How to Throw an Unforgettable End-of-Summer Bash for Your Grandkids

Every time I log into Facebook, I see more and more of my friends’ grandkids either returning to school (hello to my Arizona friends and readers!) or getting ready to return… where has this summer gone?! Sadly, these lazy dog days are coming to a close, which has me thinking about ways to celebrate another great summer break and get the kids excited to go back to school (I will have more ideas on that in the coming days and weeks!). 

If you want to throw a summer bash for your grandkids that they will never forget, read on, as I have brainstormed a few easy and fun ways to bid this season adieu and bring in the next: 

1. Choose a theme

If you have been here awhile, you know that I, Devoted Grandma, LOVE a great theme, as it gives the party direction and makes everything more fun. The theme can be anything from a Hawaiian Luau to a classic pool party, a garden picnic, or even a beach-themed bonanza if you live near the coast.

2. Plan your menu

Is it even a party without great food and Grandma’s famous cookies? In my house, it is not. Keep it simple and summery, a la hot dogs, burgers, fresh fruits, and plenty of ice-cold lemonade.

3. Organize fun games

What’s a party without games? Plan a treasure hunt, a water balloon fight, or have a mini Olympics with classic games like a three-legged race or tug-of-war!

4. Create a DIY photo booth

In case you missed it, I LOVE a DIY photo booth (so much so that I wrote an entire article about it, hehe) and think an end-of-summer party is the perfect time for one! All you need is a camera, some props (think hats, sunglasses, funny signs), and a colorful backdrop for a surefire way to capture those end-of-summer smiles and make lasting memories.

5. Other potential activities

Here is the thing: I have a tendency to go way overboard on everything, especially when it pertains to parties, so remember that literally anything you choose is going to be a win. However, if you are looking for more things to do, you should consider:

1. Outdoor movie night: Transform your backyard into an outdoor cinema for the evening with a projector, a white sheet for the screen, and plenty of comfy cushions and blankets. Choose a family-friendly film, pop some popcorn, and let the magic of cinema under the stars take over!
2. Craft corner: Set up a craft corner where kids can create summer-inspired art to take home, whether it’s painting seashells, making wind chimes, or even crafting DIY bird feeders. Crafts are a great way to keep them entertained, and they’ll have a keepsake to remember the party.
3. DIY Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Who can resist a good ice cream sundae? Set up a DIY ice cream bar with a few flavors of ice cream, different types of toppings, and let the kids make their own sundaes. It’s a fun activity and a delicious treat, all rolled into one!
4. Chalk Art Competition: Give each child a section of the driveway and some colorful chalk, and let their imaginations run wild! You could even have a competition for the most creative, funniest, or most summer-themed art piece.
5. Dance-off: Crank up the tunes and hold a friendly dance-off for a great way to get everyone moving and shaking! Heck, you could even teach them some of your own dance moves from back in the day.

6. End it with a bang!

As the day winds down, gather everyone for a special end-of-summer ritual. Whether it’s a bonfire where you roast marshmallows and tell stories or releasing floating lanterns in the sky, the goal is to create a moment that beautifully closes the chapter of this summer.

Conclusion

As I mentioned, I tend to take things a little too far when it comes to festivities, so don’t feel like you need to spend an arm and a leg on an extravagant party. It’s not about throwing the most extravagant party but celebrating the joyous summer days that have passed and creating lasting memories with your grandkids. Break out the sun hats and the ice cream, and let’s send off this summer season with a bash to remember!