12 Outdoor Party Themes

Plan a Mad Men-inspired soiree, a faux pool party, and more with these inventive ideas for backyard bash menus.

Faux pool party

Pull up a chair by the pool and enjoy some refreshing, fruity sippers alongside some grilled bites and a sweet-spicy fruit platter.
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Mad Men party

Stock up on the martini and highball glasses and serve plenty of finger food with the booze-you don't want too much scandal! Put on your curve-hugging knits or that skinny tie and flirt like it's 1963.
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Graduation party

Celebrate the big day with crowd-pleasers: mini steak tortas, classic guacamole, cheesy stuffed peppers and, of course, some big, bold drinks for toasting the grad.
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Downton Abbey party

Borrow some tips from the gorgeous PBS series and put out your best serving pieces for this classy do. Maybe even pass around a few of the appetizers, in grand manor style.
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Izakaya party

Japan's answer to tapas-a spread of savory morsels you can't seem to stop eating. Hang up some paper lanterns to set the mood, and bring on the sake, the Kirin lager, and the shochu.
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Diner-style party

When you're thinking comfort food, but not the same-old same-old, here's how to wow your guests.
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Sopranos party

Think big, bold flavors, rich tomato accents, dirty martinis, and lots of red wine to finish it off.
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Breakfast for dinner party

Get your eggs, sweets, and toast in appetizer style, and enjoy some twists on our favorite breakfast cocktails, the mimosa and the Bloody Mary.
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Bollywood party

Queue up Bride and Prejudice and try out your dance moves for this celebration of Indian flavors.
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Vegan party

Here's what to serve when your eco-conscious pals show up to party.
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Prohibition Era party

Slip on a flighty little cocktail dress and some wine-dark lipstick, put on some jazz, and invite your friends over to your very own speakeasy.
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Chocolate lovers' mini-desserts party

Okay, so it's a little decadent. But hey, you can always skip dinner, right?
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Related:
> 17 ideas for a no-fuss summer party
> Outdoor party menus
> Outdoor decorating ideas