moms-to-Be

Moms-to-Be deserve a special sip just like the rest of us this summer! We've got 3 mama-mocktails we bet anyone looking to avoid alcohol will enjoy.
Real Party

Family Rules! Tips & Ideas to Plan a Family Reunion

Summer is the season for family reunions. Whether you're family is all centrally located or scattered about the country, we've got the tips, ideas and inspiration to help you plan a big family summer party of your own!
Drink

Mojitos to Make Now

Summer 2012 is the year of the mojito here at Celebrations. We're having such fun experimenting with new takes on the classic - check out some of the latest mojito concoctions we've come up with and make one now!
Playlist

The Summer Party Playlist to Listen to Now!

No summer is complete without blasting a few hits of the season on full volume. I gathered up my top 10 songs for the summer of 2012 for a party playlist you can crank up at your outdoor party or while you're working away at your desk. Listen to these songs now for an instant pick-me-up!
Decoration

3 Repurposed Decor Ideas for a Summer Dinner Party at Home

What do mason jars and sheets have in common? You probably own more than a few and they are both great resources when you want to create a summer oasis out in your yard for a dinner party. Check out the inspiration we're loving for repurposing what you have to decorate!
Craft

7 Edible Watermelon Craft Ideas

Get creative with your watermelon this summer by trying out these fun crafts for your next party. Check out these ideas including a keg, cake and shark all made from our favorite summer fruit!
Tip

Easy Expert End of Summer Party Tips

Turn prepping and serving your food into an easy, stress-free task with these tips from expert Mark Addison.
Inspiration

15 Reasons Why Summer Weekends Rock

Summer weekends are one of the best things about the season. Here are our top 15 reasons why they rock.
Drink

Spiked Summer Shake Recipes

Friends will appreciate just about any summer dessert you serve them, but they'll really go crazy for one of our spiked summer shakes. These grown-up treats have all the refreshing sweet flavors you'd expect them to have, but there's the added surprise of some alcohol to turn them into a summer party surprise.
Tip

Shop Smart & Think Creatively: Tips to Save This Summer

Save big on summer entertaining by shopping smart and getting creative in the kitchen. We've got some tried and true tips to cutting costs as well as a video full of delicious proof it works!
Activity

Plan a Play-doh Playdate When Summer Temps Soar

When summer temps climb so high they reach triple digits there are two options - become a fish, or stay in the AC. If you don't have a pool or beach, but you have little ones, this could prove extra tough, but not to worry. Our contributor Karen as a fun time planned to keep kids (and you) happy for hours.
Decoration

Decorating A Luau with a Modern Twist

This season, instead of strapping on the coconut bra and throwing on the paper leis, throw a chic luau for your friends and family!
Inspiration

10 Ways Teachers Should Celebrate the Start of Summer

Teachers look forward to summer vacation just as much, if not more, as the kids do when June rolls around. Our contributor, Michele Anderson, is a mom and teacher to boot and she's got 10 ways she'll be celebrating summer vacation with her fellow educators - nail polish, included.
Inspiration

Team USA Hotties: Olympian Bodies We're Celebrating

In preparation for the Summer Olympics in London, we decided to round up some of the best US mens team bodies that we hope will bring home the gold! From previous champs like Michael Phelps to a few lesser known hotties like Nathan Adrian, check these athletes who have the bodies to back up the talent.
Recipe

10 Recipes with Beer You Never Thought to Make

August 5th is International Beer Day and to celebrate the brews that bring buds together like no other sip, we've rounded up 10 beer recipes you'd never thought to try, but should. Celebrate this summer by giving one a go!
Inspiration

Best Shots of Olympians Celebrating a Win

Summer 2012 is sure to be filled with lots of celebrating thanks to the Olympic games. Check out some of our favorite shots of former Olympians celebrating their triumph!
Inspiration

10 Impressive Pups Who'd Win the Olympic Gold if They Could

The summer Olympic Games bring the world together once every four years, but these pups could start a party anywhere at any time. Check out the 10 impressive pups we found - they all deserve a gold medal!
Story

Then & Now: Summer Beach Days

Summer days spent at the beach might have changed a bit since your high school days now that you're a mom with kids in tow, but there are some things that haven't. Bring back memories and celebrate the best beach days with this fun story from contributor Michele Anderson.
Tip

Tips to Throwing a Rockstar Labor Day Party

It's the last party of the season! Make your Labor Day party fit for a rockstar with these easy tips and ideas from expert Jes Gordon.
Inspiration

Celebrating Ramadan

We rounded up some popular food ideas from around the world that are enjoyed during the month of Ramadan. From reinventing how to serve the popular dates treat to a delicious deep fried fritter full of goodness, these foods are yummy enough for anyone to enjoy throughout the year.
Decoration

