23 Crazy Summer Party Essentials You Didn’t Know You Needed

Now that you’ve picked out your summer party theme and gotten all the supplies for those wine slushies, you need to make sure your get-together is one your friends won’t forget. To help you throw an #epic and memorable summer party, we’ve rounded up our top picks of crazy summer party essentials. From wacky fast food-inspired beach gear to cheeky little drink markers, this list has got it all, and then some. Keep scrolling to find the unique summer essentials your party needs below.

1. Urban Outfitters Hot Dog Joust Pool Game ($35): Made of heavy-duty vinyl, these inflatable hot dog jousting props won’t let you down when the competition gets intense. No matter how many whacks you receive or give, you can rest assured your hot dog rafts and boppers’ durability won’t disappoint.

2. Urban Outfitters Instant Water Balloon Filler Pack ($16, Pack of 3): These self-sealing water balloon fillers are just the party essentials you need on a hot summer day. If anyone protests when they get hit by one of these bad boys, you can just say that you were trying to help them stay cool.

3. Target Itza Floaty Pong ($19): Upgrade the classic beer game into a summertime favorite with this floaty pong set. The conveniently interlocking pieces make them ideal for both backyard and pool activities.

4. BigMouth Inc Gigantic 12-Feet Beach Ball ($140): Once you introduce this gigantic beach ball to your party, there’s no telling what kind of shenanigans you and your friends will get into. Play a game of monkey in the middle or soccer, or simply pass it back and forth (or at least try to) with your friends.

5. Mahina Mermaid MerFun Mermaid Flipper ($100): This eco-friendly pair of mermaid fin flippers are made from recycled rubber and will make you feel like you’re one with the fishes next time you go for a dive. Flexible and functional, they’ll propel you through the waves for an all-out fun day in the water.

6. Oddity Mall Giant Iceberg Inflatable Climbing Wall ($6,768): Nothing’s impossible! That includes climbing a giant (inflatable) iceberg in the middle of summer. Not gonna lie, this one’s on the pricier side, so you might want to split the cost with some friends.

7. Topshop Flamingo Ice Stirrers ($12): You can spruce up your drinks *and* your party decor with these flamingo ice stirrers. Super easy to clean and reuse, they’ll soon be a staple at all your summer cocktail parties.

8. Coleman Lay-Z Spa Inflatable Hot Tub ($420): If you thought hot tubs couldn’t get any better, check out this inflatable one. Decked out with crazy options like massage settings, a rapid heating system and integrated water filtration, this instant hot tub is a must-have for all your summer parties.

9. Icycl Vodka Ice Pops ($19): This party popsicle is like a fruit sorbet and boozy slushie all mixed into one. It’s infused with vodka and will give just the right amount of kick to get everyone in the party mood.

10. Urban Outfitters Flamingo Drink Holder Pool Set ($12): High on the list of summer party priorities is figuring out where to put your drink when you’re in the pool. Rather than getting in and out of the water, opt for these practical, adorable and ingenious mini floats designed to hold your cup.

11. Stupid.com Pizza Towel ($12): Why settle for a plain towel when you can look this fab (and cheesy) in a pizza-printed beauty? The 100% cotton towel promises to keep you dry and warm while looking just as hot as a pizza does. YUM!

12. JammyPack Whatever USA Fanny Pack ($49): Whether you take it to the beach or on your hike, this conveniently portable speaker has storage and a whole lotta style. It’ll play all your favorite tunes wherever you go.

13. Ban.do Rainbow Unicorn Float ($99): Get in touch with the magic of summer with a whimsical rainbow unicorn float. Once you’re lounging away on it, you’ll realize that *dreams really do come true.*

14. Sunnylife Ice Cream Popsicle Moulds ($15, Set of 4): Use this soft serve mold to turn virtually anything into a yummy frozen treat. Pro tip: Chop up fruits to add to your juice mixture for a tasty and textured snack.

15. Topshop Sombrero Shot Glasses ($18): These fun sombrero shot glasses are perfect for Taco Tuesdays or any kind of summer fiesta. Now all you need is a splash of tequila to really kick things off…

16. Firebox VW Camper Van Tent ($432): Pitch this quirky VW-inspired tent at your summer party for instant shade and protection from bugs. Featuring zip-separated rooms that can fit a total of four adults, this surprisingly spacious tent won’t let you down at your party or on your next camping trip.

17. Firebox Shake ‘n’ Make Ice Cream Maker ($23): In just three minutes, you can whip up your own homemade ice cream by simply shaking your ice cream maker. Pour in salt, ice and your unique ice cream mixture, and then shake, shake, shake!

