Have Fun in the Sun With These Bridal Shower Themes for Summer

Splish splash, it's time for a bridal bash.
Mom and daughter holding hands at bridal shower
Photo: LA76 Photography
Ariel Taranski
by
Ariel Taranski
Ariel Taranski
Ariel Taranski
The Knot Contributor
  • Ariel writes on a variety of wedding-related topics for The Knot.
  • She has previously worked for Southern Bride Magazine, Miss Design Berry and other woman-owned wedding brands.
  • She received her Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Memphis.
Updated Feb 06, 2024

Though you likely won't be hosting your own bridal shower, your loved one might still come to you for some ideas. And we've gathered some of your favorite bridal shower themes for summer that bring the fun. From classic themes to modern takes, these summer bridal showers are the perfect pre-wedding celebration. And since summer offers more sunshine, you can even take a dip in the pool or throw your party outdoors. So grab your bridal shower checklist and scroll through for the best party inspo to celebrate your upcoming nuptials.

Pool Party

Nothing beats a classic pool party to cool off in that summer heat. Make it even more special by serving water-themed foods like gummy rings and fish tacos.

Picnic in the Park

Tell your guests to grab their picnic basket and meet at your local park. See if it's dog-friendly so even your furry friends can join.

Garden Tea Party

Keep it classic with a garden tea party, complete with tea cakes and stylish gloves. You can even add an Alice in Wonderland twist to this theme.

Tropical Paradise

Tropic like it's hot with a tropical-themed bridal shower. Relax under the palm trees, indulge in tropical bites and even have a hula hoop contest with your guests.

4th of July

It's all about the fireworks at this explosive shindig. Throw your bridal shower on (or around) Independence Day to enjoy a classic grill-out and some sparklers.

Beach Bash

Book a bungalow at your favorite beach or even an Airbnb on the sand. A bridal shower beach bash is the perfect opportunity to cool off in the sea and snack on some fresh seafood with your favorite people.

Hawaiian Luau

Make your own leis and sip on some Mai Tais with a Hawaiian-themed luau. You can even do a hula dance lesson and eat some classic Hawaiian dishes during this bash.

Summer Lovin'

There's a reason why Danny and Sandy sang about those summer days. Go full poodle skirt and greaser with this theme that takes it back to the nifty '50s.

Find all the vendors you need

Discover top-rated pros for any budget, background and style.

Night Under the Stars

Spend a night stargazing at all of the summer constellations and enjoying some time around the fire pit. Decorate your space with celestial-inspired decor and string lights for a truly magical feel.

Enchanted Fairytale

Step into your favorite book with a fairytale theme, complete with magical decor and costumes. From the fairy court to the dragon riders' academy, there are plenty of fantastical vibes to choose from.

Let's Play Mermaids

If you were the kid at the pool who said, "Let's play mermaids," then this theme is for you. Go all out with the under-the-sea decor, treats and outfits when you hop on this bridal shower trend.

Christmas in July

Turn your bridal shower into a winter wonderland, even in the scorching July heat. Decorate your space with snowflake cutouts, Christmas trees and lights to pair with your favorite Christmas cookies and bites. (Plus, your host can save on this theme by reusing classic holiday decor.)

Gilded Glamour

Match your new ring when you throw a golden party that even Harry Styles would be singing about. Have all of your guests wear their favorite gold outfits and dazzle them with gold drinks, decor and more.

Summer Nights Carnival

Have your very own summer carnival with games and classic foods, like candy apples and cotton candy. You can even buy little stuffed animals as prizes for your guests as they play their favorite carnival games.

"Mint" To Be

Cool off during your summer soiree with a minty theme. Serve mint treats (like mint chocolate chip ice cream) and decorate the space in a minty, relaxing green for one unforgettable party.

Summer Vacay

Want to take a trip to your favorite city? Then bring that destination to your party guests with a summer vacation theme. You can choose somewhere snowy, like the mountains, or even an international spot you've always wanted to visit.

Sunflower Extravaganza

Many flowers bloom in summer, like the sun-shaped blossom–the sunflower. Incorporate fresh sunflowers throughout your decor, and use brown and yellow to brighten up your bridal shower venue.

Siesta Fiesta

This is a fun spin on a "slumber party" that asks your guests to come dressed in their comfiest PJs and get ready to enjoy classic Mexican eats. Have a taco bar and Margarita station while playing classic sleepover games like M.A.S.H.

Days of Summers' Past

Throw it back to your favorite summer with a vintage bridal shower theme. Reminisce on the 90s or keep it groovy, baby, in the 70s. The options are limitless with this fun theme.

Summer Camp

Play summer camp for a day with your bridal shower guests with some arts and crafts, camp food classics and games. You can even finish the night around the campfire with some hot dogs and s'mores.

Field Day

It's time to put your families to the test with a good old-fashioned field day. Participate in potato sack races, tug of war and more with this day of friendly competition.

Totally Nautical

Ahoy, mateys. It's time to get nauti with a sea-inspired bridal shower. Incorporate nautical elements like anchors, ropes and even tiny ships in a bottle.

Citrusy Sweet Party

Summer is citrus season, so go all out with this sweet theme. Have a lemonade or limeade bar and serve citrusy treats like orange cinnamon rolls or grapefruit bars.

Up Next
  • Healthy breakfast buffet spread for a bridal shower.
    26 Bridal Shower Food Ideas, From Classic to Creative