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1. A unicorn sprinkler so fun that both kids *and* adults will love running and playing in it.
Note: this is just the unicorn, it does not come with the rainbow inflatable, but if you want that too, grab it here!
Promising review: "Used this for my 29th birthday party. It was a hit. Sprinkled us with water all day while we floated around in the pool. Definitely not just for kiddos. Great for adults, too. I’m 5'10 and got the large, not the jumbo. Was still huge! Came with four yellow stakes to keep it from blowing away!" —Sarita Hillyita
Get it from Amazon for $33.99+ (available in two sizes).
2. Rapid-fill water balloons that'll eliminate the horribly painstaking task of individually filling (and tying 🤬) balloons for the balloon fight. "Yes kids, you can have a water balloon fight, just give me an hour to fill them up," is a sentence you'll never say again…this will give you hundreds of balloons in seconds!!
Promising review: "Perfect for my three boys. The balloons were easy to fill. They’re using one bunch at a time, gives them plenty to play with and the pack of balloons will provide multiple times of water balloon games." —bull75
Get 350 balloons from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in three color varieties and a 450 balloon pack).
3. Or some reusable water balloons made of eco-friendly material that are not only significantly better for the planet, but also WAY easier to fill!! No more fumbling around with those tiny little openings and trying to get it tied off before accidentally leaking out all the water. Win for the planet, win for you, and win for your kids who can now have water balloon fights every day!
Promising review: "The adults in this house love water balloons but not the mess…plus with toddlers around, it didn’t quite make sense to have water balloons but we saw a random video on TikTok and HAD to find reusable water balloons to try out. These were the first ones we bought to try out, and WHOA we were blown away! Super easy too for the 2- and 3-year-old to use, which means more fun for all of us!! Do not think twice or continue with regular water balloons, you’ll waste precious time cleaning up and filling that could be used to make memories." —Taurus
Get a four-pack from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in a variety of pack sizes).
4. A personalized giant wooden Connect 4–style game perfect for backyard game tournaments. Plus why would you wanna play the boring regular size if you could get this gigantic version?!
Chroma Fling is a small biz based in Cincinnati, Ohio, that specializes in personalized gifts and accessories.
This is a personalized game, so be sure to enter the name and date you want on the game in the personalization box.
Promising review: "Very nice craftsmanship. Personalization is perfect." —Sherri
Get it from Chroma Fling on Etsy for $179.99 (originally $199.99; available in seven disc colors).
5. A KitchenAid shaved ice attachment so you can quickly and easily create a delicious and nostalgic snow cone when the temperature is in the high 80s and you desperately need a way to cool down. 🥵
Check out a TikTok of the KitchenAid shave ice attachment in action.
This attachment is compatible with all KitchenAid mixers. And don't forget to load up on all the delicious syrups, too!
Promising review: "The shaved ice attachment came together easily. The ice is the right consistency. I made my own syrup using handmade simple syrup and flavors from my SodaStream machine. Mix until you get desired taste. I added a small amount of fresh lemon juice and a drop or two of food coloring. The coloring is optional. I will enjoy this all summer long!!" —Stack
Get it from Williams Sonoma for $99.95 or from Amazon for $94.99.
6. Or a slushy maker if you spend all year waiting for July 11 when you can show up to 7-Eleven and snag your free Slurpie. Instead you can just whip one up whenever the craving hits (AKA prob once a day…at least).
Check out the a TikTok of the slushie maker in action.
Promising review: "I was skeptical at first but tried it…. Made cherry Coke slushy WOW!!!!! It’s a keeper. Great buy you won't be disappointed. They say use small ice 🧊 but I noticed it melts too fast and freezing was longer. Use regular ice cubes to make the freezing process 15–20 minutes." —Mo Lammy
Get it from Amazon for $59.99.
7. An easy-to-learn game of Kan Jam to add to your backyard game rotation. This will help prevent everyone from sitting around twiddling their thumbs wondering if there's anything fun planned for the afternoon.
It's got the chill backyard vibes of cornhole (and is also played with two teams of two) but it's much lighter and easier to transport.
Promising review: "Very fun backyard game. Shipping was great; came immediately. This product is very durable and will not break. All you have to do is put the stickers on yourself and you are ready to play." —NateG125
Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in five styles).
8. A stainless-steel firepit perfect for toasting your marshmallows over the open flames. It even comes with a grill grate and cover so you can whip up delicious burgers and dogs with that ~smokey~ flavor when everyone starts getting a liiiittttle hangry.
