3 Fun Summer Dinner Parties with a Theme

Ahh, it is summer, birds are chirping, the sun is shining, and the flowers are blooming. What a perfect time for a summer dinner party! Now let’s face it, adding a theme makes a party even more fun. Anytime you can use your imagination and spend time with like-minded people, nothing but good can come of it.

So, we’ve come up with three great ideas for fun summer dinner parties to help round out the season in style!

The Backyard Luau

A nice warm summer night is a wonderful backdrop to this fabulous themed party. Here are some tips:

• Specify on the invites that the attire is tropical. Suggest Hawaiian print shirts and grass skirts.
• Use silk tropical flowers as decoration.
• And what would a backyard luau be without a lei? These garlands or wreaths are frequently used in Hawaiian culture, usually presented on arrival and symbolize affection.

Many of the decorations can be found at party supply stores or can be made at home. Keep the party simple but magical! Here are a few ideas to set the stage:

• Play a CD with environmental sounds of the surf in the background or tropical music reminiscent of Hawaii.
• Decorate with seashells, coral, linen napkins and natural fabric placemats.
• Create a beautiful centerpiece of tropical fruits in a basket.

• Serve fun, tropical-inspired drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic). Don’t forget a mini paper umbrella!
• Have fun activities planned, such as a conga line or limbo contest.

 

 

Need some food ideas? Why not try this excellent recipe for a Macadamia Yellowtail with Mango-Papaya Salsa? Get some inspiration from this great site on all things Hawaiian food!

The “Mad Men” Al Fresco Party

Yes, this a cocktail dinner party held in the backyard — which is very 1960s. With so many fans of this retro-themed television show, a party in this theme would be a hit and different from the typical summer parties.

Here are some tips to set the stage:

• Specify on the invite that the attire is Mad Men 1960s or to dress as their favorite character from the hit TV show.
• Spin records with the sounds of Frank Sinatra, Mel Tormé, and Tony Bennett in the background.
• The decor should include hanging lights. Make sure there is an open bar, with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, since those on the show always had a drink in their hand. Ginger ale is a nice prop and also tastes good.
• Incorporate 1960’s party food. Think deviled eggs, Chex party mix, a cheese platter, and other hors d’oeuvre.
• Have couples dancing, and switch partners for mini-drama and fun.
• Make sure that outdoor tables are covered in tablecloths since it is reminiscent of the 1960s. You can even have Mad Men themed coasters with characters from the show! Don’t forget the red roses in a vase by the door, for conversation.

Fiesta Party

 

Who doesn’t love a colorful fiesta during the summer? From the vibrant decorations to the tasty eats, who can resist these Mexican-theme summer parties? These are also great types of parties to throw that cater to different audiences who may have different dietary requirements, such as gluten-free or vegan.

Here are some ideas to get started:

• Pinatas are lots of fun, easy to make (ask your kids to help), and are great decor on tables and hanging. You can make assorted sizes, including small versions to use as part of the centerpiece. The best part, of course, is swinging that bat to open them up! Here’s an easy method for making pinatas.
• For your centerpiece, why not use a Mexican sombrero or woven basket? With the basket, you can place colorful bell peppers or jalapenos inside of it. Also have fun with the serving bowls and utensils, use lots of color!
• Set up a make-your-own taco bar, which provides flexibility to the guests and is easy since most of the food can be made ahead. Also be sure to offer a variety of hot sauce flavors and meat options (chicken, beef, meat alternatives) to accommodate different tastes. You can also offer an alternative to traditional taco shells, such as romaine lettuce, and even flavored chips for sides, such as ranch, nacho, and jalapeno.

You must have margaritas! Here is a recipe for the perfect original margarita.

Having a themed summer dinner party is a lot of fun, but what makes the party a success are the people who are on board with the wonderful adventure you’ve created for them.