How to Throw an Epic Lake Party
We're talking rose gold flamingo floats and big-batch cocktails.
While you may be gearing up for the start of the school year, that doesn’t mean it’s time to say goodbye to summer fun. We still have plenty of warm weather to embrace, friends. I don’t know about you, but I’m a big proponent of celebrating every last second of the season. So, how do I suggest celebrating these glorious (read: hot) last weeks of summer? By throwing the most epic lake party ever. Sure, a pool party is trendy and fun — chic, even. BUT, a lake party is the pool party’s cooler older sibling — laid-back, no-stress. The best part? Well, you don’t need access to a pool to throw one.
I’m laying out everything you’ll need for an unforgettable day. Grab a notepad; it’s time to plan a party.
Big-Batch Cocktails
![Make a Watermelon Party Keg](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/video/0/02/024/0242/0242573.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.1280.720.85.suffix/1660752351117.jpeg)
First things first, greet your guests with a generous batch of premade cocktails. This ensures you’re not stuck mixing drinks all day, which is a major win in my book.
Our Favorite Big-Batch Summer Cocktails
See All PhotosDIY Beverage Boat
![DIY Beverage Boat](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/video/0/02/025/0253/0253842.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.1280.720.85.suffix/1660746210877.jpeg)
Make this super-simple beverage boat to keep all the other drinks (beer, sparkling water, soda, etc.) chilled as you float.
Trendy Floats
![Rose Gold Flamingo Float Pink Flamingo Pool Float](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2017/7/27/2/CI_Gilks_epic-lake-party-flamingo-float.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.85.suffix/1501199504096.jpeg)
Glik's
Speaking of floating, you’re going to need some inflatables for the water. We’re all about trendy varieties, like this adorable rose gold flamingo from Glik’s.
Must-Have Party Accessories
![Beach House-Perfect Towels Coastal Decor](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2016/1/28/0/CI_Beachfront-Bargain-Hunt-Decor18.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.85.suffix/1454009238945.jpeg)
082415
While you’re at it, stock up on other must-have accessories for the day, like stylish towels, a fun beach ball and party straws.
Outdoor Speaker + Party Tunes
![Big Turtle Shell Bluetooth Speaker Big Turtle Shell Bluetooth Speaker](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2015/3/26/1/SSS-Outdoor-Entertaining-Big-Turtle-Speaker.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.85.suffix/1427420000806.jpeg)
OutdoorTech
Music is a must. Don’t own an outdoor speaker? Consider investing in the wireless, water-resistant Big Turtle Shell. Looking for a playlist? We’ve got you covered.
Self-Serve Eats
![How to Set Up a Self-Serve Hot Dog Bar Hot Dog Bar with Condiments](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2015/6/2/0/Original_Brian-Patrick-Flynn_Hot-Dog-Bar_Lead_2.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.411.85.suffix/1433252974033.jpeg)
Flynnside Out Productions
As dinnertime rolls around, set up a simple, self-serve hot dog bar. Prep your toppings ahead of time, and keep sides simple — like chips and premade dips.
How to Set Up a Hot Dog Bar
See All PhotosAll-Natural Bug Repellent
![3 All-Natural Bug Repellents](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/video/0/02/025/0252/0252806.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.1280.720.85.suffix/1661831984568.jpeg)
As dusk approaches, make sure you have bug repellent. Try one of our all-natural solutions.
Backyard Games
Set up games in the yard for partygoers who don’t like to swim and for post-dinner entertainment. Check out two of our DIY options:
1: DIY Tic-Tac-Toe
![DIY Super-Sized Tic Tac Toe Add BIG time fun to your next outdoor get together with this over-sized Tic Tac Toe game you can build with your kids!](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2017/3/6/1/Original-HSH17_BPF_DIY-Tic-Tac-Toe_COVER.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.85.suffix/1488852317713.jpeg)
Tomas Espinoza
Make This: Giant Outdoor Tic-Tac-Toe
2: DIY Cornhole
![Designer Cornhole Boards Yellow, Purple and Turquoise Chevron Cornhole Board](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2016/11/8/0/CI_Emilee-Stanley-Photography_designer-cornhole-board_beauty_h.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.85.suffix/1478642628022.jpeg)
Emilee Stanley Photography
Make This: DIY Designer Cornhole Boards
Outdoor Movie
![DIY Outdoor Movie Theater](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/video/0/02/027/0270/0270014.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.1280.720.85.suffix/1661797774530.jpeg)
End your lake party with an outdoor movie (epic, right?). Grab a couple sheets and a projector, and you’ll be pleased with the simplicity of the setup.