18. Uncommon Goods DIY Smartphone Projector ($32): Display your videos, photos or texts on the wall or a hanging sheet outside with this smartphone projector. You don’t even need to connect this baby to a power source. Simply slide the back compartment and let the glass lens focus the image. Once you’ve got the hang of it, pop a couple bags of popcorn, sit back and enjoy the show with your friends.

19. Topshop Drinking Buddies Drink Markers ($18): Once your friends take a look at these cheeky beach *bums,* they’re sure to love ’em. Not to mention, the markers will help them keep tabs on which drink is theirs.

20. Tangeez LED Mini Stack ($35): Both creative and practical, these individually illuminated stacking blocks will keep your party lit all night long. What’s even cooler is that they change color when you stack them. Say what?

21. Kikkerland Luchador Bottle Openers ($8): Sometimes it really does feel like you’re wrestling to open a bottle. Now you won’t have to worry with these hilarious luchador-inspired bottle openers. They also make great party favors!

22. Stupid.com Sunglasses Chip Clip ($9, Set of 4): These stylish sunglasses chip clips are essential for your backyard party. Not only will they look cool, they will help fight off that stale chip situation.

23. Grand Innovations DBA Snake Eyes Yard Dice ($50): Test your luck by tossing these large wooden dice outside to see if your prediction turns out to be right. Otherwise, play any one of the four dice games whose rules are included with the purchase of the giant die.

Which of these crazy party essentials will you rock at your summer bash? Follow us on Pinterest for more fun ideas for summer!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Farmer's market season is swiftly approaching, and though you wanna reach for just about everything out on stands (us, too), there's a special select group of produce in season right now! Shopping produce that's in season ensures you're getting fruits and vegetables at their highest quality in terms of texture, flavor, and shelf life.

This is the produce in season for May! We've also listed some amazing recipe ideas to use up each produce pick.

*Make sure to save this list for your next grocery trip or farmer's market adventure!*

Photo by Karolina Grabowska / PEXELS

Strawberries

Strawberries are one of the yummiest produce in season for May, since they can taste like literal candy when ripe. They're just a classic when it comes to spring fruits!

What to make:

Photo by Kulbir / PEXELS

Rhubarb

Rhubarb is a stalk vegetable that blooms beautifully in spring. It's commonly used in pies, but you could also make some boozy cocktails with rhubarb! Here are a few ideas to get you started.

What to make:

Photo by Timur Weber / PEXELS

Mango

Mango is oh-so tropical, lending a blissful vacation vibe to any recipe. From drinks to snacks, you can count on mango to be super juicy this season. Try one of our recipes!

What to make:

Photo by Any Lane / PEXELS

Kiwi

Kiwis pack a nutritious punch, supplying more than twice your recommended daily amount of vitamin C. We adore that they're an immune-boosting fruit and can taste like candy when eaten at peak ripeness!

What to make:

Photo by Aleksandar Pasaric / PEXELS

Pineapple

We could honestly eat an entire pineapple by ourselves. It's that yummy! Pineapple is equally yummy in savory dishes as it is in sweet ones, and we have plenty of recipe ideas to explore with this produce in season.

What to make:

Photo by Eva Bronzini / PEXELS

Beets

Beets are famous for being rich in antioxidants, which is helpful especially if you're trying to eat an anti-inflammatory diet. Try one of these recipe ideas for a nutritious boost!

What to make:

Photo by Karolina Grabowska / PEXELS

Citrus

Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, limes, and lemons thrive this time of year! Use 'em to make juice, mix 'em into sauces and dips, or make them the star of your recipes and cocktails!

What to make:

Photo by Ready Made / PEXELS

Avocado

Avocado can be used in recipes way beyond your regular avocado toast. Take advantage of this produce in season this May by making spreads, dips, sauces, and more with this green fruit!

What to make:

Photo by Polina Tankilevitch / PEXELS

Broccoli

Good ol' broc is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, and you don't have to eat it plain if you don't want to! Broccoli makes an excellent side dish for pastas and casseroles, plus it gets pretty yum when you roast it in the oven.

What to make:

Photo by This Is Zun / PEXELS

Carrots

Carrots, whether you eat them crunchy or cooked down, are the perfect spring veggie. You may know carrots for being able to benefit your vision, but they also can lower cholesterol levels and even help prevent cancer! Sneaking carrots into soups or salads is an easy way to make use of the seasonal veg.