Sweet Sand Dollar Decoration for Summer

Bring the beauty of the beach to your home with this sweet and easy summer craft and decor idea. It's inexpensive and simple, but will add a soft seasonal touch to your next summer party.
Inspiration

Easy Eco Summer Tablescape Ideas

Repurpose and reuse items in your home this summer to make your party eco-chic and fabulous on a budget!
Activity

Top 10 Ways to Kick-Off Summer with the Kids

You might be surprised at how fast excitement for summer is replaced with sour thoughts in kids when boredom strikes. Avoid summer blues and keep them entertained with these top 10 ways to celebrate summer with the kids!
Playlist

Perfect Summer Party Playlists

Don't forget the music at your summer parties this season. If you're having trouble with your mix, take a peek at our favorite songs for a rock n' roll playlist, family-friendly playlist and dance party playlist this summer.
Craft

DIY Neon Utensils for Summer

Bright neon colors are THE summer party staple this year. If you're doubtful this trend will stick around for a few seasons and are thus, unwilling to spend a ton on pricey summer party supplies, you can get on board the neon bandwagon for a lot less - with this helpful tutorial!
Decoration

Everyday Summer Tablescape Idea

Don't be afraid to color block this summer! Expert Shawn Rabideau gives his tips on how to put together a fun summer tablescape for any occasion using pops of color.
Craft

DIY Summer Coastal Coasters

Summertime always makes us think beaches, boats and coasts. This simple summer craft idea makes for a lovely, yet functional decoration to use all season long.
Recipe

Watermelon Recipes for Summer Parties

Summer parties don't seem to be complete without watermelon. It's a perennial favorite of young and old alike and always a welcome addition to any picnic or get together. It's also a versatile fruit that you can use in salads, baked goods and drinks. Here are some creative and attractive ways to serve watermelon that will please even the pickiest guests!
Inspiration

10 Amazing Pools to Swim in Before You Die

Summer parties often mean lots of fun in the pool. With the arrival of the season, we've taken a few minutes to check out some of the most amazing pools around the world - these are the 10 that made our bucket list of must swim in pools before we die. We bet you'll want to take a dive in them, too!
Inspiration

Eco-Friendly Summer Entertaining Tips

Hosting an eco-friendly summer party this year is easy with a few great DIY tips and table suggestions from expert Mark Addison.
Real Party

2012 Olympics Party for Kids

The 2012 Summer Olympics are a great opportunity to introduce your children and their friends to active games you can play out back as well as ideals like friendship, team work, diversity and international customs. Here's everything you'll need to plan a kids Olympic party this summer!
Inspiration

Math Parties for Kids

It may be summertime but that doesn't mean the kids can't practice a few math problems in a fun way. Plan a math party afternoon with some educational games, crafts and food ideas for a fun way to keep the learning going.
Tradition

Summer Olympic Torch Timeline & Game Fun Facts

The Olympic Torch (or Flame) is one of the most iconic symbols for the international games. Carried from Olympia, Greece to the host city every four years, since 1936 it's history is as rich as the modern games themselves.
Inspiration

Celebrate the Kids Heading Off to Summer Camp

Heading off to summer camp means lots of mixed emotions for the whole family. Everyone will miss one another, but there's a lot of excitement, too. Here are a few ideas to celebrate the kids heading off to summer camp - positive thoughts for parents and their children!
Activity

Best Outdoor Summer Dates

Whether it's your first date or a romantic evening with your longtime love, we've put together a list of the best outdoor summer dates that'll have sparks flying. The unofficial dating season offers so many ways to celebrate a date, so get outside and enjoy!
Inspiration

Rabido's & Rabidon'ts: Shawn's Summer Party Tips

Expert Shawn Rabideau shares his Rabido's and Rabidon'ts for a perfect summer party.
Tip

5 Budget-Tips for Summer Parties

Entertaining on a budget isn't as impossible as it may seem. We've got 5 easy to follow tips for hosting summer parties without breaking bank.
Round Up

Ice Cream Desserts for a Summer Party

Cool off at your summer party with some sweet and creamy ice cream desserts. Sure, spending your summer night eating out of the carton may seem like a good idea, but try one of these decadent recipes instead. You will enjoy your food so much more!
Inspiration

All About Gingham! 10 Ways To Incorporate It Into Your Party

Add a little (or a lot) of gingham to your next party with these 10 fun DIY and decor ideas for summer parties!
Inspiration

15 Pop Culture Dads We Love

TV and movie dads abound, but we've found 15 of our favorites. Some of them are classics you'd expect to show up here, others may surprise you with an appearance - either way they're all dads we admire!
Inspiration

National Best Friend Day & Hollywood Besties

June 8th is "National Best Friend Day" but since we celebrate our friends year round, we thought a fun way to commemorate the holiday would be to share this gallery chock full of celeb besties. Bet you'll be more than a little surprised at some of these buds!
Inspiration

