Poolside Dr. Seuss-Themed Baby Shower at Private Residence with White Cloud Balloon Installation Hovering Over Pool and Colorful Balloon Backdrop | PartySlate
phototographer: Shawn Connell Weddings | planner: In Any Event | balloons: Balloon Design Studio | venue: private residence
The Best of | Celebrations

12 Essential Pool Party Ideas for Your Summer Soirée

Poolside Dr. Seuss-Themed Baby Shower at Private Residence with White Cloud Balloon Installation Hovering Over Pool and Colorful Balloon Backdrop | PartySlate

Summer is finally on the horizon, and we can’t stop thinking about our favorite pool party ideas. After a long, cold winter (especially here, in our homebase of Chicago), we are ready to celebrate life’s milestones…poolside, of course. 

So how do you host a good pool party? Think beyond the chips, dip, and streamers with epic pool party ideas for adults and kids. We’re talking mouth-watering catering options (hello, clambake), immersive activities, and décor that doubles as the perfect photo op.

Think beyond the chips, dip, and streamers with epic pool party ideas.”

With blazing heat and sidewalks that could fry an egg, no outdoor bash is complete without the option for a cooling dip in the water. We’ve gathered some of our favorite pool party ideas (and the best party vendors) to make sure your guests will be talking about your celebration — even after the season has ended. Ready to dive in?

1. Pool Party Theme Ideas

With a glistening pool as your party’s focal point, the theme of the surrounding festivities should delight and excite. Your theme can range anywhere from a color palette to a region or even a decade.

Pool Party Ideas: Fresh Prince of Bel Air Themed Pool Party Backdrop With Balloons | PartySlate
photographer: Imagery By Jules Photography

Fresh Prince of Bel-Air

Miami, FL

Now this is the story all about how a pool party planned by KeAira Chantell Events has us nostalgic for the 90s. Bright colors and graffiti patterns turned every corner of the celebration into the perfect photo op. Click to see the summer barbecue by Sensory Delights Catering and on-theme cake (with Fresh Prince quotes) by Deja vu Sweets. While you’re enjoying the fresh summer vibes, make sure to check out the inflatable water slide that created quite the splash.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Imagery By Jules Photography  | planner: KeAira Chantell Events | floral: The Simon Design | cake: Deja vu Sweets | cake topper & charms: Ten23 Designs | custom décor: Elf’s Prop Shop | balloon art: Maggie Creative Design | caterer: Sensory Delights Catering | branding & stationary: Papered Wonders

Tropical-Themed Pool Party Souvenir & Swag Station | PartySlate
photographer: Alison Ross Events

Hawaiian Barbecue

Bannockburn, IL

We love how Alison Ross Events transformed this Midwest backyard soirée into a tropical oasis filled with artificial palm trees, tiki bars, vibrant hues, and summer-perfect palm-printed runners from BBJ Linen. Guests were transported to paradise with a lei entrance, Hawaiian barbecue, and an authentic Poi fire show to round out the theming with top-notch entertainment.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer & planner: Alison Ross Events| décor: Epic Events| venue: private residence | tent: Partytime-HDO Productions, Inc.| linen: BBJ Linen

photographer: Maggie Marguerite Studio

ROYGBIV Bash

Chappaqua, NY

To make a splash — of color that is — you can’t go wrong with a rainbow palette. Tara M. Events made the trending rainbow theme come to life at this poolside Bat Mitzvah party with technicolor drink displays, strung lanterns, and playful tablescapes. Moreover, On The Move Entertainment brought down the house with fresh tunes under a sea of balloons (in proper ROYGBIV order) and colorful lighting.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Maggie Marguerite Studio | planner & décor: Tara M. Events | floral: Enza Events | venue: Whippoorwill Club | entertainment agency: On The Move | performers: Double G Productions | face painting: Making Faces Party | balloons: Katie’s Balloons | cake: Sweet Grace Cake Designs


RELATED: 14 Small Backyard Weddings That Prove Home is Where the Heart Is


2. Cabana Pool Party Ideas

For guests who aren’t so keen on swimming, adding a chic and shaded lounge area is a must. Cabanas ensure everyone stays cool by the pool with stylish — and most importantly, comfortable — seating options.