What to make:

Photo by Yaroslav Shuraev / PEXELS

Spinach + Arugula

We all loathed spinach as kids, but it's gained some real appeal since we've grown up! Spinach is another easy produce in season that you can sneak into recipes like smoothies and pasta sauces. We can't forget a classic spinach dip, either! Arugula is also in season for May, so get ready to make some delish salads, too.

What to make:

Photo by RDNE Stock Project / PEXELS

Artichokes

Fresh artichokes are a blast to cook with if you've never tried it! They'll be super fresh and tasty when you pick them up from your local market. If you're wondering what to do with this piece of produce, we've got a few ideas...

What to make:

Photo by R Khalil / PEXELS

Peas

Peas are such an underrated vegetable, in our opinion. They're great when eaten alone, but they also help bulk up soups, pastas, and more. You could even make a delish risotto with some peas!

What to make:

Photo by Mali Maeder / PEXELS

Radishes

Radishes aren't particularly tasty on their own, but they make excellent garnishes for salads, sandwiches, and even tacos. They pack a healthy punch with vitamin C and calcium!

What to make:

Photo by Mali Maeder / PEXELS

Asparagus

This stalky veggie used to yuck us out as kids, but now, it's super delish when we roast it in the oven or grill it with some fish.

What to make:

Photo by Karolina Grabowska / PEXELS

Cauliflower

Broccoli's cousin, cauliflower, is so versatile. Make some cauli wings or cauli rice to sneak in some good veg.

What to make:

Photo by Karolina Grabowska / PEXELS

Green Onion

Green onion can bring flavor to any dish, plus it makes an excellent garnish.

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on Pinterest for more fresh recipe ideas!

Lead photo by Vanessa Loring / PEXELS.

This post has been updated.

I spent an unhealthy amount of time thinking about love and relationships when I was younger, so I'm surprised I hadn't heard of the invisible string theory. You'd think someone who's familiar with imaginationships, red flags, and long-term relationships would, right? But this viral Tiktok theory took me — and the internet — by storm recently.

Since I was intrigued, I sought out some expert advice to really get to the bottom of what this lovely little social media notion was, and if it actually has some merit to it. With the help of Courtney Morgan, Licensed Therapist (LPCC) and founder of Counseling Unconditionally, I'm here to help you understand WTF the invisible string theory is and whether it's something that can apply to your life.

P.S. This one's for my lover women who can't get enough of the enemies-to-lovers trope often found in their fave romance books. 😘

Why are love theories so popular on social media?

Image via Pexels User/Pexels

Fromloud budgeting to the lucky girl syndrome, it's not unsurprising that I discovered the invisible string theory on TikTok. It turns out I'm not the only who loves hearing about how other people met the person they're dating or married to. Morgan says, "I believe that love theories are popular on social media because they bring up positive feelings, are relatable, and fun to consider. Even if they’re a little wacky or far out there, it can be entertaining to consider the possibility that they may be true and explore how they relate to your situation."

That's probably why I found myself creating a few imaginationships in my late teens, but we won't dive into that.

So, what is the invisible string theory?

Image via Photo by Juliano Astc/Pexels

Since the only string that comes to mind when I think about this is string cheese, I asked Morgan if she could fully explain this theory. "The ‘invisible string theory’ is a viral phenomenon that essentially alludes to the fact that we are connected to a person so innately that the bond cannot be broken, and that we would find this person in any lifetime," she says.

Now that I have a better understanding of this, I liken this theory to finding "the one," but more on that soon!

Should I expect to find the invisible string theory hard at work in my life?

Image via Angelina Orlova/Dupe Photos

I'll be honest — I asked this question for you, but I kind of want to know if there's actual merit to it for research purposes 👀. I know it's fun to think everyone will have the same experience, but that's not always the case.

"I don’t think that everyone will experience this phenomenon for themselves, and I also don’t think it should be a goal that we set out to accomplish, as feelings and interpretations can be so mixed and ambiguous. I am hopeful that a person seeking this connection will find a person or persons that make them feel secure and connected, even if their relationship doesn’t perfectly follow the invisible string theory," says Morgan.

Okay, noted.

Will the invisible string theory help someone attract "the one?"

Image via Elizabeth Pishal/Dupe Photos

Remember what I said about my not-so-secret former obsession with finding "the one?" Well, Morgan has thoughts about how that could connect to the invisible string theory. She says, "I believe that when people set out looking for something, they will find it. This doesn’t always mean that it works out and that it is meant to be this way, but believing that there is a person out there for you creates hope."

She also says, "A person that has this hope is a lot more likely to put themselves in situations to meet “the one”, whether that is striking up conversation with an attractive stranger, trying to get out of the friend zone, or accepting an invitation on a first date."

