Your Guide to Throwing a Last-Minute Summer Party for Kids

Let’s hear it for the parents savoring every bit of summer before back to school starts. That’s right,  summer’s not over yet! If you’re scrambling to plan an end-of-summer bash for your kids, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. From easy DIY decorations to fun games and tasty treats, here are some fantastic last-minute ideas to help you throw an epic end-of-summer party that the kiddos will love!

1. Set the Scene: Quick and Easy Decorations

First things first, let’s talk about decorations. You don’t need to spend a fortune or hours crafting to create a festive atmosphere.

a. Balloons and Streamers: These are party staples that you can pick up at any dollar store, try Dollar Tree or Five Below. Go for bright, summery colors like yellow, blue, and pink. Scatter balloons around the yard and hang streamers from trees or your porch.

b. DIY Banners: No need to make it perfect. Try a simple “End of Summer” banner made with existing art supplies like construction paper or old magazine scraps. Let the kids help you cut out and decorate the letters. 

c. Beach Vibes: Lay out beach towels, umbrellas, and inflatable pool toys to give your yard a fun, beachy feel. If you have a sandbox, scatter a few seashells for an added touch. We love this pack of cheap seashells from Amazon.

d. Fairy Lights: If your party will go into the evening, string up some fairy lights to add a magical touch. 

2. Fun Activities to Keep the Kids Engaged

Now that you’ve got the place looking festive, let’s move on to activities. Here are some easy and exciting games to keep the kids entertained.

a. Water Balloon Toss: This classic game is always a hit. Pair up the kids and give each pair a water balloon. Have them toss it back and forth, taking a step back after each successful catch. The last pair with an intact balloon wins.

b. DIY Slip and Slide: All you need is a tarp, some water, and a little bit of soap. Lay the tarp out on the grass, wet it down, add some soap, and let the kids slide to their hearts’ content.

c. Scavenger Hunt: Create a simple list of summer-themed items for the kids to find around the yard. Think seashells, flowers, or even a specific colored rock.

d. Arts and Crafts Station: Set up a table with markers, paint, and various craft supplies. Let the kids decorate seashells or create their own summer-themed art. Our latest all ages craft is to let the kid’s make their own spray paint art. Pick up some dollar store spray bottles and just add paint (washable, of course!)

e. Outdoor Movie Night: If you have a projector, set up an outdoor movie screen with blankets and pillows. Pick a family-friendly movie and let the kids wind down with a good film.

3. Delicious and Easy-to-Make Snacks

No party is complete without some tasty treats. Here are some simple and delicious snack Party ideas that are perfect for a last-minute party.

a. Fruit Kabobs: Thread chunks of pineapple, watermelon, and grapes onto skewers. They’re refreshing and easy to eat.

b. Mini Sandwiches: Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes out of sandwiches. Think stars, hearts, or even simple circles. We found the cutest shapes!

c. DIY Sundae Bar: Set out bowls of ice cream and a variety of toppings like sprinkles, chocolate chips, and fruit. Let the kids create their own sundaes.

d. Popsicles: Store-bought popsicles are an easy and refreshing treat. If you have time, you can make your own with fruit juice and molds.

e. Popcorn Station: Set up a popcorn machine or simply pop some in the microwave. Offer different toppings like cheese powder, caramel, or even chocolate drizzle.

4. Refreshing Drinks for Hot Days

Keep the kids hydrated with these fun and refreshing drink ideas.

a. Lemonade Stand: Set up a simple lemonade stand with a few different flavors like classic lemonade, strawberry lemonade, and mint lemonade.

b. Fruit-Infused Water: Add slices of cucumber, lemon, or berries to a pitcher of water for a refreshing twist.

c. Smoothies: Blend up some fruit and yogurt for a healthy and delicious drink.

d. DIY Mocktails: Create fun, non-alcoholic mocktails with fruit juice, soda water, and garnishes like cherries or citrus slices.

5. Party Favors: Simple and Sweet

Send the kids home with a little something to remember the party by.

a. DIY Goodie Bags: Fill small bags with stickers, bubbles, and a few pieces of candy.

b. Personalized Crafts: Let the kids take home their arts and crafts creations from the party.

c. Seashell Keepsakes: If you did a seashell scavenger hunt, let the kids keep the shells they found.

d. Mini Beach Balls: These are inexpensive and fit perfectly into a goodie bag.

6. Get the Music Right

Set the mood with a fun and upbeat playlist. Think summer hits, kids’ favorites, and maybe even some classic Disney tunes.

Our favorite Spotify playlists for kids:

a. Dance Party: Create a space for the kids to dance and let them burn off some energy.

b. Musical Chairs: This classic game is always a hit and requires minimal setup.

7. Bonus Tips for a Smooth Party

a. Keep it Simple: Don’t stress yourself out with too many activities or elaborate decorations. The kids Party will have fun as long as there are things to do and snacks to eat.

b. Ask for Help: If you have friends or family who can lend a hand, don’t hesitate to ask. More hands make for lighter work.

c. Have a Backup Plan: If the weather doesn’t cooperate, be ready to move some of the activities indoors.

d. Capture the Moments: Take plenty of photos to remember the day. You can even set up a simple photo booth or disposable camera stations with props for some fun snapshots.

8. Real Places to Host Your Party

If your yard isn’t suitable for a party, check out the thousands of places listed on Go Greatest!

Here are some of our favorites!

• Bowling Alley
• Batting Cages
• Mini Golf
• Public Park (usually free!)
• Public Pool
• Roller Rink