Your pool, spa or hot tub makes an exciting venue for parties and other gatherings that bring together those who matter most.
*We borrowed this blog from our friends at APSP (Association of Pool & Spa Professionals – http://escapetowater.com/hot-tub-pool-entertaining-ideas/)*
In a recent study commissioned by the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals, four out of five owners say buying a pool a great way to entertain guests. Nearly half say it’s a space for connecting to guests, spending quality time with children, and bringing together kids and their friends. Further, more than three out of 10 people say they make time for connection and conversation with family around the pool.
Here you’ll find some fun, innovative pool entertaining ideas to bring family and friends together at your pool, spa or hot tub.
Hawaiian Luau
Take your guests on an evening getaway to the Aloha State! Guests don their most colorful Hawaiian print shirts and leis made at the party or bought ready-made. Decorate your pool or hot tub setting with bright, tropical colors, bamboo accents and Hawaiian-themed accessories from your APSP member retailer, party supply, or craft store.
Tiki torches nearby and tropical flowers scattered across tables and the pool surface provide the finishing touches for a magical evening. Pineapple chicken or ham would be delicious main dishes, or treat your friends and family to an authentic pig roast. Complement your Hawaiian feast with rice and a variety of fruits and vegetables reminiscent of an island paradise.
Beach Party
Who needs the ocean? Create a beach barbecue party around your pool or hot tub. Kick back in flip-flops and swimsuits. Use the children’s sandbox to build a sand castle. Decorate tables with seashells and fish nets. Cover chairs with beach towels. Use plastic pails and shovels, and even frisbees, to serve hors d’oeuvres and drinks. Float toy sailboats in the pool. Grill hot dogs, hamburgers and corn on the cob and serve classic boardwalk food, like popcorn, snow cones and french fries. Or go all out with a clam bake, oyster roast or lobster feast!
Birthday Party
A swimming pool is a special way to celebrate any child’s birthday. Create whimsical invitations using flip-flop or fish-shaped cutouts, or write the party information on beach balls and mail them to guests in oversize envelopes. Activities can be tailored to the interests of the age group. Younger children will enjoy classic pool games like Sharks and Minnows, Marco Polo, cannonball contests and games with pool noodles. Organize a water-gun battle or provide amenities for a girls’ spa-themed party. Plan a light menu with sliced fruit, half-sandwiches, goldfish crackers, and boxed juice drinks for kids.
Movie Night
Have a “float-in” movie instead! Purchase some inflatable lounge chairs at your APSP member retailer. Move your big-screen television outside, or rent one for the evening. Pick a favorite classic, or give your guests a thrill and screen “Jaws.” Movies like “Finding Nemo” are great choices for a kids party. Set up your own movie theater concession stand and serve popcorn, candy and sodas. For a more intimate setting, snuggle up next to your partner and watch a romantic comedy inside your hot tub.