Promising review: "This firepit offers all the ambience you need. It is super easy to start the fire, and the wood packs make it easier, if that’s what you’re looking for. The fire gets going fast and develops a nice hot ember bed (all from one pack). I was very impressed and wasn’t expecting that. This could be used without the wood packs if you have your own wood. Either works perfect. The pit sits off the ground and flames are contained well within the pit. The design was done very well. Lastly, the heat this throws off is amazing. I was sitting a couple of feet away and felt a lot of warmth. This isn’t one of those pits you have to hover over for heat." —Michele R
Get it from Amazon for $395.
9. And a flame colorant to add a little ~magic~ like no one has ever experienced before.
Promising review: "This was a great addition to our camping trip! Just throw the packet in the fire and get a colorful show. It's mesmerizing! And the colors last a long time, longer than expected. I'll buy again." —Amazon Customer
Get six packets from Amazon for $6.99.
10. A drinking game decal designed to go on your cornhole board to take a fun but typical game into a much more exciting version.
Snappy Printing is a small business located in Chicago that sells cornhole decals, doormats, stickers, and more.
Add a little edge to your typical cornhole game! The decals says things like: waterfall, give one drink, you drink one, do a shot or shotgun, partner drinks, etc. Note: this is just a decal, boards are not included, so if you don't already have a set grab some here!
Promising review: "These decals went on very easily with two people working together — minimal bubbling that the provided tool took care of. The decal is a very heavy vinyl with a great adhesive. Vibrant colors. We can't wait for the weather to warm up and to start playing." —Amanda V.
Get it from Snappy Printing on Etsy for $59.25+ (originally $79; available in two lamination options).
11. A slip-and-slide with three body boards because that old version you've had sitting in your garage for the past 20 years just isn't gonna cut it anymore. You'll be so envious you will more than likely take a ~slide~ yourself!
Promising review: "This is a throwback to my childhood with major improvements. Not every backyard is appropriate for a pool. And even if you do have a pool, there’s just something special about running through a sprinkler. I bought this for the nieces and nephews. We set it up in no time flat. My brother and I were laughing about how much things have improved since our childhood. This slide has three lanes and inflatable body boards. How are these kids going to ever learn to fight over who’s next and bandage up there stomachs after friction burn? This toy is all fun and no risk. But seriously, this is fantastic. Three lanes for racing with water arching over them. It really was a blast. And yes, my brother and I tried it and I won!" —Will-Review4u
Get it from Amazon for $40.99+ (available in three sizes).
12. A set of outdoor string lights that'll create the perfect, twinkly ambience to keep the party going long after the sun has set.
Promising review: "These are so cute and perfect! I have a decent-sized balcony and have been looking to turn it into a relaxing area. I got my lights within a few days and I immediately opened up my package, everything was there, no broken bulbs and a spare bulb. I then tested out the power and these lights are perfectly bright and still set a very calming and intimate scene." —Domzzs
Get them from Amazon for $17.95+ (available in four lengths, three colors, and a two pack).
13. A giant Jenga set so you can challenge your guests to a friendly competition that doesn't require people huddling super close together if they wanna get in on the action. You can even turn it into a drinking game by writing challenges on each block or keep it PG, that one is up to you.
14. A spacious inflatable pool you can toss some floats and toys into and pretend it's the real deal. Big enough for a few of your guests to pop in at a time, this is the perfect solution to staying cool during your party.
Promising review: "Very easy to unbox and get set up. I used an electric pump (not included) and followed the easy directions. Took me only about 10 minutes to get it inflated. Then it only took me maybe an hour to fill with a garden hose. I love the drain pipe underneath that is angled away from the pool so the water is directed out of the area. But I can see that it might not be good for the pool lining if someone stepped on it from inside the pool. So I was careful to let my kids know not to step in that corner. Overall, great quality, good size (fits three full-size floaties in it!), and my kids loved it." —Karen Moreland
Get it from Amazon for $64.99+ (available in two sizes).
15. And a set of color-changing inflatable pool lights that are solar powered so you don't have to put in any effort to reap the benefits of these vibey lights. Your pool parties are about to get ~lit.~
These appear white during the day but automatically switch colors at night and can last up to eight hours after being charged in direct sunlight. They also have a loop on the top if you would rather hang them somewhere!
Promising review: "Liked these so much we ordered another set. We’ve had them in our pool 24/7 for almost a year and a half. They’ve lasted through storms, wind, etc. We have only had to add air to them one time and they haven’t gotten dirty or moldy (which was a concern being white). I love that they are solar so no changing batteries or remotes needed. Great fun colors! Highly recommend." —THE HOMME LIFE
Get a set of two from Amazon for $37.99.
