Kids Pool Party Ideas: Invitations, Decorations, and Activities

Hey splash-tastic party people!

Can you believe it’s already July 2025? That means the sun is shining, the days are long, and it’s the perfect time to make a big splash!

If you’re dreaming of a super cool, super wet, and super fun pool party, you’ve come to the right place! Get ready to turn up the tunes, grab your goggles, and prepare for the ultimate poolside adventure. We’re talking games, treats, and all the tips to make your pool party the talk of the town—or at least, the neighborhood!

Ready to make some waves? Let’s dive in!

Party Theme and Invitation Wording

First impressions are everything—and that starts with your invitations! Forget boring texts and make your invites pop. With vibrant, playful water splash graphics in fresh shades of blue and white, this Pool Party Invitation instantly sets the “let’s make a splash” tone and get everyone excited for a swimming birthday party.

Just remember to include all the vital details: date, time, location, and any special notes like “bring your swimsuit and towel!”

Fun Invitation Wording

Send themed invitations with playful wording like:

• Splash on over for a cool time!
  

• Join us under the sea for some poolside fun!
  

• Let’s flamingle by the pool! (Perfect if you’re using flamingo floats!)
  

• Calling all mermaids and mermen—it’s time to make waves!
  

• Splish, Splash, It’s a Birthday Bash!
  

• Jump In for Poolside Fun!
  

• Join us for a pool party to celebrate [Name]'s birthday!
  

• Dive on over for a splashing good time!
  

• Bring your swimsuit, towel, and biggest smile!
  

• Let’s cool off with some birthday fun in the sun!
  

Need help writing your own invitation or matching wording to a specific design? Just let me know!

Pool Party Decor and Table Settings

Get ready to transform your backyard into a fun summer pool paradise!

Transform your backyard or pool into a tropical oasis with colorful inflatables and bright balloons that bring vibrant party vibes!

Color Theme

• Turquoise, aqua, sunny yellow, white, and pops of coral or red make for a gorgeous summer palette.

Table Settings

• Use bright blue or aqua tablecloths for a watery look.
  

• Add placemats shaped like starfish or seashells.
  

• Place colorful beach towels on chairs as slipcovers.
  

• Set out fun pool-themed plates, cups, and napkins decorated with splashes, waves, or beach icons.
  

• Centerpieces can be clear vases filled with shells, sand, or floating candles.

Arrange tables near the pool with these settings to enhance the poolside atmosphere, as this table setup is perfect for serving snacks or desserts poolside. The soft blues and whites, striped runner, scalloped plates, and nautical accents like starfish and seashells create a festive seaside vibe that ties beautifully into a pool party theme.

Tropical tableware in bright colors or matching your theme adds lively energy and fun to a pool party, perfectly complementing your chosen décor style.

Decorations

• Hang paper lanterns in ocean colors.
  

• Scatter inflatable beach balls around the pool.
  

• Use pool noodles to create arches or photo booth backdrops.
  

• String bunting or banners with phrases like “Splish Splash!” or “Dive In!”

This vibrant welcome sign, featuring playful blue wave designs and dynamic water splashes, is perfect for setting the scene at a children’s summer pool party. Place it at the entrance to greet guests and instantly immerse them in the pool party vibe.

Shop the welcome sign

Yummy Poolside Snacks!

All that splashing makes a kid hungry! Here are some easy-peasy and delicious snacks:

Snack Attackers: Keep your pool party guests energized with tasty, mess-free snacks! Pretzels, goldfish crackers, mini sandwiches or sliders, and granola bars are perfect treats, offering quick bites and easy munching for guests of all ages.

Fruity Freshness: Serve up summer vibes with fresh fruit! Watermelon slices, juicy grapes, and sweet orange segments are not only delicious but also super refreshing and hydrating — perfect for a sunny pool day.

Cool Sips: Keep everyone quenched with plenty of cool drinks! Offer juice boxes, frosty lemonade, or chilled water. For a fun twist, add slices of fruit to the water for a burst of natural flavor and a splash of color.

Sweet Endings: Treat your guests to delicious poolside sweets! Colorful cookies decorated with seashell and starfish designs fit perfectly with a pool or beach theme. Fruit popsicles and ice cream cups are always a hit for cooling down. For extra fun, set up a DIY Ice Cream Cone Station where kids (and adults!) can build their own cones with favorite ice cream flavors and a variety of toppings. It’s the perfect way to end your party on a sweet note!

