From coast to coast, Labor Day and pool parties are synonymous with one another. It’s hard to imagine a Labor Day get-together that doesn’t involve one last dip in the pool before the pool closes down for the season, the kiddos head back to school, fall weather, and the onset of pumpkin spice everything unfolds. If you’re hosting one last hurrah for family and friends, you can make this year’s farewell-to-summer party the best ever with the tips and Labor Day pool party ideas that follow.

Set the Mood

When it comes to a memorable Labor Day pool party, décor matters. Red, white and blue décor is the order of the day; after all, nothing is more American than a Labor Day pool party bash. From tablecloths to the plates and cups you use for your Labor Day feast, Americana décor is bountiful in stores from May onward in preparation for the July 4th holiday. As a bonus, you can probably find red-white-blue options deeply discounted at big box stores (leftover from Independence Day) if you look hard enough.

Want to host a Labor Day pool party but not into the whole Americana thing? It’s ok. You can opt for a theme party instead and choose your decorations based on your theme. For instance, one of the best Labor Day pool party ideas is a luau theme complete with a Hawaiian-themed cookout menu, leis, themed music, and more. Other suggestions include a character party such as Harry Potter or pirates, 70s party, clam bake, outdoor movie night, block party, neighborhood potluck, and beach theme.

Fabulous Food for Friends and Family

One of the biggest draws (other than the inviting pool water) for a Labor Day party is the food. Keep in mind that gathering around the pool means you need to keep it super casual. A buffet is a good option for both food and beverages, and it reduces work for you because people can serve themselves (allowing you one last opportunity to soak up the sun before you close down your pool for the season). An American menu is always a big hit – from burgers and brats to wings and kebabs (and ice cream and watermelon, of course). Another fast and well-loved Labor Day pool party idea, although not American per se, is to host a pizza buffet featuring a few pies from your favorite takeout joint. Fast, easy, crowd-pleasing option that’s well-received by everyone.

Remember, planning is key to throwing a Labor Day party your peeps will never forget. Before too long, you’ll be cooped up watching the snow fly and dreaming of being in your pool, working on your tan—so it makes sense to put extra thought and effort into this last opportunity for fun this summer. Let creativity be your guide when it comes to Labor Day pool party ideas, and your guests will certainly appreciate it.

Carlton Pools: Helping to Keep Your Pool Clean and Clear

Now that you have some Labor Day pool party ideas to work with and you’re stoked and ready to host a Labor Day pool party, don’t forget: Labor Day marks the unofficial end of the pool season. Reach out to Carlton Pools, a leading pool store for Flemington, NJ, to help you close your pool down properly for the season. Get pool supplies for Royersford, PA, and the surrounding areas, to make maintaining your pool fast and easy. Contact us today for more information!