Elegant White Cabanas With Black Bows, Chandeliers, and Gold Cocktail Tables for a Backyard Pool Party | PartySlate
photographer: Sanaz Photography

Gold & Glam

Los Angeles, CA

We could lounge all day beneath the billowing canopy at this glam wedding shower from Sonia Sharma EventsRevelry Event Designers decked out the cabana with chandeliers, a chic black-and-white color scheme, and luxe gold accents.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Sanaz Photography | event design & coordination: Sonia Sharma Events | floral: Celio’s Design | design & décor: Revelry Event Designers | venue: private residence | lighting: Images By Lighting

Pool Party Cabana With Greenery | PartySlate
photographer: Justin Coit

Luxe Luncheon

Los Angeles, CA

Taking to a more ethereal vibe, this delectable farm-to-table garden party catered by Haute Chefs LA added a greenery-draped cabana for a former Glee star. If it’s good enough for Lea Michele, it’s good enough for us.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Justin Coit | venue: private residence | caterer: Haute Chefs LA


RELATED: Find Top Party Planners on PartySlate


3. Pool Party Decoration Ideas

While a body of water adds its own serene beauty to a celebration, nothing amplifies a pool party like chic pool décor.

Blue Sky Tableau

Poolside Dr. Seuss-Themed Baby Shower at Private Residence with White Cloud Balloon Installation Hovering Over Pool and Colorful Balloon Backdrop | PartySlate
photographer: Shawn Connell Weddings

Quogue, NY

There is so much to love about this Dr. Seuss-themed baby shower. However, we are particularly obsessed with how this lavish balloon installation by Balloon Design Studio evokes fluffy white clouds floating through a pure blue sky (aka swimming pool).

Discover other wow-worthy details such as on-theme signage by Ceci New York and whimsical lounge area by Taylor Creative Inc. Of oh the places you can go, we highly recommend a pool party.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Shawn Connell Weddings | planner: In Any Event | décor: David Beahm Experiences | printed materials: Ceci New York | caterer: Creative Edge Parties | balloons: Balloon Design Studio | lounge: Taylor Creative Inc. 

Pool With Floating
photographer: Show Ready Photo

Spell it Out

Menlo Park, CA

This graduation luncheon, captured by Show Ready Photo, shows how a swimming pool is the perfect blank canvas for your pool party decorations. We especially love how the spelled out letters let guests know which hashtag to use when posting pictures of their own.

Blueprint Studios made sure there were plenty of perfect photo ops with chic rentals. Click to see bright tablescapes (with clever book centerpieces) and funky glassware for all of the specialty mocktails. 

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Show Ready Photo | planning & design: All Set Events | floral: Blooming Vase Florals | venue: private residence | caterer: Daniel Ripley Catering | rentals: Blueprint Studios & Hensley Event Resources | artist: Cartoon Guru | signage: Palette & Ink | bar service: Rye on the Road | ice cream: Garden Street Creamery

Pool With Hot Pink Floating Florals | PartySlate
photographer: Sheri Whitko Photography

Petaled Pool

Montecito, CA

Floating florals offer a timeless and undeniably beautiful design element. We love how the expert planners at Paulette Wolf Events curated this feminine milestone birthday party, especially with cocktails around a pool accented with perfect petals from Marks Garden.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Sheri Whitko Photography | planner: Paulette Wolf Events | floral: Marks Garden | venue: private residence | décor: Revelry Event Designers | entertainment: West Coast Music | invitation: Marc Friedland Couture | technical producer: KISHBAUGH + PARTNERS | rentals: Bright Event Rentals | tenting: Top Productions | linen: Tailored Elements | cake: Cake Divas

Poolside Décor With Glass Orbs Filled With White Flowers | PartySlate
photo courtesy of: Christina Currie Events, Inc.

Elegant Orbs

Barrington, IL

Say “I do” at home with a stunning backyard wedding reception. The skilled planning team at Christina Currie Events, Inc. chose to feature translucent spheres filled with crisp white roses, floating in — and positioned around — the pool, offering an elegant accent.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photo courtesy of & planner: Christina Currie Events, Inc. | floral: Meetinghouse | venue: private residence | linen: BBJ Linen| entertainment: Lola Bard Productions | caterer: Calihan Catering| rentals: Tablescapes Event Rentals

Backyard Pool Party With Unicorn and Swan Floaties | PartySlate
photographer: Sanaz Photography

