2022 brings the first Memorial Day weekend in years where COVID-19 probably isn’t putting a damper on your plans. Whether you’re hosting a lavish pool party for adults only, or a family-friendly pool party to let all the kids have a blast, you need to start with some planning.Â
On Memorial Day Monday, please take time to honor our fallen military personnel. You can do this in a range of ways. You may simply say a prayer or observe a moment of silence before eating. Or, you can also travel to Washington, D.C. for the National Memorial Day Parade or Memorial Day Observance at the Wall.Â
Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, and often includes the first pool party of the year. If you’re lucky enough to have an inground pool, you know what we mean. You may want to host your party on Saturday or Sunday so people can stay up late or sleep in the next day.
Let’s go over some of the things you’ll need to do.
If you haven’t already opened the pool yourself or had a pool care company come in, you’ll need to open your pool, clean it, and balance the chemicals. You want the water crystal clear for your party.
You probably did this a while ago, as soon as you realized the possibility of a real pool party this year. Don’t hesitate to invite a few more. Text invitations are acceptable. Remind everyone to bring a swimsuit and towel. Also, remind your guests that they should stay home if you’re they’re not feeling well.
Some people love having a theme for a party. If that’s you, go for it. From Red, White, and Blue to a Luau, there are plenty of ideas out there, complete with decorations and tableware. But if you’re a more laid-back sort, that’s okay too. The main thing is to have fun.
At most pool parties, the host supplies the meat and vegetarian main dish options as well as the beverages. Guests frequently offer to bring side dishes or desserts. If people ask, feel free to give them a suggestion of what they can bring.Â
The menu can revolve around your theme if you have one. Otherwise, have fun trying out new recipes on the grill. Be sure to have some old standards like burgers and hot dogs for the kids.Â
But for adults with more discerning palates, check out these ideas from Bon Appetit magazine, or these ideas from Food and Wine Magazine. We especially want to try the Salmon Skewers with Almond Charmoula.
For the best Memorial Day pool party, you want to be outside where the action is. That means using your outdoor kitchen to the fullest. So remember to use your gas grill, side burners, flat top, and Big Green Egg.
You might want to enlist a friend to help keep an eye on everything. And be sure to keep uncooked meat and fish in the outdoor fridge until the last possible minute. And don’t let food sit out too long after mealtime, you don’t want anyone getting food poisoning!
Kids may head straight to the pool. Have plenty of pool toys such as inflatable beach balls, and diving toys ready. Get an older teen to help organize the younger kids into playing Marco Polo or Sharks and Minnows.Â
In the meantime, for adults who want to stay somewhat active, you can set up a cornhole game, horseshoes, or giant yard games like Tumbling Towers or Connect Four.
Any good party needs a soundtrack. Select your playlists and hook up your phone to your outdoor sound system or Bluetooth speaker. If kids will be attending, make sure you curate the playlists accordingly.Â
Related Reading: Sonance: The Outdoor Sound System of Choice
Everyone loves a good party, especially if you haven’t all gotten together for a while. Have fun and enjoy each other’s company. You deserve it.
If you’re looking to upgrade your backyard with a new patio or outdoor kitchen, we can help. We design and install luxury outdoor living spaces our clients love. Use the contact form to schedule an on-site consultation or call 301.720.1000. We work with homeowners in Maryland, DC, and Northern Virginia.