Fun Poolside Activities

Besides swimming, plan some games to keep everyone smiling:

• Pool Noodle Races: Kids straddle pool noodles and race across the pool.
  

• Treasure Dive: Toss weighted toys or coins into the pool for kids to retrieve.
  

• Water Balloon Toss: Great for outside the pool, too!
  

• Limbo: Use a pool noodle instead of a stick.
  

• Craft Corner: Let kids decorate their own beach visors or tote bags.
  

• Beach Ball Relay: Teams pass a beach ball overhead or between legs.
  

• Duck Races: Kids race rubber ducks across the pool by blowing on them.
  

• Ring Toss: Toss pool rings onto floating targets.
  

• Poolside Bingo: Create bingo cards with pool-themed items to spot.
  

• Sponge Toss: Toss wet sponges into buckets at varying distances.

Safety First, Always!

The sun is our friend—but it can be strong! Remind all your guests (and yourselves!) to apply sunscreen before getting anywhere near the water. Wearing a cool swim shirt (like a rash guard) and a fun hat can help protect your skin, too. And don’t forget trusty goggles for underwater exploration!

Most importantly, always make sure there are enough grown-ups watching everyone in the pool. If you’re not a strong swimmer, that’s totally okay! Just wear a life vest or use a floating device.

Remember: no running near the pool, and always enter the water feet first. And keep a first-aid kit nearby, just in case!

Favors to Take Home: Keep the Pool Party Fun Going!

Send guests home with a splash of creativity! These Water Splash Notepads are the perfect pool party favors—fun, practical, and summer-themed! Kids can use them to doodle, jot down summer memories, write thank-you notes, or even create their own mini adventure stories inspired by the party. Pair each notepad with a colorful pen or a small sticker sheet to create a cute take-home bundle that keeps the fun going even after the party ends.Shop the notepad

After the party is over, continue the fun by sending matching thank-you cards. These water splash note cards are perfect for expressing gratitude while keeping your theme going!

Shop the note card

Don't Forget the Tunes!

No pool party is complete without great music to keep the vibes high and the energy flowing! Create an awesome playlist filled with your favorite upbeat, summery songs that make everyone want to dance, sing along, or simply smile. Think tropical beats, fun pop hits, or classic summer anthems that bring back sunny memories.

Music sets the mood from the moment guests arrive, creating a festive atmosphere that makes the whole party feel special. Whether it’s blasting through speakers by the pool or playing softly in the background, the right tunes can turn swimming, lounging, and even snack breaks into a mini dance party. Be sure to include some favorite sing-along tracks for extra fun.

Remember: music is the soundtrack to your memories—so pick songs that make you and your guests feel like you’re truly soaking up summer! Even if it’s just a little wiggle in the water, everyone will be ready to move to the beat.

For extra fun, include a line on your RSVP asking guests to share their favorite song requests! This gets everyone involved and helps you build the perfect pool party playlist before the big day.

Eco-Friendly Pool Party Tips

Want to throw a pool party that’s fun and kinder to the planet? Here are a few simple ideas that families are already doing and love:

• Reusable or Compostable Tableware: Swap single-use plastic for bamboo plates, compostable cups, or even reusable dishes for a chic, sustainable look.
  

• Glass or Refillable Drink Stations: Serve drinks from pitchers or dispensers and offer reusable cups or mason jars instead of plastic bottles or juice boxes.
  

• Solar and LED Lighting: Decorate with solar-powered or energy-efficient LED lights to add a fun glow without wasting energy.
  

• Reuse or Borrow Decorations: Skip disposable décor and borrow from friends, reuse what you already have, or choose durable decorations like paper lanterns, bunting, or pool floats that you can use again.
  

• Low-Waste Party Favors: Instead of plastic toys, send kids home with something useful and sustainable like small craft kits, seed packets, or a reusable notepad that fits the water theme.
  

• Compost and Recycling Stations: Make it easy for guests to sort their waste by setting out your labeled home bins for recycling, compost, and general waste.
  

• Eco-Friendly Details: Use reusable straws (like bamboo or stainless steel), and decorate with fresh garden flowers or potted plants that double as beautiful, reusable centerpieces.
  

Small changes like these help reduce waste, add charm, and make your party feel thoughtful and modern.

Pool Party Safety Checklist:

• Apply sunscreen every 2 hours.
  

• Have a first aid kit on hand.
  

• Assign “water watchers” who aren’t distracted.
  

