Summer Outdoor Theme Parties

Traditional English summer garden parties, or barbeques are normally relaxed affair's, with everyone bringing a bottle or two, and food cooking on the barbeque. But how to turn this, into more of a theme party?

Well let's first take a look at the types of themes, which may suit: - Australian, Beach party, Roman or Toga party.

Now each of these themes is pretty easy to set up, with the aid of a few props or party decorations. Let's take a look at each theme party in turn.

Australian theme party

Great for those who like a lot of fun with their party themes.

With corked hats, and few inflatable kangaroos, you have the beings of a great Australian theme party. Add in a little Australian bunting and hey presto your theme is all put together. Now for food you could always try serving some kangaroo or emu burgers. Shrimps and fresh fruit too are great added to this type of party buffet too. Just whack them on the Barbie.

Beach theme party.

Sand or at least a sand pit helps this party theme. It's a great for those who have to keep the whole family entertained. As you can hire a Punch and Judy show to keep the little one amused, or bouncy castle, not to mention the sand pit.

Flags and bunting look great as it adds colour to a large area, especially if you can get hold of some beach party bunting. Beach balls, fish, net's, boats, bucket and spades all can add to the atmosphere.

For this party buffet, anything goes, from picnic fare up to fish and chips.

Roman or Toga theme party.

This can be a feast and a great celebration. This type of party is ideal for large numbers of people.
White sheets, laurel leaf headdresses are the order of the day here. The more rich fabric you throw at this party the better it will look.

Gazebos can be set up, with piles of cushions which guest can laze about on. Fountains, statues, and the odd Greek column help to create this theme. You can, if time allows make some Greek columns with a little chicken wire and paper mache (Just remember to weigh the bottom of the column down with a lump of concrete; otherwise you will spend your time, picking the column up again.) Vines, grapes and jugs of wine can add atmosphere. You could also add some Italian bunting to set the scene although not strictly roman, it will help to decorate your party space.

With the buffet whole roast suckling pigs, grapes, pomegranates, mince wrapped in vine-leaves are the order of the day, as too are oysters. This is not a party to do on a small budget, as everything needs to look expensive, and you need to have lots of food.

Entertainment should come in the shape of dancing slaves and Roman music, I would try to avoid holding gladiator battles, far too messy not to mention expensive. At your Roman or toga party anything should go, entertainment wise.

Cruise theme party.

The best thing about the cruise party theme is it can be held indoor at short notice if the weather turn's bad. All you need for this party is colourful flags, portholes, seagulls, anchors and rum. It's up to you whether you are at sea or near a port. If your at a port you could simply add in things for that location. Such as Hawaiian leis, and coconuts etc. to set the scene.

Navy blazers, and white shorts or trousers are the order of the day, with of course a ships captain. Cruise food can be anything you like. But the table centre needs to be a great display of food artfully arranged. Other than that the world is your lobster.

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