Fun Floats

Los Angeles, CA

When thinking of luxe pool décor, we can’t help but revisit this wedding showerSonia Sharma Events included the most glamorous of pool floats — including floating swans and winged horses — that perfectly tied back to the celebration’s chic black, white and gold palette.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Sanaz Photography | event design & coordination: Sonia Sharma Events | floral: Celio’s Design | design & décor: Revelry Event Designers | venue: private residence | lighting: Images By Lighting

Pool With White Balloon and Garlanded String Installation | PartySlate
photographer: Christy & Co. Photography

Inspired Installation

Miami, FL

We can’t forget the perfectly-round, oversized white balloons from Gilded Group Décor at this first communion celebration. We love how the team adorned the ribbons with lush strands of greenery, creating a hovering installation just above the water — all planned by One Inspired Party.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Christy & Co. Photography | planner: One Inspired Party | floral & specialty rentals: Gilded Group Décor | venue: private residence | caterer: Thierry Isambert Culinary and Event Design | cake: Earth and Sugar | sweets: Chocolati Bar | cake stands: Nicks & May


RELATED: 5 Backyard Birthday Party Ideas for an Intimate Party at Home


4. Pool Party Food Ideas

What kind of food do you serve at a pool party? Swimming is bound to make your guests hungry. Make sure to serve something creative and tasty for a post-swim indulgence. 

Savory Ice Cream Cones On Lucite Shelving Against Swimming Pool Backdrop | PartySlate
photographer: Eric Schliffer

Edible Elegance

East Hampton, NY

Elegant Affairs Caterers enhanced two different swanky poolside soirées in the Hamptons with delectable fare. This lovely poolside dinner featured innovative plating methods; including edible spoons, personal crudite trays, and towers of stacked caprese.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Eric Schliffer | venue: private residence | caterer: Elegant Affairs Caterers | tent & lighting: Sperry Tents | rentals: Party Rental Ltd.

Catering Clambake Tray | PartySlate
photographer: direct image films photo & cinema

Clambake Celebration

East Hampton, NY

We’re loving Elegant Affairs Caterers’ menu for this chic clambake. Guests enjoyed fresh seafood and sweeping coastal views at a backyard celebration planned by the team at Elegant Affairs.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: direct image films photo & cinema | planner & caterer: Elegant Affairs Caterers | floral: Honey Suckle and Roses | venue: private residence | rentals: Party Rental Ltd. | furniture rentals: Decco By Party Up Productions

Half of Coconut With Bright Orange Flower and Spoon on White Plate | PartySlate
photographer: Carter Rose for Wolfgang Puck Catering

Fresh Fête

Dallas, TX

We appreciate the health-conscious and delectable menu that Wolfgang Puck Catering Dallas created for this summer cocktail party. Light bites including chia seed pudding plated in coconut shells and clever menus fashioned from fresh palm leaves.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Carter Rose for Wolfgang Puck Catering | venue: AT&T Performing Arts Center | caterer: Wolfgang Puck Catering – Dallas | custom napkins: BBJ Linen


RELATED: Discover Top Caterers on PartySlate


5. Pool Party Table Decorations

When it comes to poolside party décor, accessorizing your tabletop is a must. Beckon guests to the table with these top pool party ideas.

Wooden Table With Orange Wild Flowers and Pale Green Dishware | PartySlate
photographer: Rebecca Yale Photography

Wildflower Whimsy

San Francisco, CA

Pop of bright orange wildflowers created a bright and cheerful contrast against the tranquil swimming pool backdrop. We love how this intimate poolside cocktail party, planned by Madix & Co., incorporated some of our favorite pool party ideas.

Click to see the vineyard-chic lounge area (with gorgeous vineyard views) and signature cocktails (with orange wildflowers, of course). You’ll be ready for summer in no time. 

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Rebecca Yale Photography | planner: Madix & Co. | design & planning: Amanda Vidmar Design | venue: Distinct Locations | cinematography: Weddings on Film | rentals: The Copper Rose Collection & borrowed BLU | cake: Jasmine Rae Cakes | paper: Model Paper

Poolside Low Tablescapes With Pink Flowers and Pillow Seating | PartySlate
photographer: Camille Catherine Photography

Boho Chic

Leesburg, VA

We are swooning over this poolside girls night gathering in Virginia. The team at Paisley & Jade provided low-set wood tables, which A Charming Affair outfitted with plush pink cushions that perfectly complemented the feminine floral centerpieces.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Camille Catherine Photography | planner & stylist: A Charming Affair | venue: private residence | rentals: Paisley & Jade & Party Rental Ltd. | caterer: Well Dunn Catering | linen: La Tavola Fine Linen