• Keep floats and vests available for weak swimmers.
  

• No running around the pool deck.
  

• Ensure a phone is nearby in case of emergencies.

Your Pool Party FAQs Answered!

Still have questions swimming around in your head? Let’s clear the water!

Q: What's the best time to start a pool party?
A: Mid-morning (like 10 AM or 11 AM) or mid-afternoon (like 2 PM or 3 PM) is usually best. This avoids the hottest part of the day and gives everyone plenty of time to play!

Q: What colors work best for a pool party theme?
A: Shades of blue and aqua match the water beautifully, while pops of sunny yellow, coral, lime green, or hot pink create a tropical vibe. Red, white, and blue suit nautical or patriotic themes, and pastel colors give a softer, beachy feel.

Q: How can I decorate my venue to create a fun pool party atmosphere?
A: Use colorful banners, beach balls, and inflatables for playful vibes. Add themed tableware, bright tablecloths, and a tropical photo backdrop for extra fun!

Q: How long should a kids' pool party last?
A: For younger kids, 2 to 2.5 hours is usually perfect. Older kids can enjoy up to 3 hours of fun, but longer than that can lead to tiredness and dwindling energy.

Q: How many adults should supervise the pool?
A: A good rule of thumb is at least one designated “water watcher” for every 3-5 young children. They should stay focused solely on supervision—no phones or distractions!

Q: What if someone can't swim very well?
A: Always have floatation devices like life vests and arm floaties available. And make sure a grown-up is supervising less confident swimmers at all times. A designated “water watcher” is a great idea!

Q: How can I keep kids entertained during the party?
A: Besides swimming, organize pool games like relay races, water balloon tosses, or treasure hunts with dive toys. Out of the pool, crafts like decorating beach visors keep kids happy and engaged.

Q: Should I provide towels?
A: It’s best to ask guests to bring their own towels on the invitation. Still, keeping a few extras on hand for forgetful guests is a thoughtful touch!

Q: What should I do if it rains?
A: Oh no! If rain threatens your pool party, have a backup plan ready! You can move the fun indoors with activities like crafts, board games, or a movie marathon. If your guests are flexible, consider rescheduling to the next sunny day—or even transforming the party into an indoor beach-themed bash with tropical décor, music, and games. Be sure to communicate any changes with guests ahead of time.

Q: Do I need music?
A: Absolutely! Music sets the mood and keeps the energy up. Make a playlist of summer hits and kid-friendly songs to keep everyone smiling.

Q: Should I have party favors?
A: It’s totally up to you! Fun and functional favors like water splash-themed notepads, colorful pens, stickers, or mini beach toys are perfect take-home treats. Bonus points if they match your party theme!

Q: What age is best for a pool party?
A: Pool parties work great for kids ages 5 and up, when most children feel comfortable in the water. For younger children, keep the party shorter and ensure extra close supervision.

Q: Should I hire a lifeguard?
A: If you’re expecting a larger group or feel unsure about water safety, hiring a certified lifeguard can give you extra peace of mind and ensure everyone is safe while having fun.

Q: How can I keep food safe outside in the heat?
A: Serve perishable foods like deli sandwiches, dairy-based dips, and salads indoors where it’s cooler to prevent spoilage. For outdoor snacks, stick to items that don’t spoil quickly such as chips, pretzels, popcorn, crackers, and fresh whole fruits like bananas or apples. If you want to offer perishable items outside, keep them chilled in coolers with plenty of ice packs and monitor them throughout the party to ensure they stay cold. This way, you can have a fun spread outdoors without worrying about food safety.

Q: How early should I send invitations?
A: About 3-4 weeks in advance is ideal, especially during summer when families tend to have busy schedules and vacations planned.

Ready to make some waves? 

With these tips, your kids’ pool party is sure to be the highlight of summer. Grab your sunscreen, crank up the music, and dive into some fun!

Pair these creative decorations, tasty treats, and fun activities with the gorgeous invitation suite, and you’ve got a birthday party your child—and their friends—will talk about all summer long. Let the splashing begin!

You can also check out our Kids Birthday Invitation Collection for even more fun designs and inspiration to make every party extra special!

We’d love to hear from you!

Have a favorite pool party tip or fun idea that we didn’t mention? Share your suggestions in the comments below — your advice could help other parents plan their own splash-tastic summer celebration.

Don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter for more themed party ideas, new designs, and seasonal inspiration!

Looking for other summer party ideas? Check out our tropical party inspiration!