16. Orrr flamingo floating lights, which are solar-powered, so they will be ready to light up your night after a day of fun in the sun. These little cuties are just the guests you'd want at your pool party.
Promising review: "My husband asked for 'solar pool critters' for his birthday. One of his gifts was this flamingo and it's worked great all summer long in the Vegas sun. It's stayed fully inflated and hasn't faded a bit in the strong sun. It lights up every night and lasts well past our bedtime. It's fun to watch it float across the water on windy days. We'd definitely recommend this flamingo." —zoso babe
Get a 2-pack from Amazon for $36.99 (also available as a one- or three-pack).
17. A classic ring toss game to help amp up the vibes and get the adrenaline rushing while you all practice your best throws to see who can get the most points.
JnJ Handmade is a family-owned Etsy shop in Wisconsin that specializes in a variety of handmade items, including yard games, home decor, and DIY kits.
Promising review: "Better than I thought it would be! This is a great game to get the family going at a backyard gathering!" —Ayoka
Get it from JnJ Handmade on Etsy for $55.99+ (available in three stains).
18. A portable 120-inch screen so you can host the most epic outdoor movie night after the sun has set and your guests have worn themselves out a bit! No more projecting movies onto the side of your house and wondering if you're looking at an important detail of the movie or just an impurity on your wall.
This screen is lightweight yet incredibly sturdy and reviewers rave about how easy it is to set up. Plus, it's wrinkle free so your picture stays pristine and crisp.
Promising review: "This projector screen is easy to set up and for the money, it is a great value. It is a stretchy material. The stakes are definitely needed if you set up outside as it is basically a big sail. When you have it strapped down, it does make it feel sturdy. So far we have used several times outside with no issues. It comes in a simple bag, which is nice to pack in the closet as well. This projector is worth the investment." —Audrey Wooten
Get it from Amazon for $95.99.
19. And a mini projector to complete the ultimate set up. Picture this: you're sitting on a blanket under the stars surrounded by your friends, your favorite movie is being projected, and you have a bowl of popcorn on your lap…doesn't get much better than that.
This projector is Wi-Fi compatible, so you can connect this with your phone, tablet, or computer. And even if you're somewhere without a Wi-Fi connection, you can connect your phone to the projector with the included cable.
Promising review: "I bought this projector to use outside on my deck and it works perfectly for that… The picture is very clear, even better than I thought it would be. The projector is light and small which makes it perfect for travel use or even camping… I would recommend this projector to just about anyone." —rachel forman
Get it from Amazon for $99.98.
20. Twister Splash, which is a ~twist~ on the classic game you played as a kid. Left foot green… now who can handle being sprayed longest before falling over?!
The game comes with an inflatable splash mat, hose connector, waterproof spinner, and gameplay instructions.
Promising review: "Fun for all ages. Such a fun twist on an already loved game! This kept my 4- and 7-year-olds' attention for a while! Each spot you put your hand on sprays water, whoever stays up the longest wins! Even the adults had to try it out. I was a little nervous with the quality of the plastic, but it withheld adults and kids moving all around it without any holes." —Deborah Gaffney
Get it from Amazon for $19.98+ (also available in a larger size).
21. A side table with a little secret…it's also a cooler! Get one for your next party and watch all your guests' eyes grow wider when they finally figure out where you're hiding all the cold drinks!
Promising review: "I was looking for a table to sit between two rockers on my patio and came across this table/cooler combo! It was very easy to assemble and the color matches my patio furniture. It holds a decent amount of beverages too. I recommend adding them in before you add the ice for a better fit. The drain plug was easy to use and in a good place to drain in the grass area next to my patio. It was a great and fun addition that everyone enjoyed using." —Kat C.
Get it from Amazon for $80.96+ (available in two colors).
22. A Nerf Super Soaker RoboBlaster because sometimes there's nothing more fun than sneak attacking your friends by absolutely soaking them!
There are also targets you can aim for if your friends aren't interested in getting soaking wet.
Promising review: "This water blaster connects to your garden hose — and then it's so much fun for the kids. We've had some recent hot days, and my son and his friends have entertained themselves for hours outside with this SuperSoaker blaster. It comes with some targets to aim at — but the kids like spraying each other." —Kevinbeijing
Get it from Amazon for $17.06+ (available in two versions).
23. A mini sprinkler pool for your kiddos (or you) to splash around in and cool off without having to dump what seems like two TONS of water out of a kiddie pool when the fun is over.
Several reviewers shared that this little pool kept their kids engaged for hours.
