Memorial Day Pool Party Guide - 2024
Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, and what better way to celebrate than with a pool party. Not a pool owner? No problem. This year, host your summer celebrations at stunning private pools, available for hourly rental through Swimply! Swimply is the go-to app for finding and booking unique pool venues by the hour, making it easier than ever to plan the ultimate Memorial Day bash. In this guide, we'll share tips and ideas to help you create a memorable and fun-filled summer pool party that your guests will never forget. From poolside BBQs to patriotic decor, we've got everything you need to make this Memorial Day one to remember.
Selecting A Pool Party Venue
Finding the perfect party pool for your Memorial Day celebration has never been easier with Swimply. Begin your search by entering your desired dates and location to see all available pools in your area. Use the app's search filters to narrow down your options based on criteria such as size, amenities, and price range. Swimply Hosts determine the booking size for their pool and whether or not it’s party-friendly, so be sure to check the pool description for any specific rules or restrictions. To find a pool that is perfect for hosting a party, narrow your search with the ‘party’ filter. This will show you pools that are specifically listed as suitable for events and gatherings.
When browsing through the available pools, take advantage of the photos and detailed descriptions provided by hosts to get a better sense of each pool's layout and features. Filter your search for pools with amenities that will enhance your Memorial Day weekend, such as BBQ grills for cooking up delicious meals, fire pits for cozy evening gatherings, and hot tubs for relaxing after a long day of fun in the sun. Swimply has every type of pool ambiance, from saltwater to chlorine swims, infinity pools to lap pools, there are hundreds of listings to choose from for your event venue. With Swimply's user-friendly interface and comprehensive search options, you'll be sure to find the perfect pool venue for your Memorial Day celebration in no time.
Decorate Your Space
Memorial Day weekend is the perfect time to gather with friends and family for a fun-filled pool party. One of the key elements of a successful pool party is the decoration. Decorating your pool party space can help set the mood and create a festive atmosphere for your guests to enjoy. Whether you're hosting a small gathering or a big bash, there are plenty of creative ways to decorate your space for a Memorial Day weekend pool party. Below are some tips and ideas to help you create a stunning and patriotic decor that will set the scene for your event.
- Patriotic Bunting and Banners: Deck out your private pool rental in red, white, and blue decorations to honor the occasion. Think American flags, patriotic banners, and colorful bunting to set the festive mood.
- American Flags: Display American flags in various sizes around the pool area or use them as table centerpieces.
- Pool Floats and Inflatables: Fill the pool with splashes of fun and color with American flag pool floats or beach balls.
- Outdoor Lighting: Use string lights, lanterns, or tiki torches to illuminate the pool area and create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Lots of Swimply pools come equipped with fun and festive outdoor lighting to set the tone for your party.
- Patriotic Tableware: Supply your party food and drink area with disposable plates, cups, and utensils in patriotic colors or designs. You can also use red, white, and blue tablecloths and napkins. Search Swimply for pools with outdoor dining setups and serve snacks and refreshments on decorated table tops.
- Memorial Day Tribute: Set up a memorial area with photos or mementos to honor those who have served. You can also create a display with flags or patriotic symbols.
- Patriotic Food and Drinks: Serve food and drinks that are themed for Memorial Day. This could include red, white, and blue desserts, such as cupcakes or fruit skewers, and drinks with patriotic colors, like cocktails or mocktails.
- Patriotic Pool Lighting: Ask your Swimply host if their pool or hot tub lighting is adjustable and set the color scheme to Memorial Day colors. Adding pool lights in red, white, and blue colors to illuminate the water at night adds an extra patriotic touch to the party atmosphere.
Pool Party Ideas for Memorial Day Weekend
- Poolside BBQ: Fire up the grill and host a classic American BBQ by the pool this Memorial Day weekend. Swimply has tons of pools with gorgeous, top of the line grilling set-ups for all your cookout needs. Serve up burgers, hot dogs, and all the fixings, and don't forget to have plenty of cold drinks on hand to keep your guests refreshed. Gear up to grill in style with American flag themed cookware, like a patriotic apron and grilling gloves.
- Games and Activities: Keep your guests entertained with a variety of pool games and activities. Set up a volleyball net for a friendly game of water volleyball, shoot hoops with a water basketball set, or organize a relay race with pool noodles and inflatables. Filter your Swimply search with the ‘games’ filter, under amenities, to find pools already equipped with activities for your event.
- Poolside Movie Night: Set up a projector and screen by the pool for a movie night under the stars, or filter your Swimply search to pools with outdoor TV/projector setups. Choose a selection of classic American movies and let your guests float and watch from the pool for a summer night to remember. Serve up popcorn and candy for the ultimate ‘dive-in’ movie experience.
- DIY Sundae Bar: Create a DIY sundae bar with all the toppings for a sweet treat that your guests can enjoy by the pool. Include a variety of ice cream flavors, sauces, sprinkles, and other toppings for guests to choose from. Search Swimply for pools with outdoor dining setups and serve up your sundaes on decorated table tops.
- Live Music or DJ: Hire a local musician or DJ to provide live music for your Memorial Day weekend pool party. Set up a dance floor by the pool and let your guests dance the night away to their favorite tunes. In preparation for the big day or night, send out a collaborative playlist to your guests so everyone can contribute to the tunes selection.
