Clambake Party Theme
Enjoy the best of what the ocean has to offer—even if you’re not by the ocean.
About the Theme
Clambakes may be commonplace in New England, but you can throw a good old-fashioned clambake anywhere, whether it’s beachside or in your backyard. This party theme is great for kicking off summer via a casual cocktail party, or celebrating a holiday like the 4th of July.
Seafood is the main pillar of this event: either set up a cooking station by an outdoor grill or craft an indoor setup with a few pots of boiling water. Have plenty of lemons and limes on-hand in addition to butter, garlic and hot sauces. Cover tabletops with kraft paper in lieu of linens, add markers and crayons for guests to draw with and engage in serious Tic-Tac-Toe competitions, and don't forget the lobster bibs, steel shell crackers and discard buckets for shells.
VIBE: Nautical
SIMILAR PARTY THEMES: Nautical
Venue Settings
Country Club
You don’t have to host this event on the beaches of Cape Cod. Book with your local country club and if weather permits, head outdoors to celebrate under the sun.
Entertainment
Beach Band
Unwind with the easy-going sounds of a beach band. No matter how close or far you are from the ocean, they can transport your mind to the salty shore.
Food
Seafood Boil
Time for the main attraction: a medley of flavorful seafood. Lobster tails, crab legs, clams, oysters, mussels, shrimp and corn on the cob makeup this packed menu. Provide butter and other dipping options as well as bread for sopping up sauce.
Beverage
Bloody Marys
Bloody Marys are one way to get this party started, and they pair great with seafood.
Creative Detail
Kraft Paper Table Runners
Not only are paper runners a charming detail that add to the theme’s aesthetic, they also make clean up easy and quick.