Cool and Colorful Summer Party Theme Ideas

It's summer time and the livin' is easy. These are the days for backyard barbecues, tiki parties by the pool and holiday celebrations. Make outdoor entertaining stylish and a breeze with one of these colorful summer party theme ideas.

Any time can be Tiki Time with this retro-inspired table pattern that features a smiling tiki god. Pair it with colorful sectional trays and themed goblets available in Party City retail stores.

Use small flags and pinwheels to give your Memorial Day or 4th of July party a sweet, home town feel! Extend the star-spangled theme with bold plates and cups. This patriotic tableware comes in value packs, so go ahead and invite the whole block to your place! March on over to our 15 Sweet 4th of July Party Ideas Gallery for a parade of aww-worthy cupcakes, candy and party favor ideas!

Your guests will feel like they've been transported to a tropical island when they glimpse your table done in floral motifs rendered in delicious shades of pink, blue, yellow and orange. Set off your plates with hot pink chargers, matching water goblets and gem table scatter. Your guests won't want to leave!

Even when you're having a casual picnic at the beach, why not up the ante with some stylish surf-inspired tableware? Start with this summery pattern, then add beach-safe plastic serving pieces and margarita stemware with a floral garnish. Your surfside soiree will be the envy of everyone else on the sand.

Vanilla plates just won't do! Make your ice cream social even more satisfying by choosing playful tableware that's a true treat for the eyes. These colorful Cabana Polka Dot plates, cups and napkins are so full of lively colors, they pair perfectly with ice cream colors as well as with any "flavor" of solid-color plates and cutlery.

Plan your party with Mother Earth in mind by choosing eco-chic party plates, cups and even serving pieces that are crafted from sustainable materials including bamboo, recycled paper and corn fiber. Pair these pretty pink, green and brown Linen Flower plates with green bamboo mats and bowls plus bamboo serving pieces for the ultimate garden party.

Blue skies and summer flowers set the mood for al fresco dining with this cheerful tableware pattern done in an updated square shape. Pair the plates with perfectly pink cutlery, drinkware and serving pieces. This sophisticated and bright look would be perfect for your brunch or baby shower.

When it comes to summer parties, everyone looks forward to their favorite refreshing drinks: mojitos, margaritas and martinis. Make a fashionable statement with your stemware by choosing a variety of colorful plastic pieces that safely can go from poolside to the beach.

Whether you're celebrating a patriotic holiday or just a backyard barbeque, give your summer grilling party a festive red, white and blue theme starring this American Summer Red Gingham pattern. Set off the bold red-and-white gingham checks with royal blue cutlery and a sparkling spray centerpiece.