19 Must-Haves for the Best Ice Cream Party Ever

Caitlin Ball
Jul 05, 2014

Nothing screams summer like ice cream, and we know you’re screaming for it, too. We just can’t wait any longer for the sweet tunes of the ice cream truck to round our street corner, and to watch our sky-high cone melt right before our eyes. We need it now and we’re ready to enjoy it with all of our friends and family. Enough with the waiting… check out these 19 must-haves for an epic ice cream party so you can get right to planning!

1. Strawberry Ice Cream: An ice cream party needs the standard vanilla and chocolate, but you might want to also consider a fruity addition to mix things up a little bit. Grab some strawberries and make your own homemade version! (via The Gastronomic Bong)

2. Rainbow Polka Dot Ice Cream Cups ($14): Please don’t tell us you were going to use regular ol’ bowls. Fancy ice cream cups, preferably ones with bright colors and patterns, are a must.

3. DIY Ice Cream Cone Holder: For your cone-loving friends, get out your tools and DIY this adorable cone holder. Nothing like a little equity before indulging in some ice cream. (via Wedding Clan)

4. Ice Cream Garland ($7 and up): Grab a line and start stringing. You will already have enough time-consuming projects to DIY, so avoid the fuss over the decor and quickly dress the walls with ice cream.

5. Ice Cream Sprinkle Zipper Clutch ($56): Even ice cream parties require chic accessories. Grab an ice cream cone clutch and make everyone jealous.

6. Ice Cream Cone Pinata ($55): If you ate too much ice cream and are cursing its name, we have an answer for you. Give this piñata a good smack to show just how mad you are. You’ll probably even burn some cals while you’re at it!

7. Vintage Ice Cream Spoon Set ($33): You probably can’t buy one of these vintage spoons for each of your guests, but they would sure look cute on display. Keep them for the after-party and show your other half which ice cream is yours!

8. DIY Tassel Ice Cream Spoons: These spoons are much more affordable for your guests (and way cute). All you need to do to add a little pizzazz is throw some tassels on the end. (via Studio DIY)

9. Ice Cream Cone Balloons: How fun are these ice cream balloons? The best part about them is that they’re just regular balloons with a little paper wrapped around the bottom. (via The Chic Site)

10. DIY Ice Cream Cone Tray: For a classy party with service, your guests definitely won’t mind grabbing an ice cream off of this fun tray. (via Alice and Lois)

11. Printable Strawberry Ice Cream Cone Wrappers: The homemade strawberry ice cream will be such a hit that it’ll need its own matching wrapper. Print your own and start wrapping your cones! (via Design Eat Repeat)

12. Black and White Ice Cream: This ice cream brings everyone to the yard, not just the boys. Chocolate and vanilla are the perfect base for any topping your heart desires. (via Free Range Cookies)

13. Homemade Chocolate Magic Shell: There isn’t much more magical than the magical shell. Get out your inner magician and give your guests exactly what they want. (via The Comfort of Cooking)

14. Salted Caramel Sauce: Meet the sexy sister of last season’s caramel topping, the salted caramel sauce for drizzling. (via American Heritage Cooking)

15. Patriotic Ice Cream Cones: Show your patriotic pride with some stylish cones. Just dip the ends in melted chocolate and roll them in red, white and blue. (via Noble Pig)

16. Hot Fudge Sauce: This may be a no-brainer, but it is still the topping of all toppings. The sauce of all sauces. (via Simply Gourmet)

17. Wine Glass Toppings: Parties are all about the display, and you don’t want to just throw the toppings anywhere. Place them in wine glasses with spoons to make sure your guests will feel fancy as they stuff themselves with sweets. (via Elizabeth Anne Designs)

18. Ice Cream Cone Cookies: Not everyone likes ice cream (gasp!), so it wouldn’t hurt to have another dessert option at the party. Make sure you stick with the theme and whip up some ice cream cookies. (via Kara’s Party Ideas)

19. Paper Punch Ice Cream Cones: Making leftovers for friends to take home? Add a pretty paper ice cream cone tag to personalize your party favor. (via Damask Love)

Will you be hosting an ice cream party this summer? Which of these must-haves will you be sure to include? Tell us in the comments or Tweet us about it!