- Poolside Cocktails: Create a signature cocktail for your pool party, such as a refreshing mojito or a fruity sangria. Serve the cocktails in fun, Memorial Day themed glasses for an extra touch of flair.
- Water Balloon Fight: Organize a water balloon fight for your guests to cool off and have some fun. Provide plenty of red, white and blue water balloons and a designated area for the battle to ensure everyone stays safe.
- Memorial Day Tribute: Take a moment to honor the true meaning of Memorial Day with a tribute to those who have served. Have a moment of silence or a reading of a patriotic poem to remind your guests of the significance of the holiday.
- Poolside Photo Booth: Set up a photo booth area near the pool with fun props like sunglasses, inflatable pool toys, and patriotic accessories. Create a festive backdrop or post in front of balloons and themed streamers. Encourage your guests to take photos throughout the party and share them on social media with a custom hashtag. This not only provides entertainment but also creates lasting memories of your Memorial Day celebration.
Pool Party Essentials
When attending a pool party, preparation is key to ensuring you have a fantastic time splashing in the sun. Along with your swimsuit, there are several essentials you should consider bringing to enhance your poolside experience. From sun protection to snacks, having the right items on hand can make all the difference. Here's a comprehensive list of things you might want to bring to a Memorial Day weekend pool party to ensure you're ready for a day of fun in the water and sun.
- Swimsuit: The most important item for a pool party! Make sure to wear a swimsuit that you're comfortable in and that is appropriate for the occasion. Bonus points if your bathing suit is on theme for Memorial Day with red, white and blue stars and stripes.
- Towel: Bring a towel to dry off after swimming or to lay on if you want to sunbathe by the pool. Match your towel to the party theme or check and see if your Swimply host has towels on site with amenities filters in the app.
- Sunscreen: Protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays is crucial, especially when spending extended periods outdoors at a pool party! Sunscreen is your best defense against sunburn and skin damage, so be sure to bring a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and apply it generously and regularly throughout the day. Remember to reapply after swimming or sweating, as well as every two hours, to ensure continuous protection. Additionally, consider wearing protective clothing, such as a hat and sunglasses, and seek shade during the sun's peak hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., to further reduce your risk of sunburn and sun damage.
- Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the sun and glare off the water with a pair of sunglasses. If you’re feeling inspired by the Memorial Day weekend spirit, grab a pair of American flag themed shades to wear while you party by the pool.
- Cover-Up: Having a cover-up or lightweight clothing to slip on over your swimsuit is not only practical but also adds to your comfort and style at a pool party. A stylish cover-up can protect your skin from the sun's rays when you're not swimming, providing an extra layer of sun protection. It's also perfect for when you need to take a break from the water and want to relax or grab a bite to eat without having to change out of your swimsuit completely. Additionally, lightweight clothing, such as a breezy summer dress or a casual shirt and shorts, can keep you cool and comfortable throughout the day while adding a fashionable touch to your poolside look.
- Flip Flops or Sandals: The perfect pool party shoe is a pair of flip flops or slides. Easy to slip on and off and perfect for walking around the pool area.
- Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially when spending time in the sun and heat. Dehydration can sneak up on you, leading to fatigue, headaches, and even heat exhaustion. Having a water bottle allows you to sip on water throughout the day, keeping you refreshed and hydrated. With all the excitement and activities at a pool party, it's easy to forget to drink enough water. Having a water bottle on hand serves as a reminder to take regular sips and stay hydrated. Additionally, bringing your own water bottle is environmentally friendly. It reduces the need for single-use plastic bottles, helping to minimize waste and protect the environment.
Safety Measures for Your Memorial Day Pool Party
Diving into the festivities is all fun and games until safety comes into question. When hosting a pool party, it’s crucial to prioritize the well-being of your guests. From ensuring uninterrupted supervision to protect the little ones from accidental drownings to sun protection against the fierce summer rays, safety measures are the backbone of a successful event. Let’s explore some practices to keep your pool party not only fun but also safe for everyone involved.
Lifeguard on Duty
While you’re mingling with guests and ensuring everyone has a burger in hand, having a professional lifeguard on duty can offer peace of mind. A vigilant set of expert eyes can watch over the pool, ready to jump into action if needed. This is especially important if your pool party is teeming with guests or features like diving boards and slides. Remember, the safety of every swimmer is paramount, and a lifeguard can help ensure that everyone has a good time without any issues.
Sunscreen Stop
Sunscreen and pool parties go hand in hand. With the sun beaming down, it’s all too easy for guests to get caught up in the fun and forget about protecting their skin. By setting up sunscreen stations around the pool area, you’re providing a convenient and friendly reminder to slather on some SPF.
First Aid Readiness
Even with all the fun and laughter, accidents can happen. That’s why a well-equipped first aid kit is non-negotiable for any pool party. Stock it with essentials tailored for the setting, like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and a CPR mask. With these safety measures in place, you can breathe a sigh of relief and focus on enjoying the celebration.
Hydration Station
Under the summer sun, keeping your guests hydrated is key, and a hydration station is your best ally. Prepare a table lined with pitchers of fruit-infused water, offering hydration in the form of colorful combinations like strawberry-basil, cucumber-mint, and blue fruit. And for a patriotic twist, serve up non-alcoholic drinks that layer beautifully in red, white, and blue. These thirst-quenchers are sure to be a hit, and they’ll keep your guests cool as they enjoy the festivities.