Tips for hosting a pool party all spring and summer. This guide to the best pool party covers planning, decor, and pool party recipes. and lots of dachshunds...
recipe originally published June 19, 2012
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Throw the best pool party
Spring and summer means pool parties.
When we had a pool, we basically lived in our back yard for several months. Jason loved the science of achieving perfect pH levels, a sparkly clean pool, and grilling. I loved blending margaritas, inviting people over, and keeping air in our dachshund's floaty cactus.
People love the house with a pool. Especially on really hot days... it's surprising how fast they are able to show up to an impromptu invite, almost as if they were already on their way to your house
From years of my pool party past, I bring you the guide to the ultimate pool party, sometimes from a dachshund perspective.
Pool party prep: do things ahead of time
My advice for hosting any party always has the same core items. I have added pool party specific items to the planning tips.
- Create a timeline - stress free planning begins with an outline of when to do what in the days ahead.
- Prepare ahead - do as much as you can ahead of time, from food and drinks to towels and decor. Our recipe list includes easy recipes and foods that can be made ahead of time.
- Keep glass away from pool - melamine dishes and unbreakable glasses are a great investment if you plan to have pool parties all summer long.
Decorations that are useful and fun
The best party props double as fun and useful, like tropical piñatas, beach balls, pool toys, and a palm tree cooler!
Have extra large beach towels ready for your guests. Stack them near doors, so people can dry off before entering the house. Have more towels near the pool to grab while leaving the pool.
Floaties are a must for pool parties. Fun pool floats come in all shapes, like avocados, unicorns and flamingoes, and even dachshunds! Basil had a cactus that he loved to float on...
Activity areas
Your guests will want a place to sit or lay in the sun once they get out of the pool. Arrange chairs and lounges near the pool.
Food and drinks can be placed in the shade or even indoors if that is workable. If you are also grilling, have the BBQ near the food area. Use containers for ice and beverages. These acrylic beverage tubs work best and do not leak.
Plan games and have pool accessories / toys available.
Basil was surprisingly good at the ring toss portion of the basketball hoop:
The ultimate in pool party food and drink
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Pool Party Recipes
These pool party recipes are make ahead or quick to make, so you can enjoy the party, relax, and have fun in the sun!
This quick recipe brings you summer in a bowl - perfect for a side dish or light dinner, just add crusty bread.
A pineapple spiked version of my family's traditional potluck recipe. This gluten free pasta salad is a hit at the pool party.
Brimming with freshness and bright, herby flavors, this is a great salad for any event.
These peanut butter jelly bars are a tasty breakfast, snack or dessert.
This potluck dish is a fresh, flavorful mix of veggies and curly pasta in a bright avocado dressing.
A veggie forward version of everyone's favorite Asian cucumber salad. Edamame makes this a protein rich salad.
This salad brings bold flavors from bright and briny ingredients. Make this dish in literally minutes!
A unique flavor twist on everyone's favorite party popper, these include sweet pineapple and buttery cracker crumb in every spicy bite!
Naturally sweet with a spicy heat, this spicy guacamole is your new summertime staple! A quick and easy crowd pleaser!
This peach crostini, with a flavorful balsamic drizzle or fresh basil, is a brightly colored and vibrantly flavored summer treat.
The classic cheese spread goes dairy free and gets a spicy update!
Golden crispy tofu is a party ready appetizer or snack, and is also a tasty salad topper or wrap filling.
This deliciously rich, smooth dip is so versatile - enjoy as a tasty snack, party appetizer, sandwich spread or salad dressing!
This fresh, colorful appetizer has the bright flavors of summer in one bite. The party favorite all year long.
Roasted artichoke lemon hummus brings rich flavors to a classic hummus recipe. This easy recipe is a great snack or dressed up appetizer and has a simple whole food ingredient list.
A quick and easy appetizer with bold, briny flavor. Tapenade is perfect for that last minute snack.
Everyone’s favorite summer cocktail brings a spicy kick! This naturally sweetened, fresh juice margarita will be your summertime staple.
about Kristina:
Kristina is spabettie! She found cooking at an early age, and created spabettie in 2010 to share vegan recipes. Kristina turned her culinary training into sharing vibrant vegan food! Read more...
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Corrin says
oh my gosh. adorable. my mom's dachshund would have a pool party every day if you let him. my dachshund barely tolerates baths.