Anthropologie Has The Cutest Holiday Hosting Goodies, And My Wallet Is Screaming

Hosting for the holidays just got a whole lot more magical with Anthropologie’s goodies. From elegant tableware that'll totally "wow" your guests to whimsical decor that sets the perfect festive mood, Anthropologie is the premier destination for polished party essentials. Whether you're planning a chic dinner party or getting lit with your cousins, these are the best finishing touches for a spirited gathering. Get ready to impress your guests with our picks!

Our favorite holiday hosting necessities from Anthropologie:

Let's dive into some of the best holiday hosting pieces from Anthropologie, from tableware to decor!

    Anthropologie

    Holiday in the City Stoneware Dessert Plate

    These adorable dessert plates are available in several different designs, all of which depict a different city pictured in holiday snow. Your Christmas sweet treats will look stunning served on these!

    Anthropologie

    Bow Icon Juice Glasses

    Anthro's viral Icon Juice Glasses are super cute for a variety of occasions, but these bows feel especially holiday-esque. Snag a set for your next gathering's cocktail lineup!

    Anthropologie

    Waterfall Coupe Glasses

    Martini, anyone?! These stunning, shine-lined glasses have the perfect touch of elegance.

    Anthropologie

    Benedita Bow Ceramic Stoneware Serve Bowl

    This serving bowl is perfect for salads, pasta salads, soups, and more. Bring it to a holiday potluck, and everyone will be asking where you got it.

    Anthropologie

    Morgan Shot Glasses

    Now it's really gonna be a party with these colorful shot glasses. Practical in the moment and quite cute when not in use, your bar cart is begging for this set!

    Anthropologie

    Festive Bistro Tile Dessert Plate

    'Tis the season for more and more sweet treats, but you could even serve dinner or apps on these unique dessert plates.

    Subscribe to our newsletter for more holiday decor, hosting tips, and recipe ideas for the season!

    Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

    hostingholiday partydining table decorparty decoreditecomhome decor

    6 Home Decor Trends That Will Be Huge In 2025 (Thanks To Studio McGee)

    Studio McGee has spent the last decade inspiring us with a blend of accessible and elevated designs, creating beautiful and totally livable spaces. In her 2025 Home Decor Trends report, Shea McGee emphasizes that home decor trends evolve gradually over time, and I couldn’t agree more. Unlike the fast-paced world of fashion, where trends shift every season, these design moves develop organically over time, and that's good for your wallet and taking your time to create a space you love. Get inspired to refresh your home in 2025 with a few new accents, from embellishments like fringe to maybe a little western or seaside art.

    Here are Studio McGee's 2025 Home Decor Trend Predictions, with a few surprises!

    Photo: Shade Degges | Design: Studio Mountain

    Romantic Silhouettes

    Take Romantic Silhouettes, for example. This is a trend we've seen steadily gain traction over the past few years. Think curvy furniture, delicate floral prints, and soft blush hues — when curated thoughtfully, these elements can become timeless staples in your home.

    www.youtube.com

    - YouTube

    Watch Shea's take on designing your home for 2025!

    Photo: Michael P.H. Clifford | Design: A1000XBetter

    Western Cowboy

    This is a design trend that totally surprised me, but I'm so happy to see it in the mix. Elements like leather furniture, rustic accessories, equestrian art, even wood walls, shown in this office designed by A1000XBetter, are making an impact in 2025 and beyond. But Shea notes that you can take this trend literally or just be inspired by the look. You can also mix it with other styles to personalize it for you. Add romantic pillows or ruffled tablecloths like McGee & Co. x Loeffler Randall Gardenia Ruffle Border Tablecloth – things you love that make it yours vs. based solely on one trend.

