Summertime through fall is a great time of year to celebrate any occasion outside! The weather is wonderful, and almost everyone is in the mood for outdoor fun. This is especially true of children’s parties. Take them outside to burn up energy and show them a great time.
Themes
Themed parties are always a hit, and with a little ingenuity (and the right combination of food and activities) fairly easy to throw. Warm-weather lends itself well to safari, jungle, ocean, and pirate themes. Plates and cups in simple blues and greens are easy to find and relatively inexpensive. Sporting themes are also perfect for summer, and allow for outdoor play as well. Little ladies may prefer princess or fairy themes, or garden tea parties with pastel plates and frilly napkins.
Activities
Once a theme is chosen, activities may be planned around said theme. Classic outdoor games such as freeze-tag and hide-and-seek are easily modified to fit nearly any party theme. The "it" in tag might be a jungle lion catching "prey" or the pirate king might search for hidden "treasures" in hide-and-seek. Piñatas are another option, and are available in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and motifs.
Inflatable bouncers are another very popular activity choice. Match it to your party’s theme, from castle bouncers to desert islands, there is sure to be one that’s perfect for you. Inflatable water slides offer yet another option, and are great pairings with seafaring, pirate, or tropical/jungle themes. Other outdoor games may include ring toss or croquet with sports or animal motifs.
Food
Cool foods and drinks that combat the weather, such as popsicles, ice cream, and lemonade are always good choices. Instead of struggling with a large container of ice cream, try serving-sized cartons for easier distribution and less mess. Cupcakes are also popular, and easily decorated to fit any theme. Candies and icing can be used to make cupcakes resemble baseballs or basketballs for a sports outing, and gummy fish make great toppings for pirate or tropical cupcakes. Princesses will adore pink icing and sprinkles. There are a variety of themed snacks on the market such as crackers, cookies, and fruit snacks or leathers, and many of them are available in single-serving packages or bags. More substantial offerings, such as franks and sandwiches are also easily customized. Octopus hotdogs are a cute addition to a pirate or sea-themed party. Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches cut into hearts and stars will go well with a princess or tea-party theme.
Comfort and Safety
Safety is always an issue with children, and being outdoors presents additional concerns. Sunscreen is a must for extended outdoor play, even if the sky appears overcast. Providing non-toxic insect repellents or using mosquito zappers may also be a consideration. Water activities must have adequate parental supervision, and it is always a good idea to have at least one adult with CPR certification.
An outdoor party can be a great way for children to release energy and enjoy the fresh air, and themed parties add an element of interest for adults and kids alike. With a little planning and imagination, a great, safe summer party is as close as your own backyard.
