From backyard camping to luau: 4 themes for your summer party

Summer parties are a ton of fun whether they be with friends or family, but why not jazz it up a little by adding a theme? Here are four ideas, along with recipes, that are fun for both kids and adults!

BBQ cookoff

Everyone loves a good summer BBQ, but why not kick it up a notch and get some healthy competition going! You can have a contest to see which team or individual can make the best barbecued dish. Spouses and kids vote on the best dish and the winner gets the honour of being the BBQ master of the summer. You can even make it protein specific — best barbecued fish, ribs, chicken, etc. There’s no better way to spend a summer day than with friends, food and a fun competition!

Recipes:
Flank steak with fresh salsa
Chilli-espresso ribs

Summer harvest party

So many foods are finally in season now that summer’s here, so why not take advantage? Get your dinner guests to bring dishes with seasonal food, or take it to the next level and ask them to use local food. Not only will you support farmers and markets in your area, but you’ll also be eating some of the freshest produce you can find!

Recipes:
Grilled chicken breast with Ontario peach, corn and bacon ragout
Roasted Ontario tomato bisque

Backyard camping

This theme is great for kids and a good stand-in if you don’t have time to get away to a campsite this summer. Set up the tent in the backyard and bring out all the essentials — Hot dogs, s’mores, campfire songs and sleeping bags are a must! If your bylaws permit, you can also build your very own campfire. The kids will love this change to their nighttime routine and you’ll be able to fall asleep under the stars.

Recipes:
5 ways to make the best s’mores ever + our favourite recipes
Campfire meatloaf with beer-can couscous

The ultimate luau

Luaus are perfect for summer! Dig out your tiki torches, grass skirts and Hawaiian music to set the scene. If you want to take it to the next level, why not have a pig roast? They’re typical of luaus and will get friends involved. While the pig is roasting, you can make your own leis or learn to hula dance on YouTube.