    Gavin Carter| Design: House of Rolison

    Saturated Colors

    Shea predicts that rich hues like deep browns, oxblood red, and earthy greens will continue to dominate home decor colors going into 2025. House of Rolison's bathroom brown is an excellent example of this beautiful trend.

    courtesy of Stewart-Schafer

    Pattern Drenching

    Embracing a single pattern and drenching an entire room in it — from walls to pillows, headboards, and curtains — is a surprise trend for 2025. This maximalist approach, which has been quietly gaining traction, draws inspiration from Arts and Crafts designers like William Morris and has been in and out of vogue since the Victorian era.

    McGee & Co.

    Embellishments

    This is a trend you can easily DIY to add an extra layer of charm to your decor. Think playful details like fringe accents —beautifully shown in McGee & Co.'s Philippa Settee — along with tassels, pleats, ruffles, and rope. It’s all about embracing texture and whimsy, so have fun with it!

    McGee & Co.

    Seaside Inspiration

    Coastal decor has long been an influence in design and you can be inspired by it in many forms, from shell accents to beach-inspired artwork like McGee & Co.'s Distant Coastline art to textured seagrass baskets and jute rugs. Even the soothing hues of the sea — think soft blues, sandy neutrals, and gentle greens — can inspire your 2025 spaces.

    Check out the full list of Studio McGee 2025 Design Trends!

    Check out our online newsletter for more 2025 home decor inspo!

    Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

    home decor trends2025 home decor trendsstudio mcgeemcgee & coshea mcgeehome decor inspirationhome decor

    Prost! Here’s Everything You Need to Throw an Epic Oktoberfest Party

    Halloween may be the most popular October holiday, but we’re excited about one more fall event that gives us the perfect excuse to gorge on beer, brats, and soft pretzels. That’s right, people: We’re talkin’ Oktoberfest. If you’ve never thrown an Oktoberfest party, we’ve got everything you’ll need and more, from decor ideas to German-inspired menu items. So put on your best lederhosen, crack open a cold one, and get to party planning.

    Waiting on Martha

    Pumpkin Beer Cooler

    Oktoberfest is all about the beer (duh). So instead of carving out a jack-o-lantern, hollow out a pumpkin, fill it up with ice and get to cooling those seasonal ales you love so much.

    Brit + Co

    Sparkling Pumpkin Cider Beertail

    We love sipping on our pumpkin ale straight, but to switch things up, try this beertail made with pumpkin ale, sparkling cider, and lots of cinnamon.

    Amazon

    MyGift 2 Liter Das Boot Beer Glasses

    No, you are never, ever, EVER too old for a das boot. Invest in this set of four for your upcoming shindig because, well, it isn’t an Oktoberfest party without a big ol’ beer-filled boot floating around!

    Amazon

    TRUE Craft Beer Tasting Glasses

    These sleek glasses are the perfect beer vessel for your German-themed get-together, and they’re also just awesome bar staples. Any excuse to grow the home bar, right?

    Amazon

    Libbey Heidelberg Glass Beer Mugs, Set of 4

    Clink the night away with these festive (and hefty!) beer mugs.

    The Flair Exchange

    DIY Harlequin Garland

    No Oktoberfest party is complete without the standard harlequin garland. DIY this puppy and string it up right before your guests arrive.

    Braided Crown

    A little dress-up never hurt anybody! Complete your Oktoberfest look with this feminine and effortless braided crown. (via Camille Styles)

    Etsy

    Lederhosen Set

    For all moms out there, dress yourlittle one for the occasion. There’s no reason they have to miss out on the party just because of… well… obvious reasons.

    A Beautiful Mess

    Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

    Roast up the pumpkin seeds from your beer cooler for a light and salty beer snack.

    Taryn Williford

    Pretzel Necklaces

    Right when your guests walk in, hand them one of these adorable pretzel necklaces. Who doesn’t love a good wearable snack?

