If you’re getting ready to head back to school, summer may be winding down for you. But keep in mind that there’s still another month (or more) of official summertime. And that’s plenty of time to plan a lovely end of summer party! Consider a color palette of yellow and white stripes punctuated by bright fruity tones. Serve foods that celebrate the season’s delicious bounty, from watermelon to tomatoes. Offer a tropical drink or two. And of course, send guests home with a little something tasty to enjoy at a later time!

Today we take a look at the design recipe for a delicious end of summer fete. This event is all about creating a relaxed vibe and soaking up the last drops of the season. Make it easy and fun. The fall will bring enough stress–this is the time to chill out and celebrate with friends. Check out the images below and let them inspire you to host a gathering of your own. Don’t forget to share your own end of summer party ideas at the end of the post!

The Decor

Let’s start with the decor… Why not try a backdrop of yellow and white stripes, as envisioned by A Subtle Revery. Evoking the elegance of an upscale cabana tent, this combo is also breezy and casual. In the image below, we see table runners created by striped fabric. That same fabric is cut into strips and knotted to a rope to create a garland:

Peaches are one of the ultimate juicy summer fruits! In lieu of floral arrangements, why not place a few bowls of peaches at strategic party hot spots, such as the buffet table or the dining table (as shown above)? Another option: a bowl of limes. The vivid green shade will pop against the yellow and white stripes that anchor your party space. [from Daisy Cooks (Sometimes)]

And what would a summer party be without string lights? Believe it or not, these can be quite affordable. There’s nothing like the glow of round bulbs overhead! Choose lights with green wiring, or go with a white approach with these Clear Globe String Lights from Party City. [from Alamy via DailyFinance]

The Drinks

Moving on to the drinks… Now is the chance to enjoy one last burst or tropical cocktails! This sugar and spiced pineapple rum punch from Julip Made features a rim of salt, sugar and spice. Yum! [from Julip Made]

Make sure you offer guests a nonalcoholic option as well. Partygoers who aren’t consuming liquor will appreciate the chance to sip something special. As mentioned on Brenda’s Wedding Blog, one option involves purchasing hibiscus syrup, which comes with edible flowers. Use the syrup to make a delicious hibiscus tea, then take those gorgeous flowers and use them as a champagne embellishment for those who want to enjoy some bubbly! [from Country Living via Brenda’s Wedding Blog]

The Food

From drinks to food… Now is not the time to skimp on fruit. Enjoy the delicious seasonal produce at your disposal, including watermelon. The summer goodies below can become part of your decor, adding a rosy tone to your party palette. For this “End of Summer” party by One Sweet Party, we see watermelon bites topped with fluff cream cheese and mint, as well as delicious melon skewers…

You can’t go wrong with individual portions. Glasses of bow tie pasta with basil and fresh tomato make the perfect refreshing end of summer party food. Include other bite-sized goodies on your party table and let guests nosh happily! [from SheKnows.com]

One easy way to add a summery touch to your dessert is to purchase drink umbrellas use them to embellish cupcakes and other goodies. In case you’re curious, the beach-themed cupcakes below are based on this recipe from Martha Stewart. [from The Bubbly Hostess]

The Favors

While it’s certainly not required, some party hosts enjoy sending guests home with a little token of appreciation. A “thanks for coming,” if you will. Since we’re going with a fruity theme for this party, why not gift guests with delicious peach jam or preserves. If you’re feeling really adventurous, you can even make it yourself! [from Grey Likes Weddings]

It’s hard to go wrong with foodie gifts. Who doesn’t love a delicious consumable? This rosemary-infused olive oil was a handmade wedding favor, but we think it would make the perfect end of summer party favor. Guests can enjoy dipping fresh bread into this delicious oil at a later time, and when they do, they’ll remember your party fondly. [from Teacher by Day Chef by Night]

We’re curious about your end of party summer ideas! We’d love to hear about your creative take on this festive seasonal gathering. Share your thoughts by leaving a comment below…