Decor, food, and drink inspiration from the pool to the backyard.

Want to throw an al fresco party that’s seriously fun (and doesn’t feel like that same old backyard hang)? Layering on a theme is an easy way to produce an out-of-the-box bash. To make it less work for you, we’ve curated three parties—a backyard barbecue, poolside bash (with or without a pool), and sunset soiree—plus, everything you need to make your vibe of choice come to life. From festive Tropicana Premium Drinks to crowd-friendly nibbles to a movie under the stars, this is the inspiration you need to treat your friends (and, let’s be real, *you*) to the ultimate event of the season.

Say goodbye to boring burgers and hello to a stepped-up spread. For this anything-but-average barbecue, set up a grazing table stocked with creative apps like a cantaloupe, prosciutto, and blood orange charcuterie plate or a peach, mozzarella, and basil caprese salad. Serve one wow-worthy entree, too, like marinated flank steak or grilled whole lobster with a side of garlic-herb butter. No barbecue? No problem. Break out the cast-iron grill pan and grill on the stove (the grate marks are everything).

For the drinks, set out a punch bowl with ice, fresh citrus, and Tropicana Premium Peachy Pineapple Paradise—and don’t forget a stylish serving ladle. Go for utensils and dishware with a modern feel (no red plastic cups or flimsy plates here!). If you’re not wild about your ceramic dishes outdoors, snap up some eco-conscious disposable bamboo ones that don’t sacrifice style.

Add some flair to outdoor seating by draping gingham tablecloths over the tables and using fresh-cut flowers from the yard as centerpieces (the more thrown-together looking, the better). Or, think beyond the patio table and spread blankets and cushions in the yard for a cozier, more casual summer setup.

You don’t need an actual pool to throw a pool party. Set up an inflatable one stocked with pool toys and floaties, or turn on the sprinklers so your friends can flashback to third grade and run through it to cool down. And don’t let a lack of space deter you. Ultimately, it’s all about the vibe: sunglasses, a summery outfit, a fruity drink. What more could you need?

Lean into bright, sunshiny colors, with vibrant drinks like Tropicana Premium Pineapple Mango Splash and playful extras like cocktail umbrellas and beach balls. Opt for glassware and dishes that won’t get soggy with moisture, like glass or metal, and source reusable straws for easy poolside sipping. For bonus points, put together party favors for each of your guests stocked with SPF, flip flops, and a Turkish-style beach towel.

For the eats, think fancy resort poolside fare: tangy pineapple salsa with tortilla chips and mango slices sprinkled with tajín. You can also grill some sliders, assorted summer squash, and your favorite fruit (strawberries, peaches, and pineapples hold up well on the grill) for a sweet end note.

What’s a summer sunset soiree, you ask? Here’s the lowdown: You gather your friends at dusk on a warm evening to catch up and watch the sun go down. Set the mood with a streaming playlist featuring your favorite chill tunes (or give yacht rock or jazz a go) and decorate the yard with dreamy tiki torches, a fire pit, and lots of cozy areas for guests to lounge and look at the stars.

For the beverages, set out drinks like Tropicana Premium Caribbean Sunset in a pretty pitcher alongside bright acrylic glasses. Lean into a fruit- and veggie-rich menu, from a tomato and feta salad drizzled with balsamic to sliced watermelon or a mix of berries. For something a bit more filling, whip up a big batch of slow cooker pulled pork that guests can use to build their own sliders.

Want your soiree to keep going past sundown? Create your own outdoor movie theater: String up globe lights and hang a white sheet over a clothesline. Scatter cushions and blankets throughout the yard for intimate seating, then, once the sun sets, project a summer blockbuster onto the screen (aka sheet).