    Fashion Edible

    Homemade Oktoberfest Pretzels

    If beer is the Batman of Oktoberfest, then homemade soft pretzels are certainly the Robin. Serve these puppies up warm with some tangy yellow mustard for the perfect party snack.

    Dine & Dish

    Homemade Pretzel Bites

    Not into full-size pretzels? No problem! These pretzel bites are the bomb.com.

    The Flair Exchange

    Pretzel Bite Mini Bucket Holders

    If you go the pretzel-bite route, be sure to craft up some adorable p-bite holders, like these minibuckets lined with Oktoberfest colors.

    Amazon

    Maille Mustard Variety Pack

    And you best not be serving up all of these pretzels without a little mustard.

    Pillsbury

    Pretzel Bar

    A food bar is always a good idea, especially if you’re expecting lots of guests. Create a pretzel sampling bar, complete with various mustards and cheesy dips, to really get the Oktoberfest-ivities started.

    Deliciously Yum

    Pretzel Rolls

    For those of you planning on having a DIY sandwich station, bake up these yummy pretzel rolls to stick with the theme.

    Host the Toast

    Pull-Apart Pretzel Skillet With Beer Cheese Dip

    Pull-apart breads are everything, especially when there’s beer cheese dip involved.

    Brit + Co

    Wisconsin Beer Brats With Sauerkraut

    Grilled brats topped with homemade sauerkraut? There’s absolutely nothing better.

    Love and Lemons

    Grilled Potato Arugula Salad

    Serve this lovely grilled potato salad alongside those brats for the perfect Oktoberfest meal.

    Gimme Some Oven

    Pumpkin Beer Bread

    Fully commit to the beer theme and whip up this scrumptious pumpkin beer bread made with pumpkin puree.

    The Kitchn

    Chocolate-Dipped Beer Marshmallows

    Beer marshmallows??? Tell us more!

    Tablespoon

    Beer Mug Cupcakes

    These are so ridiculously amazing, we can’t. even. stand it. Those fondant beer mugs are filled with chocolate cake and with Bailey’s Irish Cream chocolate ganache…!!!

    Subscribe to our newsletter for more yummy fall recipes!

    Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

    This post has been updated.

    fallbeerfoodparty decorlifestyle

    Surprise! The 2025 Dunkin' Menu Just Dropped With 5 New Drinks

    Dunkin’s winter menu for 2025 is lookin’ pretty sweet. Seriously – 3 out of 5 new drinks on the menu are inspired by cake. Since there’s little I love more than a good, decadent dessert (other than coffee, of course), I’m especially excited about this new lineup!

    The Dunkin’ winter menu also has one sweet snack and an iced espresso drink that are both hauntingly similar to what Starbucks has to offer. Is the competition heating up, or is it just me?

    The Dunkin’ winter menu dropped on December 31, just ahead of the new year. Dunkin's holiday menu dropped on November 1.

    Let’s officially get into it. Here’s everything on the Dunkin’ menu this December to start 2025 off just right!

    Drinks On The Dunkin' Winter Menu

    @snackolator

    NEW! Lava Cake Signature Latte

    Lava Cake Swirl flavoring, whipped cream, mocha drizzle, and hot chocolate powder. Now that's a mouthful! That's exactly how this new drink is built – with tons and tons of chocolate. If you've got a strong sweet tooth, this one's for you.

    @snackolator

    NEW! Lava Cake Coffee

    Dunkin' is also featuring the new Lava Cake Swirl flavoring in this creamy coffee. It'll be available to order hot or iced!

    @snackolator

    Brown Sugar Shakin' Espresso

    Um, Starbucks dupe, anyone?! Dunkin's version of the famed Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso looks like it follows a very similar recipe to the Starbies way: espresso (shaken until frothy), brown sugar syrup, and oat milk. I can't wait to try this one and see how it measures up to my routine Starbucks order. It even got a co-sign from Sabrina Carpenter.