Rustic Pooslide Tablescapes With Ghost Chair Seating | PartySlate
photographer: Sargeant Creative

Rustic Reception

Palm Springs, CA

If feminine-chic isn’t your style, opt for a more traditional design like the gorgeous tablescapes at this stunning poolside wedding. Planners at The Lynden Lane Company worked with Keith J. Laverty’s design team to curate a rustic vibe with distressed wood. For a touch of modern elegance, Ghost Chairs and lush floral bouquets were added to the affair.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Sargeant Creative | planner: LVL Weddings & Events | floral: Keith J Laverty | design & décor: The Lynden Lane Company | venue: Alcazar Palm Springs | rentals: Classic Event & Tent Rentals, Signature Party Rentals, Found Rentals, & Dish Wish Events | linen: La Tavola Fine Linen | videographer: The Emotion Picture Studio | lighting: Amber Event Production | calligraphy: Kakalligraphy | entertainment: Dart Collective

Rain-Themed Baby Shower Tablescape in Blue Color Palette With White Flowers and Greenery | PartySlate
photographer: Laurie Bailey Photography

Shower Soirée

Calabasas, CA

We love when tablescapes accentuate a celebration’s theme, like at this adorable tea party-inspired baby shower planned by Marketa Harlan. Baby blue floral linen and table elements enhanced the “It’s A Boy” aesthetic.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Laurie Bailey Photography | planner & florals: Marketa Harlan | linen: La Tavola Fine Linen | rentals: Dish Wish & Town & Country Rentals | flower crowns: Wisteria Lane


RELATED: 19 Small Birthday Party Ideas You Won’t Find Anywhere Else


Pool Party Cocktails and Summer Drinks

Every poolside party needs a refreshing, signature drink. From botanical-infused ice cubes to crafty glassware, the sky’s the limit when it comes to creative summer cocktails.

Blue and Yellow Summer Cocktails With Orange Roses in Blue Vases | PartySlate
photographer: Andie Freeman Photography

Colorful Cocktails

Atlanta, GA

We’ve seen all types of fun and festive boozy beverages. These electric-blue hued drinks from Simply Catering grabbed our attention right away. Andie Freeman Photography perfectly captured how the sips matched the pool’s hues at this tropical wedding reception from My Dreamz Events.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Andie Freeman Photography | event designer: My Dreamz Eventz | floral design: Ambience Decor | venue: Foxhall Resort and Sporting Club | paper goods: Jasmin Michelle Designs | caterer: Simply Catering | cake: Eileen Carter Creations

Pink Summer Pool Party Cocktails With Rhubarb Garnish | PartySlate
photo courtesy of: Wolfgang Puck Catering – Los Angeles

Pink Drinks

Los Angeles, CA

When it comes to cocktails that wow, it’s not just about the concoction, but also the garnishing. It doesn’t get more summery than these seasonal rhubarb accents crafted by Wolfgang Puck Catering — Los Angeles at a rooftop conference.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photo courtesy of & caterer: Wolfgang Puck Catering – Los Angeles| venue: Loews Hollywood Hotel

Friends Enjoy Poolside Popsicles in Martini Glasses | PartySlate
photographer: Phillip Van Nostrand Photography, Eric Kelley Photography, Carla Ten Eyck Photography, & Love Life Images

Pourable Popsicles

San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur

Engage! Summits’ multi-day conference in Los Cabos took pool party refreshments a step further, treating guests to a poolside dance performance, courtesy of Élan Artists, while enjoying a refreshing and boozy popsicle.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Phillip Van Nostrand Photography, Eric Kelley Photography, Carla Ten Eyck Photography, & Love Life Images | planner: ELENA DAMY | venue: Solaz, a Luxury Collection Resort, Los Cabos | art direction & event branding: TPD Design House | music & entertainment: Élan Artists | audio: Encore Event Technologies | organization: Engage! Summits


RELATED: Search Design & Décor Teams on PartySlate


7. Pool Party Props for Photo Ops

No party is complete without Insta-worthy photo ops. We love when summer celebrations offer designated photo backdrops, such as living floral walls or areas with custom signage and great lighting. Regardless of whether your poolside setting has a naturally breathtaking view or an implemented backdrop, summer party goers will love creative and fun photo ops.