Promising review: "My kids love this. It is soo easy to plug the hose into and turn the water on and the kids can have hours of fun. Once the kids are done playing, I disconnect the hose, let the water drain, and hang it over the porch." —Austin
Get it from Amazon for $24.95+ (available in four themes).
24. Or a portable wading pool that is big enough to lounge or play in to help cool off. And when the season is over you can fold it up for easy storage!
Plus it isn't inflatable like other little pools, so you don't have to worry about your dog puncturing it. And while we're on the subject, check out hot weather pet tips from the ASPCA.
Promising review: "This came in handy. Had a water balloon birthday party and this was perfect to hold all the water balloons. Then after kids loved splashing in it. So easy to fold and put away. I'll never buy a plastic or blow-up kids' pool again." —elizabeth matheson
Get it from Amazon for $13.99+ (available in four sizes and four colors).
25. A mini golf course so you can challenge your friends to a quick putt-off from the comfort of your own backyard. Loser is the next target for water gun practice.
Promising review: "Only moments to set up after receiving it on the day it was promised. Very fast delivery. Added some blocking around for my bad putts and have enjoyed it very much. This is the 5'x10' version, and so happy with it. Worth the money." —Kimberly Rueby
Get it from Amazon for $199.99+ (available in six sizes).
26. And a pack of LED golf balls you can keep track of no matter how far into the bushes they go. Plus, they just look a whole lot cooler than regular balls.
Promising review: "It's hard to reserve golf rounding times these days, and most of the times, we end the game after sunset. These balls are very pretty and go a great distance, too. I love these balls flying so far at night." —Amazon Customer
Get a six-pack from Amazon for $22.95.
27. A delicious-smelling citronella candle designed to keep critters away so they don't ~bug~ you or your guests. Plus, the wood wick will add the extra ambiance of crackling fire sounds.
Anchored Northwest is a husband-and-wife-founded small biz based in Spokane, Washington making the most delicious-smelling candles and room sprays.
Promising review: "Haven't lit it yet, but the candle smells great! The smell alone is so potent even without lighting it yet, we've seen a decrease in mosquitoes just leaving it out!" —Michelle Gulino
Get it from Anchored Northwest on Etsy for $18.71 (originally $24.95).
28. Or a scent-free mosquito repellent that'll keep the buggers away without adding any smells or sounds to your relaxing vibes. Sometimes, you just wanna eat your freshly grilled burgers without worrying about getting eaten alive or having your whole meal flavored with citronella.
This device uses scent-free repellent mats using naturally occurring repellents found in plants to get rid of mosquitoes.
Promising review: "My husband bought this Thermacell Repeller so I would stop complaining. I still haven't stopped complaining (sorry, honey), but I have stopped flapping my gums about mosquitos. As long as we were outside around our home, I just wasn't getting a bite. It was miraculous and beautiful. Then, we went to a friend's house. Ouch. They were all over me again. It took me a while to realize (yeah, I'm a little slow) that the reason I wasn't getting bit at home was because my husband had lit the Thermacell each time we were outside. I honestly didn't even realize it was on and running. It doesn't make noise, doesn't produce a smell, and doesn't really take up any room at all. Pretty dang amazing. Most everyone who visited this summer has purchased one. I advise you do the same if you're a mosquito magnet like me. It really is a game changer." —Becky C.
Get it from Amazon for $18.39+ (available in 12 colors and two-packs).
29. An adjustable mister you can attach to your hose to keep everyone cool while lounging in your backyard. You may not have a private pool, but this will make everyone feel like they're living the most luxurious life.
The mister will cool the surrounding area by 20 degrees, and it comes with an interchangeable flower-shaped misting head for a fun, whimsy detail.
Promising review: "Works exactly how I want it to. Provides a fine, cool most on the patio, allowing us to enjoy the backyard until sunset without breaking a sweat. Easy to set up. It was out of the box and cooling us off within minutes." —Debra L. Kusek
Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (also available in multi-packs).
30. A watermelon cutter that will revolutionize your fruit eating. Efficiently and effectively cutting up a watermelon may be one of those things that has never been perfected…until now! You'll be able to quickly refill the platter for your seemingly famished guests in no time.
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Promising review: "This tool is so handy!! I hate cutting watermelon, and this is so fast and easy to use and easy to wash. I cut a watermelon in less than five minutes. It cuts yellow watermelon too!!! The included baller is great for the small left over, hard to reach places." —Andrea Draine
Get it from Amazon for $12.37.
The reviews used in this post have been edited for length and clarity.