Make a Splash with These Shark Week Party Ideas

Dive Into Shark Week: Ultimate Party Planning Guide

July marks the arrival of one of the most thrilling annual events on television—Shark Week! This iconic series, celebrated on Discovery Channel, attracts millions of viewers each year. As we gear up for its 37th installment, it’s time to plan epic viewing parties that will make a splash. Whether you’re hosting a family-friendly gathering or a lively get-together with friends, we’ve got the ultimate guide to create a jaw-dropping Shark Week celebration.

Setting the Scene: Shark-Themed Decor

To get your guests in the mood for Shark Week, start with captivating decorations from the moment they arrive. Here are some creative ideas to transform your space into an oceanic wonderland:

Outdoor Decorations

1. Ocean Entrance: Use blue tarps to create a water-like pathway leading to your door. Cut out shark heads from cardboard to line the entrance, and add wave cutouts and life preservers for dramatic flair.
2. Shark Fins: Emulate a shark-infested sea by adorning your yard with cardboard shark fins, which can double as Halloween decorations.

Indoor Transformations

Once inside, immerse your guests in a shark’s habitat:

• Bubble Illusion: Scatter blue balloons throughout your home to mimic bubbles, complemented by blue tablecloths and dinnerware.
• Ocean Lanterns: Incorporate sea-themed lanterns, like jellyfish, to enhance the aquatic atmosphere.
• Signs and Accessories: Hang “No Swimming, Shark!” signs around your space for an added dramatic touch.

Shark Party Menu: Delicious Bites and Drinks

A successful Shark Week party isn’t complete without a menu that reflects the theme. Focus on finger foods and easy-to-eat dishes that will keep your guests satisfied while they enjoy the show.

Refreshing Beverages

• Ocean Water Punch: Combine Blue Hawaiian Punch and Lemon-Lime Soda for a fizzy, tropical drink. For adults, consider adding a splash of vodka or gin. Enhance it with gummy sharks and whipped cream to mimic ocean waves.

Bite-Sized Treats

1. Shark-Cuterie Board: Create a charcuterie board featuring shark-themed items. Use:
2. Brie Shark: Shape brie cheese into a shark head and fill the mouth with raspberry jam.
3. Cheese Ball Shark: Form a cheese ball into a shark shape, using salami for the mouth and cheese slices for teeth.

4. Fun Snacks: Include gummy sharks, Goldfish crackers, and yogurt-covered fruits.

5. Chips and Dip: Serve tortilla chips that resemble shark fins in a blue-tinged dip. Add a playful touch with Goldfish crackers sprinkled on top and red food coloring to simulate blood trails.

6. Shark Teeth Treats: Dip Bugle chips in white chocolate to create shark teeth—a perfect addition to your snack table.

Sweet Shark Desserts

After indulging in savory treats, sweeten the evening with shark-themed desserts:

• Dirt Cake Cups: Layer blue-tinted vanilla pudding with crushed graham crackers and top with gummy sharks.
• Killer Shark Attack Cupcakes: Fill vanilla cupcakes with red jam for a bloody surprise, topped with blue frosting and cookie fins.
• Watermelon Shark: Carve a watermelon into a shark shape, filling it with diced fruit for a refreshing treat.

Fun and Games: Shark Week Activities

No party is complete without games! Keep the excitement alive with these shark-themed activities:

1. Jaws Cornhole: Use a shark jaw template to transform your cornhole game into a thrilling challenge, aptly named “Chum Toss.”
2. Walk the Plank: Set up a plank for your guests to walk across, adding a fun twist to the traditional game.
3. Shark Week Bingo: Create bingo cards featuring recurring themes from Shark Week shows. Guests can play along while watching!

Unique Party Favors

Send your guests home with memorable goodies that reflect the shark theme. Consider including:

• Shark tooth candy necklaces
• Gummy shark treats
• Lifeguard whistles
• Mini sunscreen or themed sunglasses

These favors not only show appreciation but can also serve as prizes for game winners.

Conclusion

As you prepare for Shark Week, remember that the key to a successful celebration lies in the details—from creative decorations to delicious treats and engaging games. With these ideas, your Shark Week party is sure to make waves and leave a lasting impression on your guests. Get ready to dive into the excitement and celebrate the wonders of the ocean!