Girl in Bikini and Pink Feather Headdress Sits at Edge of Pool With Boxwood Backdrop and Row of Plastic Pink Flamingos | PartySlate
photographer: Ashley LaPrade Photography

Pink Flamingle

Palm Springs, CA

We love how this tropical bridal party used both flamingo floats and lawn ornaments to create the perfect summertime picture. Ashley LaPrade Photography captured it beautifully for the bride-to-be and her squad.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Ashley LaPrade Photography | venue: private residence 

Young Woman Poses on Backyard Swing | PartySlate
photographer: Christopher Costello

Picture-Perfect Perch

Los Angeles, CA

For a dressed-up poolside party, opt for a dry element, such as the charming garden swings that Victoria’s Secret added to their celebratory sportswear collection launch in Los Angeles, produced by Jessica Fels Event Production & Design.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Christopher Costello | planner: Jessica Fels Event Production & Design | venue: private residence | lighting: Images By Lighting | a/v: Rhythm and Sound | drapery: Amber Event Production | rentals: Cosmos Neon Inc | caterer: Lucques Catering

Wedding Party Poses After Jumping in Pool at End of Celebration | PartySlate
photographer: LuvRox Photography

Plunge Pics

Nassau, New Providence 

When you throw a really good party, sometimes the pool itself is the prop. The partygoers at this glamorous Bahamas wedding hopped into the pool, fully-clothed, for end-of-night fun. LuvRox Photography followed suit, diving in pursuit of the perfect pics. Planners at absolute Wedding and Event Planning considered this evening a splashing success.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: LuvRox Photography | planners: Sara Renee Events, Carrie Zack Events, & absolute. Wedding & Event Planning | décor: The Wildflowers | venue: Four Seasons Ocean Club | entertainment: Tropics Entertainment | videographer: Fangipani


RELATED: Search Top DJs & Bands on PartySlate


8. Interactive Pool Party Activities

So what do you do at a pool party besides swim? Allow guests to dive deeper into your party with interactive stations and festive activities. You won’t regret it.

Massage Station at Poolside Victoria's Secret Party | PartySlate
photographer: Christopher Costello

Massage Heaven

Los Angeles, CA

We love the idea of offering your attendees some R&R, and Victoria’s Secret’s consumer event did just that. Jessica Fels Event Production & Design incorporated poolside massage tables in curtained cabanas, adorned by chic “Hello Beautiful” signage, of course.

The soirée went a step further with a pop-up boutique for monogramming denim jackets, and even offered an instructional yoga session — needless to say, we wish we were invited.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Christopher Costello | planner: Jessica Fels Event Production & Design | venue: private residence | lighting: Images By Lighting | a/v: Rhythm and Sound | drapery: Amber Event Production | rentals: Cosmos Neon Inc | caterer: Lucques Catering

Flower Crown Making Station at Baby Shower Party | PartySlate
photographer: Laurie Bailey Photography

Crown Celebration

Calabasas, CA

More low-key activities can range anywhere from a perfume mixing station to a custom floral crown activity like this one from Wisteria Lane. Guests got to be crafty, weaving their own floral crowns at this posh poolside baby shower.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Laurie Bailey Photography | planner & florals: Marketa Harlan | linen: La Tavola Fine Linen | rentals: Dish Wish & Town & Country Rentals | flower crowns: Wisteria Lane


RELATED: 13 Summer Wedding Color Palettes We Can’t Stop Thinking About


9. Pool Party Favor Ideas

Don’t underestimate your guests’ love for swag. A striking design adds punch to your party favors while enhancing surrounding décor. Free two birds with one key by gifting guests on-theme pool essentials such as towels and cute totes.

Pool Party Swag Station With Beach Ball Décor | PartySlate
photographer: Mateo & Company

Swag Station

New Orleans, LA

What’s even better than a thoughtful party favor? How about a swag station that doubles as the perfect photo op? This vibrant pool party, planned by Amanda Price Events, showed some guest appreciation with this pool-themed swag station.