Summer, Sex & Sweets - Celebrate National Wine Day

OK, so summer doesn't officially start until June, but we like to think of Memorial Day as the unofficial launch to the season. This year, National Wine Day is May 25th so we're kicking off Memorial Day weekend with a glass. Here's five reasons you should celebrate, too!
Story

Happy Father's Day to the Man who Chose to be my Dad

It is one thing to be a father by circumstance, but quite another to be one by choice - Michele Anderson's dad is one man who chose to be a dad when he didn't have to. The story of her relationship with her dad is touching and truly heartwarming, a perfect read for this time of year!
Tip

5 Tips to Keep Your Yard Party Ready

Decoration

Simple Centerpieces

KISS hard work goodbye! These simple centerpieces for summer are dainty, pretty and perfect for a summer table. Depending upon your design and the flowers you use, you can create a look for just about any party.
Gifts for Dad

5 Simple Gift Ideas Dad Will Love

Father's Day is June 17th and if you're stuck on what to get dad it's probably because you're over thinking it. Dads are easy to please - just think with your stomach. We've got a five ideas guaranteed to succeed at letting dad know how much you love him!
Decoration

Three Easy Summer Tables, Seasonal Centerpieces and Place Settings

Summer decorations are meant to brighten a room and your mood. We used three particular themes - nautical, beach inspired and playful fun - to create completely different tables that shout summer.
Playlist

Top Overplayed Summer Party Songs

Some summer party playlists have songs that have become so overplayed. We gathered list of songs you should avoid if you're looking to play summer party songs that aren't so clichéd!
Story

Summer Memories of Chasing Fireflies

Summertime means staying outdoors and enjoying longer days, but kids will really love being outside when the sun disappears and the fireflies appear. Here, a story of summer fun and memories of a kids activity that never required a screen - just a mason jar.
Tip

Tips For Throwing A Tented Event

Summer parties are often held under the wide expanse of a tent. If you're planning a big party outdoors and plan to prevent unwanted weather interference with a tent, consider these tips from Celebrations and Party Planning Expert Shawn Rabideau to make sure it looks as fabulous as it does functional.
Tip

Summer Party Planning in 5 Simple Steps

Summer parties are all about fun so why stress out when you're planning your soiree? Follow these 5 simple steps for summer party planning to ensure a stress-free process that optimizes the fun factor.
Real Party

Summer Camp at Home: Retreat Party for the Kids

Summer parties for the kids are a great way to entertain them when school lets out. Gwynn Wasson staged this summer retreat with a few nifty DIY ideas and we bet you and your kids will love them as much as we do. From teepee tent how-tos to playing with food and crafting time, the summer party ideas here are simple in nature, inexpensive in price, but totally fun.
Fun

Pool Fun: Pool Party Games

There's nothing quite as fun as a pool party during the summer. Though it's easy to have fun without any structured games, we've put together a list of age appropriate pool party fun, perfect for the entire family.
Decoration

Ice Cream Soda Bar

Wow your guests by putting together a gourmet ice cream soda bar! Use unique sodas and flavorful ice cream to create a chic atmosphere!
Craft

How To Make A Teepee

Lazing about outdoors never seemed sweeter! The kids will adore this summer craft idea for endless hours of reading, napping and playing outside, and you will, too. Easy to make with Gwynn's simple tutorial, these teepees are also incredibly economical, taking advantage of leftover bed sheets.
Recipe

Fun and Easy Father's Day Recipes: Breakfast and Lunch

As the saying goes, the best way to a man's heart is through his stomach -- especially on Father's Day! This year, get the kids involved in creating an amazing meal for Dad. For your cooking convenience, we've rounded up a list of delicious recipes with easy prep that the kids will love.
Activity

Activities for Outdoor Entertaining

How to best while away those long summer evenings, after your BBQ but before it gets dark? Check out these great group outdoor summer party games like bocce ball, sprinklers, and horseshoes.
Activity

Favorite Summer Games

Summer is a time of relaxation for all. The warm weather and lazy atmosphere that Mother Nature provides us with gives the perfect excuse to have some fun. It's hot out and the kids are cheerful, so it's a great time for some outdoor activities with the family. Fill your summer time with these games and activities for the ultimate fun in the sun
Craft

Bananagrams Party

Patti Allan describes her fun banana-themed weekend, from a game of Bananagrams with her friends to a recipe for scrumptious mini banana cakes. Read on to hear all about it!
Activity

Pool Party Games for the Family

There's nothing quite as fun as a pool party during the summer. Though it's easy to have fun without any structured games, we've put together a list of age appropriate pool party fun, perfect for the entire family.
Tip

Packing Tips for Quick Summer Trips

Thinking about getting away this summer? If so, you'll need to pack properly in order to enjoy your excursion! Use these checklists to ensure you have everything you need!
Tip

