25 Summer Party Ideas That Will Keep the Good Times Rolling

Few things capture the spirit of summer like a classic pool party! Don't have a big pool? An inflatable one works just as well. Just add some fun floats, pool toys, and a few pool games to keep the good vibes flowing.

Get the tutorial at Studio DIY!.

Host an ice cream social to give your guests with a taste of nostalgia and a burst of sweetness. Fire up your ice cream maker and craft some homemade favorites—like a luscious Blackberry-Cheesecake Swirl—that'll have everyone coming back for seconds.

Get Ree's Blackberry–Cheesecake Swirl Ice Cream recipe.

If you've got graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate, you're all set for a cozy s'mores treat—no campfire needed! Thanks to handy "s'mores makers" you can whip them up right at home. For an extra special twist, give Ree's rich and gooey Chocolate-Covered S'mores recipe a try.

SHOP S'MORES MAKERS

Imagine a sunny afternoon filled with vibrant blooms, delicate finger foods, and refreshing drinks. That's what you'll get with a charming garden party! Set the scene with string lights and picturesque décor for an unforgettable summer gathering.

Get the tutorial at The House That Lars Built.

Time to gather 'round the grill! It's summer, after all, so celebrate with hot dogs, steak, corn on the cob, and some out-of-the-box grilling fare, too—like these bison burgers. Need ideas? Take some tips from the Drummonds, who throw a huge 4th of July cookout every year!

Get the Perfect Bison Burgers recipe.

Serve up a wide variety of popsicles—including these Arnold Palmer-inspired beauties—and let your guests have their pick.

Get the Arnold Palmer Popsicles recipe.

Embrace a picnic theme for your next backyard BBQ. You can serve picnic foods like hamburgers and hot dogs, then decorate with red gingham everything! And don't forget the fun picnic games!

Get the tutorial at Play Party Plan.

Gather friends and family for a day filled with classic lawn games like cornhole, croquet, tug-of-war, spikeball, and whatever else you can think of. You can play casually or introduce a little friendly competition. Just have yummy snacks, beverages, and a fun playlist to finish it off.

SHOP OUTDOOR GAMES

There's never a bad time of year to celebrate dessert. Ask your guests to bring over their favorite sweet treat just for fun (brownies, cupcakes, lemon bars...the options are endless!) and partake in an indulgent evening together.

Get Ree's Lemon Bars recipe.

There's nothing better than biting into a piece of juicy watermelon on a hot summer's day. Invite friends over to hang out and enjoy a piece of their favorite fruit on a nice evening. You can even use them in a variety of recipes—everything from watermelon salad to watermelon drinks!

Get the Grilled Watermelon recipe.

Get ready to celebrate what's in season! Whether you're partial to blackberries, cherries, peaches, or passion fruit, try throwing together a menu containing dishes that highlight that particular item—with colorful decorations to match!

Get the tutorial at Studio DIY!.

This 4th of July, take a cue from Ree and bake a flag cake for added pizzazz. Then, invite neighbors and friends to enjoy a slice while watching fireworks. And you can't forget all the patriotic party decorations!

Get Ree's 4th of July Cake recipe.

Not only are fire pits cozy and useful (just think of all the s'mores that await you!), but they also double as gorgeous "centerpieces" for your patio or backyard. There are tons of options on the market right now, ranging in size, shape, and style that will make your yard the go-to spot during the summer (and fall) months.

SHOP FIRE PITS

A traditional potluck is fun enough all on its own. But add a "no-bake" twist, and you've got yourself a truly perfect summer celebration. It's easy and tasty! P.S. You probably already have many of the ingredients for these chocolate peanut bars in your pantry.

Get Ree's No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars recipe.

No pizza oven? No problem. You can use your grill to whip up charred pies with fresh, veggie-centric flavors (like the ones in this fig arugula pizza!). We promise it's not hard to make your own dough!

Get Ree's Fig and Arugula Pizza recipe.

Embrace the carefree, bohemian vibe with cozy seating areas adorned with colorful pillows and fairy lights. You can serve a menu of fresh food and vibrant cocktails that invite everyone to unwind and enjoy the evening.

Get the tutorial at The House That Lars Built.

Sangria is beautiful, sweet, and delicious...but most importantly, it's easy to whip up in large batches. Plus, as Ree says, “All you need is a pitcher of sangria to make it a party." When you're right, you're right.

Get the Red Sangria recipe.

Invite both guests and their pets to enjoy a backyard bash! If they're anything like Ree's dogs, they'll enjoy splashing in the pool or simply running around the yard. These months are referred to as the dog days of summer, after all!

SHOP DOG POOLS