We especially love how beach chairs replaced traditional signage (while thanking talented event partners such as Herbivore Floral Designs, BBJ Linen, and Firefly Ambiance). Of course, we couldn’t share this event without mentioning the cabana tents with unique floral pom poms. You’ll want to see it for yourself

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Mateo & Company | planner: Amanda Price Events | floral: Herbivore Floral Designs | venue: Maison Dupuy | linen: BBJ Linen | balloons: Crescent City Balloons | rentals: Firefly Ambiance | entertainment: Trixie Minx Productions & DJ Brian B | dj equipment & pa system: Blue Earth Productions | caterer: Central City BBQ, Messina’s At The Terminal, La Cocinita, Nole Restaurant, & Pigeon | fashion show: Carl Mack Entertainment | cocktails: Cocktail + Creative | trees: Johnson Tropicals | vodka: Porchjam / Bolden Vodka | stationery & signage: The Dogwood House | cotton candy: Poof Cotton Candy | fans: Southern Hospitality Event Rentals | draping: Quest Events | wine & champagne: Republic National Dist. | gift bags: The Basketry | rosé & beer: Southern Eagle | tap truck: Tap Truck Nola | outdoor rentals: Yur Event Rentals | ice cream: The Wandering Goat | videographer: Vidmento

Pink and White Flamingo Towel Party Swag in Yellow Shelving | PartySlate
photographer: Infinite Creations

Custom Comfort

Miami Beach, FL

There was nothing childish about this “Let’s Flamingle!” kids birthday party from Design Plan Play. The celebration included towels adorned with flamingos — of course — as well as complimentary sunscreen and bug spray for party goers.

These small touches were surely appreciated by guests as they marveled at live flamingos and the towering pink balloon installation spelling out the birthday girl’s name — among other on-theme décor from Bambini Soireé.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Infinite Creations | planner & event designer: Design Plan Play | venue: private residence | rentals: Fiestas Depot & Bambini Soiree | entertainment: Lovely Locks Parties & Todo Kids | caterer: Pincho Factory & Poke Bao | baker: Elegant Temptations ET Cakes & O Pops By Angie | flamingos: Historic Walton House


RELATED: Search Real Celebration Albums on PartySlate


10. Pool Party Lighting Ideas

Set the mood for your summer bash with carefully-designed lighting that suits your party’s style and space.

Fyre Fest-Themed Pool Party With Uplit Conical Tenting and White Pool Floating Orbs | PartySlate
photographer: Jessica Alexander Photography

A New Twist on Moonlight

Los Angeles, CA

Who needs a full moon when you can have illuminated conical tenting and glowing pool floaties? This Fyre Fest-themed pool gave the failed festival a second chance to shine with such an inviting pool set up.

Other photo-worthy details from this summer soirée planned by Sterling Social Events & Experiences (with rentals by Taylor Creative Inc.) include igloo-inspired tenting, sumptuous spreads, and relaxing floaties.  

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Jessica Alexander Photography | planner & design: Sterling Social Events & Experiences | décor: By Jason Lloyd | venue: private residence | caterer: Haute Chefs LA | staffing: Quench Staffing | rentals: Taylor Creative Inc.

Birthday Cake With Cold Firework Candles | PartySlate
photographer: Fred Marcus Studio

Sweeten the Glow

East Hampton, NY

Don’t forget about pool party cake ideas. We love how cold fireworks replaced traditional candles at this luxe outdoor pool party. State Of The Art Enterprises created a sweet experience, indeed, with an elegant daytime celebration that transformed into a dynamic party after sunset.

Click to see how the private residence (and backyard tenting) transformed into a tropical paradise with vibrant purple uplighting. 

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Fred Marcus Studio | planner: State Of The Art Enterprises | décor: Dejuan Stroud, Inc. | venue: private residence | caterer: Marcia Selden Catering & Events | lighting music: More than Music | lighting: Fusion Productions

Nighttime Disco-Themed Pool Party With Iridescent Pool Floaties | PartySlate
photo courtesy of: Wife of the Party

Disco-Riffic

California City, CA

Wife of the Party went all out for the Pretty Little Thing x PAPER Magazine Coachella pool party, opting to create a hip atmosphere with a disco ball framed by multi-colored lights that hovered above the water.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: EDLT Photography | planner: Wife of the Party

Nighttime Party at Private Residence With String Lighting and Monogram Pool Décor | PartySlate
photographer: Reece + Katrina Photography

Magical Monogram

Los Angeles, CA

If you’re looking for a subtle evening glow, Amazae Events strung this outdoor wedding with vintage bulbs and rustic glowing lanterns. The design was taken a step further with a custom monogrammed logo illuminating the pool in honor of the newlyweds.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Reece + Katrina Photography | planner: Amazae Events

