August is the perfect month for soaking up sunshine, making memories, and, yes, throwing unforgettable parties! From ice cream sandwiches to s'mores, there are so many fun national days in August that practically beg for a celebration.

Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ, planning a kid-friendly party, or just looking for an excuse to eat waffles for dinner (no judgment here!), these August party ideas will keep everyone smiling.

Here are the best August party themes your guests will love.

Fun August Party Themes

National Ice Cream Sandwich Day (August 2nd)

Nothing screams summer quite like a delicious ice cream sandwich. On August 2nd, National Ice Cream Sandwich Day, it's the perfect opportunity to celebrate sweet treat.

Cool down with a DIY Ice Cream Sandwich Bar! Set up a spread of cookies (chocolate chip, sugar, brownie), ice cream flavors, and toppings like sprinkles, crushed Oreos, and caramel drizzle.

Fun Extra: Set up a “decorate your wrapper” station where kids can color custom sleeves for their sandwiches.

The possibilities are endless and everyone will be able to find their perfect match. And don't forget about the toppings! A DIY sundae bar is a must-have to take your ice cream sandwich creations to the next level. So gather your friends and family and get ready to celebrate National Ice Cream Sandwich Day in style.

Not an ice cream fan? Check out our Summer Popsicle ideas for more cool treats!

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National Watermelon Day (August 3rd)

Celebrate summer’s juiciest fruit with a Watermelon-Themed Party. Think watermelon cupcakes, watermelon-patterned tablecloths, and even a carved watermelon centerpiece!

Game Idea: Watermelon Chopstick Challenge! Float watermelon slices in a bowl and have guests try picking them up with chopsticks, winner gets a prize!

DIY Watermelon Bar: Set up a drink station where guests can make their own watermelon slushies or mocktails.

Don't forget to offer plenty of fresh watermelon slices as well, perfect for snacking on during those hot days. 

Watermelon Party BundleWatermelon Party Supplies

Keep the watermelon fun going with this tasty and refreshing watermelon salad with added feta cheese topped with balsamic vinegar dressing.

Watermelon Feta Salad

National S’mores Day (August 10th)

There is nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a warm, melty s'more on a summer evening. Lucky for us, National S'mores Day is just around the corner! Whether you're hosting a backyard gathering or camping with friends, a s'mores bar is the perfect addition to any summer soirée.

Set up your s'mores bar with graham crackers, chocolate bars, marshmallows, and fun add-ons like peanut butter cups, white chocolate, or caramel

Portable Bonfire with 112 Piece S'Mores KitTabletop Indoor Electric S'mores Maker

And of course, don't forget the essential skewers for roasting those marshmallows to perfection! Get ready to indulge in some serious sweetness and enjoy the ultimate summer treat.

Bonus Tip: If it's rainy, take the party inside with an Indoor Camping Game Night and make air fryer s'mores!

National Waffle Day (August 24th)

Who says waffles are only for breakfast? Get ready to celebrate National Waffle Day in style with a breakfast-for-dinner party that will have your taste buds dancing. 

Throw a Waffles & Pajamas Party – breakfast for dinner style! Offer mini Belgian waffles, blueberry waffles, and chocolate chip ones with all the toppings: whipped cream, maple syrup, berries, and Nutella.

Drink Ideas: Serve OJ, fancy teas, or make it special for grown-ups with mimosas.

Mini Maker for Individual WafflesMini Heart Waffle MakerMini Maker for Individual Waffles

Try these cute pink waffle pops for a sweet addition to your waffle party.

National Dog Day (August 26th)

August 26th is National Dog Day. Time to celebrate your fur babies with a Dog Party! Invite other pet parents and their pups for a day of treats, games, and wagging tails.

Activities:

• Doggy pool play

• Agility obstacle course

• Best dressed pup contest

A game of fetch, an agility course, or even a doggy pool will keep tails wagging all afternoon. And while the dogs enjoy themselves, their humans can mingle over tasty party treats.

You can also have a dog adoption event in partnership with a local animal shelter to celebrate the day.

So get ready to give some extra love to your furry family members this National Dog Day!

Back-to-School Party

Ease those end-of-summer blues with a Back-to-School Party. Think school-themed snacks (like apple cookies and pretzel pencils), chalkboard signs, and a mini photo booth with first-day signs.

Back to School Party SuppliesBack to School Party Decorations

 And what's a party without some fun activities? Hosting a scavenger hunt or trivia game is a great way to keep the excitement going long after the party is over.

So, parents, gather your school supplies, put on your thinking caps, and throw a back-to-school party for your little ones!

Printable August Trivia

How about a fun round of trivia with all 12 questions relating to the month of August. 

More August Party Ideas

• Friendship Day (First Sunday of August): Host a simple picnic or brunch with your besties.

• National Relaxation Day (August 15): Set up a mini spa day with face masks, chilled drinks, and soft music.

• End of Summer Party: Pool party, BBQ, water balloons, and popsicles, need we say more?

August Party Planning Tips

• Theme First: Choose a theme that excites you and your guests. The more specific, the more fun!

• Keep it Simple: A few key decorations go a long way, no need to go overboard.

• Make it Kid-Friendly: Add activities like trivia, coloring stations, or printable bingo games to keep little ones happy.

• Party Printables: Use themed printables for invites, banners, or games. (Psst… check out our Printable Summer Party games!)

So go ahead, grab your calendar, pick a date, and celebrate the sunshine with a party (or three)! August is bursting with reasons to smile, laugh, and make memories.

 Host a festive watermelon party, a cozy s'mores night, an Olympic-themed bash, or a back-to-school celebration there's something for every occasion. Get creative and put together an August party your guests will never forget.