I'm just going to drag my younger self by saying that I entertained more guys than I probably should've on my journey to find true love. Thank goodness for growth and maturity!

Does the invisible string theory only apply to romantic relationships?

Image via Adrienn/Pexels

It feels like society has started to change how it takes about relationships by realizing that not all of the important ones are strictly romantic. There are familial and work ties along side our many friendships have nothing to do with romance, but they're important nonetheless.

"People will reference the invisible string theory in a variety of relationships. Some of the relationships are romantic, but others may experience this feeling with their close friends, a really amazing mentor, or another person that has significant positive impact on their lives," says Morgan.

All jokes aside, should I expect for this theory to be perfect?

Image via Alena Shekhovtcova/Pexels

Eh, define 'perfect.' Seriously, we like to throw the word 'perfect' around, but nothing ever really measures up to that — especially when it comes to matters of the heart.

"A person should not expect to experience the invisible string theory exactly as it is described. Rarely do things work out exactly as planned, and the invisible string theory is not an exception. The invisible string theory is fun to consider, and believing in the theory can be valuable if it inspires you to put yourself out there," concludes Morgan.

Long story short, no one can tell you not to believe in the invisible string theory. All I or a licensed therapist like Morgan can do is help answer your heart's burning questions while (hopefully) guiding you towards making an informed decision.

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Lead image via Vlada Karpovich/Pexels

As a self-confessed fashion girlie, I have to say that I always like to feel good about my outfit from head to toe — even when I'm casually bumming it at the beach on vacation. Beach style is so unique with all its lovely straw and linen looks, so when I'm prepping for a day out in the sun like that, I especially love to have a fun — and practical — beach tote bag to feel prepared and put together. And while I'd love to have a designer special for every setting, finding these chic, beachy options on a budget always makes the look even sweeter. So I rounded up 9 beach bags that are fashion-forward, but still affordable so you don't have to panic when they get all sandy! Keep reading to see all of our chic cool-girl approved picks!

Shop Beach Tote Bags Here!

Gap X Love Shack Fancy Tote Bag

Love Shack Fancy is one of those brands that is absolutely killing the game at the moment. Everything they release is so on-brand and fun and this adorable tote bag is definitely just that! It's floral and fun and totally adorable! We love this affordable collab and think you should definitely grab it while it's still on sale!

BDG Urban Outfitters Mini Tote

A mini tote is perfect for all you ladies that only need the essentials: sunscreen, lip balm, and a book or two. This bag fits just enough items and it's great that you don't have to lug around a huge bag. At $39, this bag is a steal and so cute!

Damson Madder Bon Appetite Bag

Damson Madder is another brand that has such a unique style that is so recognizable when you see it. This bag just encapsulates them as a brand and is the perfect beach bag. It can fit lunch (which is perfect since its print is food and the name is "Bon Appetite") and any other essential you'll need for the beach. Obsessed with this one!

LL Bean Boat Tote

The OG tote bag that is very on-trend recently because you honestly just can't beat a classic! I love the idea of monogramming this sweet bag with your initials or a cute phrase. This beach tote will never go out of style!

Staud Raffia Moon Bag

This one is more expensive than our previous, but I wanted to include it in case you're going straight from the beach to lunch or dinner. The shape is very on-trend at the moment and it's the perfect day-to-night bag! It looks so high-fashion and luxe with its simple yet unique shape.

Ganni Denim Tote

You can't do beach totes without including this iconic Ganni bag that's everywhere at the moment. I see so many pictures of this when I scroll on Pinterest. This one will definitely make you look like a cool-girl influencer that you see all over IG.

Aloha Splash Proof Sun Bag

This splash-proof bag is not only adorable, but also practical as well. It's simple yet fun — and is also super affordable at under $70! The perfect beach bag that will fit anything you need!

Carhartt Fruit Tote Bag

I'm loving printed bags at the moment, so here's another one to add to the list. Carhartt has been releasing so many good items and this is one that's currently on my wishlist! Whether you need it for the beach, the gym, or school — it will definitely work in a ton of different scenarios all-the-while looking extra cute!

Djerf Avenue Tote Bag

Djerf Avenue has been one of my favorite brands for years and this tote bag will really carry absolutely anything you need! It's massive and extremely durable plus the print is so cute! With this bag, you'll look like a Scandi-girl angel!

Looking for more awesome pick? Sign up for our shopping newsletter, and be sure to check out our Amazon storefront for more editor-approved products!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Lead image via Urban Outfitters.