Build a Pool
Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial commencement of summer, with people all over the country participating in outdoor gatherings.
This guide will uncover the essential components for orchestrating an impeccable Memorial Day pool party, encompassing everything from pool preparation to entertainment options.
Preparing Your Pool
Preparing your pool area requires attention to both safety and aesthetics before guests arrive. A clean, well-maintained swimming area with proper chemical balance creates the perfect backdrop for your Memorial Day celebration.
Cleaning and maintenance
Proper pool maintenance is the cornerstone of a successful Memorial Day party. Careful pool preparation ensures your pool is crystal clear for your part.
Get your pool water tested a week prior to Memorial Day (Water Testing is FREE at a Carlton Pools store). Analyze pH, chlorine, and alkalinity levels, and make all of the necessary adjustments. 48 hours before your pool party, consider shocking the pool. This will make the pool as clear as possible, and won’t harm swimmers.
Vacuum the pool floor to eliminate debris, sediment, and other contaminants that make the water dirty. Also, brush the pool walls and steps so every spot of your pool is clean.
Setting up poolside seating and shade
Arrange seating options around the pool, and try to position them in ways that accommodate varying group sizes and promote interpersonal engagement.
Remember, your goal is to accommodate multiple guest preferences, so have some furniture in the shade, while others are positioned in the sun.
Allocate a dedicated zone for food and spirits, and make sure it’s easily accessible.
Food and Drinks for a Memorable Celebration
Serve refreshing food and drinks that guests can enjoy between dips in the pool.
Easy-to-serve snacks and beverages
Keep your guests refreshed and satisfied with a spread of easy-to-serve snacks and drinks perfect for a poolside celebration.
Set up a self-serve station with chilled fruit skewers featuring juicy watermelon, pineapple, and grapes—colorful, hydrating, and mess-free for grabbing between swims. Pair these with crispy veggie cups filled with hummus or guacamole, served in individual portions for quick snacking.
For heartier bites, offer mini sliders or chicken skewers that guests can pick up without utensils.
Keep drinks simple yet vibrant: a dispenser of cucumber-mint infused water, a tangy lemonade stand with optional fruit garnishes, and a cooler stocked with ice-cold sparkling sodas or light beers. These fuss-free options ensure guests can mingle, munch, and dive back into the pool with ease.
Creative treats
Wow your guests with popsicle cocktails—blend frozen fruit popsicles into sparkling prosecco or rosé for a refreshing, Instagram-worthy drink that doubles as dessert.
Another crowd-pleaser is a DIY dessert taco bar, where guests can fill edible waffle shells with ice cream, fresh berries, and drizzles of chocolate or caramel.
For a non-alcoholic option, create a tropical smoothie bowl station with vibrant toppings like coconut flakes, mango chunks, and edible flowers. These creative treats add a splash of fun and flavor, making your celebration unforgettable.
Fun Activities and Entertainment
Entertainment makes or breaks a Memorial Day pool party. Games and music create the perfect atmosphere for guests to enjoy while they sunbathe and sip booze by the water. Here’s some pool games for all ages:
Marco Polo – One player, designated as “Marco,” navigates the pool with eyes closed, attempting to tag other swimmers who must respond “Polo”, thus creating a fun challenge that appeals to participants of various age demographics.
Treasure Dive – Distribute objects throughout the pool at various depths, challenging swimmers to retrieve these submerged items within specified time limits.
Pool Volleyball – Set up a floating net and get a volleyball game going. Create some rules that work best for water play, and play. This game is great because it can be played with a varying number of people.
Conclusion
A well-planned Memorial Day pool party can create lasting memories for your guests. By focusing on meticulous pool maintenance, thoughtfully arranged seating, refreshing food and drinks, and lively entertainment, you’ll set the stage for a vibrant and unforgettable celebration. With these elements in place, your poolside gathering will be the highlight of the holiday weekend.