Colorful Paper Lantern in Tree Overhanging Private Party Pool | PartySlate
photographer: Maggie Marguerite Studio

Lovely Lanterns

Chappaqua, NY 

For brighter punches of color, check out the inspired pool party Bat Mitzvah by Tara M. Events. Artful, colorful paper lanterns were draped in poolside trees, adding vibrant hues to the greenery-surrounded backdrop. When night fell, the celebration continued with rainbow-hued lighting that cast a lovely glow across the pool.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Maggie Marguerite Studio | planner & décor: Tara M. Events | floral: Enza Events | venue: Whippoorwill Club | entertainment agency: On The Move | performers: Double G Productions | face painting: Making Faces Party | balloons: Katie’s Balloons | cake: Sweet Grace Cake Designs


RELATED: 10 Tropical-Theme Party Ideas for a Celebration in Paradise


11. Over-the-Top Pool Party Entertainment

Your pool party will go swimmingly when engaging, on-theme entertainment makes an appearance. Cue the band (and water ballerinas), and get the dance party started.

Dancer Performs in Bubble on Ping Pong-Filled Party Pool With Pink Uplighting | PartySlate
photographer: On The Move

Bubbly Bash

Jersey City, NJ

A pool party offers plenty of opportunities for unique performance options. For example, masked dancers from On the Move performed in a bubble atop a sea of 60,000 floating ping pong balls at this memorable milestone birthday party from Shawn Rabideau Events.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer & entertainment: On The Move| planner: Shawn Rabideau Events

Water Ballerinas Perform in Pool at Wedding Party With Purple Uplit Palm Trees | PartySlate
photographer: Patty Daniels Photography

Sensational Swimmers

Bel Harbour, FL

We also love the spectacle these synchronized swimmers put on at this wedding’s tropical cocktail hour planned by Chris Weinberg Events. From outdoor Mitzvahs to al fresco summer celebrations, pool parties prove you don’t need a ballroom for dancing.

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Patty Daniels Photography | planner: Chris Weinberg Events | : décor & production: Jose Graterol Designs | venue: The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort | videographer: Senderey Video | sound & lighting: PSID Group

Lenny Kravitz Performs at Caesar's Palace in Las Vegas | PartySlate
photographer: Eric Guideng

Concert Celebration

Las Vegas, NV

In Las Vegas, the planners at Gravel Experiential executed a custom deck atop the largest pool at the iconic Caesars Palace — all to accommodate a high-energy private corporate concert. Oh, and did we mention it was for none other than Lenny Kravitz?

The vendors who made this event happen:

photographer: Eric Guideng | planner: Gravel Experiential | venue & caterer: Caesars Palace | furniture rentals: CORT Events | audio: Sound Image | lighting: 4wall Lighting


RELATED: Start Planning Your Next Pool Party With PartySlate


12. Pool Party Locations (and Top Event Venues)

The best pool party ideas start with…you guessed it: a pool. If you don’t own a pool, fear not. You can still host the pool party of your dreams at one of the many chic pool locations available in some of our favorite cities around the country. 

PartySlate is the top resource for finding an event venue near you. Browse our curated directory to find the best spot for your pool party theme ideas. Narrow your search by selecting guest count, event type, and venue type. You can also use the filters to select preferred amenities and catering options. Your ideal poolside venue is just a click away.

Some Top Pool Venues Across the Country:


What Do You Need for an Adult Pool Party

As any great party planner will tell you, the possibilities are endless when it comes to hosting your dream pool party. Let these 12 pool party ideas be a starting point — and don’t forget to collaborate with your team of party vendors for further inspiration. Keep reading to find out more about how to assemble your team of talented event professionals.

Bring These Pool Party Ideas to Life With the Right Party Vendors

Ensure your kid or adult pool party is a success by hiring the right party vendors. Sure, you know how to hang up some streamers and put out a bowl of chips and dip. But an event professional will take your party to the next level with wow-worthy décor, mouth-watering catering, show-stopping entertainment, and much more.

PartySlate is here to connect you with the best event professionals near you. Head to our curated directory to find party planners, caterers, décor teams, and more. 

Make sure to use the sidebar filters to narrow your search by location, event type, and pro category. Once you select your pro category, you can also further narrow your search by services offered.