Summer Entertaining Essentials

Summer is the best season for entertaining because you have the option of having an outdoor or indoor soiree! You should always be prepared for any unexpected guests who may want to stop by for a dip at the pool. Mark Addison shares some great tips on being prepared for Summer time entertaining.
Playlist

Fiesta Party Playlist

A party is only as good as the weakest song on its playlist, or so the saying goes. Make sure your fiesta makes the cut with these sultry Latin hits.
Playlist

Luau Party Playlist

Drift away with this perfect, Luau playlist! You and your guests can party all night long with these tropical tunes!
Tip

The Best Tips to Host the Best Summer Party on Your Block

Once the coolness of spring melts away it's time for summer parties! If you're tired of the same old barbeques and picnics you can plan a party that your friends and neighbors will remember as the best they've attended in years. Even on the hottest day there is a sense of energy and fun that we've carried over from our carefree childhoods and you can capitalize on that. With the proper planning, a fun theme and some creativity with the menu you'll enjoy the party just as much as your guests.
Tip

Simple Father's Day Ideas

Inspiration

Celebrating Father's Day

Dads like to be pampered too! And while they may not show it, cooking him his favorite meal or baking him some tasty and sweet cupcakes will make his day. Make this Father's Day one to remember.
Activity

Luau Family Fun

For a short and inexpesnive summer getaway, host a luau in your own home! Set the scene for a tropical getaway with the right decor and food, while your guests sip on a tasty pina colada. Aloha!
Real Party

Ice Cream Social Party

Ice cream is the perfect summer treat! This summer host the best party by throwing an old fashioned ice cream social! Grab your best friends, favorite ice creams and plenty of toppings and your set for a sweet party!
Craft

3-D Luggage Tags

This cute and easy foam craft for kids is super-useful, too. Get them into the habit of labeling their bags when they travel and it will save them countless headaches in the future!
Craft

Button Napkin Rings

Button, button, who's got the button? Recreate Holly Quinn's button napkin ring for your next party!
Craft

Make a Cool Summer Koozie

This fun craft is perfect for the kids to make, and the adults to enjoy! Use our instructions to make some adorable, personalized koozies that you can keep for yourself or share with your guests!
Decoration

Unexpected Flower Decor: Just Look Around You!

Summer crafts and decor allow us to let our imaginations run free-nothing is really off limits and the more unusual, the better! Flowers, so much a part of our summers, are nature's most beautiful decoration and bringing them into our homes seems to light up any room. When you're entertaining you don't have to borrow vases to have arrangements in any room of your house-be creative and use everyday items to display the blooms! Your guests will be delighted with these ideas that bring a whole new concept to indoor flowers.
Decoration

Beach Theme Decor Ideas

Coryanne Ettienne gives great tips for creating a summertime oasis on the beach or by the pool!
Craft

Craft Cool Summer Shades for the Kids

Your kids will be fashion superstars with these DIY shades--a great craft idea for early summer!
Decoration

Decorating for a Summer Family Picnic

Create a watermelon themed picnic for your party guests with these yummy recipes and creative crafts!
Craft

Handmade Paper Hawaiian Lei

Can't make it to Hawaii this year? Don't let that stop you from wearing a gorgeous floral lei!
Decoration

Create A "Natural" Dining Tablescape

Outdoor dining can be classy! Chris from Celebrations at Home shows you how to dress up your outdoor tablescape for inimitable style.
Decoration

DIY Pleated Sunshine Garland

Capture the sun, by crafting these miniature, pleated suns. These decorations will definitely brighten up your summer extravaganza!
Craft

Ice Cream Social Summer Party Favors

Summer parties are always fun and often, casual affairs. If you've got a guest list for your soiree out back that includes adults and kids, consider giving everyone one of these party favors. Everyone loves ice cream so all your guests will appreciate the gesture.
Decoration

Ice Cream Social Decoration Ideas

Turn to an all-time favorite summer treat to inspire the decorations at your next summer party. Contributor Coryanne Ettiene has a few fun and frugal DIY summer decor ideas to spruce up your party space with seasonal decor that's family-friendly.
Inspiration

A Memorial Day Party to Celebrate Our Troops

Memorial Day unofficially marks the start of the summer season for many. The long weekend means barbecues, beach trips and summer parties, and while it's great to have some fun, it's also important to understand the real reason behind the holiday.
Inspiration

Celebrating Eid ul Fitr The End of Ramadan

The Eid-ul-Fitr holiday is an occasion celebrated across the world when the month of Ramadan ends. Here are a few ways to celebrate Eid to get you in the festive spirit of the holiday.
Decoration

White on White Summer Table

A Labor Day party complete with this all-white beach-inspired tablescape will end the summer on an elegant and easy note.
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