20 Chic Ideas for Your Italian Summer Party Theme
Lauren Miolene
Editor
If you embrace the la dolce vita lifestyle, the search for your perfect party aesthetic is over. Take this as your sign to plan a chic Italian summer party theme for an upcoming birthday, bridal shower, or as an excuse to host a glamorous summer dinner party that’ll be Instagram worthy.
Soak up the season in true Mediterranean style by incorporating Amalfi Coast inspired details like the music, decor, and food and drinks to help channel the laid-back and luxurious Italian summer style.
Whether you're dreaming of lazy afternoons under striped umbrellas, sipping Aperol Spritzes by the sea, or twirling spaghetti with your besties al fresco, it’s time to jump on the Italian summer themed party trend, and we’re here to get you started—no passport required.
Pro tip: Check out our Italian summer party theme Pinterest board for more ideas and inspiration.
1. Italian Singer
The key for setting the Italian summer party aesthetic is through the music. Elevate this celebration by booking an Italian singer that will make this party luxurious.
2. Coastal Color Scheme
A breezy and vibrant color scheme is essential to help capture the charm of the coast. Think of a color palette for the Italian party featuring deep blues, bright yellows, bold oranges, and crisp whites for a seaside vibe.
3. Make Your Own Pasta
@sophfreakincute homemade pasta night for a dinner party = perfection #dinnerpartyideas #homeadepasta #dinnerparty #girlsdinner #dinnerinspo ♬ Cooking, bossa nova, adults, light(950693) - Kids Sound
You’ll obviously need food at this party, so why not cook it yourself? For an interactive Italian summer dinner party idea, set up a long table and make handmade pasta that you can enjoy afterwards.
All you’ll need is flour, water, salt, eggs, and a little bit of elbow grease. Have guests knead and shape their pasta, boil it, and finish with sauces for a true al fresco meal. If you’d rather leave the cooking to the professionals, book a caterer for a fresh and delicious Italian meal.
4. Spritzes
No Italian summer party theme is complete without sipping on spritzes. Set up a spritz bar with the ingredients to mix up Aperol spritzes, Limoncello spritzes, and Hugo spritzes. If you really want to channel the la dolce vita lifestyle, consider booking a bartender to keep the drinks flowing.
5. Italian Band
For a larger event like a birthday or bridal shower, booking an Italian band will get the festa started. Transport guests to the exciting party scene of the coast with live music that will have everyone singing and dancing all night long.
6. Lemon Sorbet
Recreate this refreshing dessert at your Italian summer dinner party that will have everyone posting it on their Instagram stories. Simply scoop lemon sorbet into large, hollowed out lemons for an aesthetic dessert.
If you’re going all-out with the dinner party menu ideas, make fresh Sorbetto al Limone with this recipe by Inside the Rustic Kitchen.
7. Striped Umbrellas
The orange and white striped umbrellas on the beaches are a signature part of the Italian coast. Incorporate this detail into your Italian summer party theme by placing large umbrellas and comfortable seating around your venue.
8. Grazing Table
Antipasti is an important part of Italian dining, plus, who doesn’t love a little snacking? Arrange a large grazing table filled with cured meats, aged cheese, olives, veggies, bruschetta, and focaccia for a perfect appetizer at your Italian summer dinner party.
9. White and Linen Dress Code
If this is a pool party, obviously, bathing suits are required. If you’re opting for an Italian summer dinner party vibe instead, encourage guests to dress in whites, linen, and other light colors.
10. Coffee Cart
Coffee after dessert is an Italian tradition that must be followed at this party—we don’t make the rules! Book a coffee cart to serve espresso shots, cappuccinos, macchiatos, and other caffeinated beverages that will keep the Italian summer party theme going all night long.
11. String Lights
Channel the chic and laid back aesthetic at your Italian summer party theme with plenty of ambient lighting. Set up string lights around your venue for a perfect twinkle in your party backdrop.
12. Tiramisu
Don’t forget to add tiramisu to your list of dinner party menu ideas! This classic Italian dessert is made with ladyfingers, espresso, and creamy mascarpone that is the perfect sweet treat after your meal.
13. Cannoli
These crispy, golden shells filled with creamy ricotta are always a favorite on the dessert table, especially for this italian party. Serve them traditionally with chocolate chips and powdered sugar, or set up a DIY cannoli bar with toppings like crushed pistachios, lemon zest, and even Nutella.
14. Wine Tasting
Sip on the flavors of Italy with a classy wine tasting. Include a variety of vino featuring Chianti, Pinot Grigio, and Marsala while guests learn about the notes and aging process. To take this Italian wine tasting up a notch, consider booking a sommelier to lead the way.
15. DJ
An exciting DJ can blend classic Italian hits, upbeat Euro-pop, and modern remixes to keep the festa going all night. From Andrea Bocelli ballads during dinner to club-style mixes of Italian favorites on the dance floor, a DJ can customize the vibe to match every moment of your celebration.
16. Pizza
No Italian party is complete without pizza. Whether you choose to make your own for a party activity or order from your favorite spot, everyone will love biting into a cheesy slice.
17. Lemon Accents
The Italian coast is known for the gorgeous lemons that grow there. For your Italian summer party theme, incorporate this vibrant fruit into your decor, dinner party menu ideas, and ambiance. Simply decorate your space with bowls of lemons and light lemon scented candles that will transport guests to Positano.
18. Italian Soda
For a non-alcoholic aperitif, have a variety of sparkling Italian sodas to sip on. Serve summer flavors like lemon, blood orange, and grapefruit for a refreshing beverage everyone will enjoy. Don’t forget to complete these mocktails with edible flowers, citrus slices, and little umbrellas.
19. Photo Booth
Capture the smiles, memories, and laughs at your Italian summer party theme with a photo booth. Include props like lemons, sunglasses, and a Vespa backdrop to bring the vibes of the Amalfi Coast to you.
20. Bocce
In between courses at your Italian summer dinner party, make sure to have fun activities, like bocce.
Find more summer party ideas and inspiration here on The Bash.
