Even on a budget, there are a wealth ofways to hostan awesome outdoor partywithout breaking the bank.

Ice Cream Social

This summer birthday party idea is all about the season’s sweetest treat!

An ice cream sundae bar is a tasty and creative way to celebrate another year around the sun.

paper marbling party snacks table

Credit: Buff Strickland

Set up different game stations around the yard so no one gets stuck waiting for a turn.

Since this theme is casual, you’re able to keep the decor to a minimum.

A cooler of drinks and a simple snack bar are all you need!

no-churn ice cream varieties and scoop

Credit: Carson Downing

Try summer birthday party ideas that allow guests to be creative, like flavors and cupcake design.

Make it easy and less messy by setting out pre-frosted cupcakes and bowls of colorful candy toppings.

For an adult-oriented celebration, set up watercolor painting stations and glasses of winerose is perfect for summer.

Painted ring toss yard game on lawn

Credit: Chelsea Foy of Lovely Indeed

Post up on the porch and have plenty of seasonal finger foods at the ready.

Mimosa Party

If schedules only allow for a morning celebration, host amimosaparty.

Invite friends and family to your backyard for a casual birthday celebration over breakfast and the classic cocktail.

Cupcake party

Credit: Andy Lyons

This party idea is geared toward adults but can easily be kid-friendly sans alcohol.

Birthday Bagel Brunch

Skip the late-night party and throw a leisurely birthday bagel brunch.

Cut veggies and cheese into fun shapes using cookie cutters to make the occasion fun for kids.

outdoor movie party with projector

Credit: Rebekah Molloy

And don’t forget the coffee and juice.

Set up a toaster or toaster oven so guests can enjoy their bagels warm and crispy.

Activities can be rainbow-themed, too.

close-up poolside mimosa cart

Credit: Adam Albright

Root Beer Float Fest

Looking for low-maintenance,budget-friendly summer party ideas?

Serve root beer floats in the backyard.

Pre-scoop vanilla ice cream into individual cups or muffin tins and freeze them in advance for a quick serve.

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Colorful glassware and bold paper flowers set the scene for this festive theme.

A spa celebration is easy to set up, and it doesn’t have to be an expensive endeavor.

Bonus points if you have a hot tub for soaking!

Parents Magazine girl dog rainbow

Credit: Ari Michelson

Put a spin on your water bash by incorporating an ocean theme.

Backyard Potluck

For a laid-back crowd, host a backyardpotluck party.

Put on a fun party playlist, serve food alfresco, and let the party begin!

root beer float wagon

Credit: Rebekah Molloy

Light tiki torches around your backyard to set the mood, and decorate with tropical touches.

Outback Shrimp Boil

This Southern-inspiredshrimp boilis the ultimate summer birthday party for foodies.

The main attraction is a spicy feast of shrimp, sausage, and corn.

Rhubarb Agua Fresca

Credit: Blaine Moats

Round out the party with DIY nautical decor andplenty of cold drinks.

Go all in on the seasonal theme with watermelon drinks, watermelon snacks, and watermelon decorations.

Keep dessert light and seasonal with fruit parfaits orsorbetinstead of the usual birthday cake.

spa party woman hand soak flower petals bowl

Credit: Rebekah Molloy

Summer Garden Party

Celebrate the beauty of summer with agarden party.

Implement citrus and floral flavors in the food and beverages to round out the theme.

Barbecue and Brews Bash

This summer birthday party idea is all about beer and barbecue!

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Credit: TwoTwentyPhotos.com

Fully embrace the summer spirit by offering a fews’mores dessertsrather than cake and ice cream.

Rose Soiree

Center your birthday around a favorite summer drinkrose!

Keep this party light and bright, just like the drink.

entertaining patio

Credit: David Tsay

Pair a few varieties of rose with your favoritecharcuteriestaples.

Sit back, sip, and enjoy the summer celebration.

For kids, serve pink lemonade and decorate with citrus-themed fruits for a “pink drink party.”

close-up make your own lei station plaque

Credit: Adam Albright

Serve rose well-chilled, around 4555F, to keep it refreshing throughout the festivities.

Gather friends and family for a backyard burger bash, putting your grill to good use.

Making juicy, flavorful burgers isn’t hard with a few of ourgrilling tips.

Bayou Boil

Credit: Rebekah Molloy

Be sure to let each attendee’s shirt sun dry completely before packing up the party favor.

Picnics are all about good food, good conversation, and good times outdoors.

Set up yard games to give guests activity options aside from making conversation.

watermelon party refreshments table

Credit: Marty Baldwin

Prepare an umbrella,portable tent, or find a shaded area to protect everyone from the sun.

overhead table view with two plates of eggs benedict

Credit: Carson Downing

completed concrete block bar with buffet of fruit lemonade and desserts

Credit: Cameron Sadeghpour

beer bucket

Credit: Ray Kachatorian

trail mix bar overhead view with hands

glass of sparkling rosé iced bottles crudites

Credit: Jason Donnelly

july burger party toppings spread

Credit: Annie Schlechter

girl with pink dye

Credit: Allison Cottrill

picnic with sandwiches, charcuterie, and pink plates

Credit: Carson Downing