    Dunkin'

    Brown Sugar Oat Iced Matcha Latte

    Dunkin' will offer two new in-app exclusive drinks this season, the first being the Brown Sugar Oat Iced Matcha Latte. It's like your average iced matcha latte, amped up with some brown sugar syrup and oat milk. Yum.

    @snackolator

    Raspberry Lava Cake Coffee

    The second in-app exclusive drink on theDunkin' winter menu is the Raspberry Lava Cake Coffee, which features a dose of Lava Cake Swirl alongside a raspberry flavor shot and cream. You'll be able to order this one hot or iced.

    Food On The Dunkin' Winter Menu

    @snackolator

    NEW! Whoopie Pie Specialty Donut

    Now, onto the good stuff. The Whoopie Pie Specialty Donut features a halved glazed chocolate cake donut that's filled with vanilla whipped buttercreme icing and topped with a cute lil' buttercreme rosette.

    Dunkin'

    Iced Lemon Loaf Cake

    Okay, yet another Starbucks similarity! This zesty-sweet snack returns on December 31. Dunkin's Iced Lemon Loaf Cake is moist as can be, and is topped with a thick layer of lemon icing.

    More Dunkin' Menu Items To Come In 2025

    Dunkin'

    Dunkin' Valentine's Donuts

    Speculation around the Dunkin' winter menu for 2025 also dropped some hints about the chain's Valentine's Day offerings.

    According to the buzz, the Brownie Batter (pictured above) and Cupid's Choice donuts will return on January 29. What's even more exciting is that a new iteration of Dunkin's Munchkins will be available, too!

    The new Valentine's Munchkins will reportedly be made from glazed chocolate donut holes coated in Valentine's-esque sprinkles. I'm craving them already!

    Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest and greatest food news sent straight to your inbox!

    This post has been updated.

    food newsdunkindunkin donutsnew menu itemsmenu leakfast foodcoffeefood

    14 Shots You’ll Actually Want To Take This New Year’s Eve

    If there’s any holiday where you’re encouraged to take shots, it’s New Year’s Eve. But, that doesn’t mean you should limit your NYE party beverages to champagne. These sparkly, glittery and all-around enticing shots are sure to please and won’t induce any bad-idea hangovers from too manytequila drinks. You can let your resolution ideas start when the calendar reads 2025. Meanwhile, cheers to enjoying these shots you’ll actually want to make (and take) this New Year’s Eve.

    The 14 Best New Year's Eve Shots To Throw Back For 2025!

    Brit + Co

    Apple Cider Shooter

    That caramel vodka you bought on a whim once can finally be put to good use with this spiked apple cider shooter. Whip it up as a shot or a large punch that will last all night long. (via Brit + Co)

    Brit + Co

    Root Beer Float Shooter

    This soda shop classic gets an adult upgrade with ROOT, a traditional alcoholic Native American tea. And tea is healthy, right? ;) (via Brit + Co)

    Brit + Co

    Rainbow Shots

    Meet your new party trick! All five of these shots come out of one shaker. Prepare to amaze your guests with your bartending skills this NYE. (via Brit + Co)

    Sprinkle Bakes

    Champagne Chantilly Shooters

    Be sure to add these cake-inspired shooters to your after-holiday to-do list to start 2016 with a little bit of deliciousness. (via Sprinkle Bakes)

    Feast + West

    Champagne Jell-O Shots

    Turn your champagne into a shot! If you’re hosting a large party, these are a way more affordable option than a case of champagne. (via Feast + West)

    Dine and Dish

    Blackberry Gin Shooters

    This shooter is *almost* too pretty to drink. Plus, we can all pretend that the blackberries are doing you some good. (via Dine and Dish)

    A Year of Cocktails

    Butternut Rum Lifesaver

    A shot that tastes like candy is a sweet way to start your year off right. (via A Year of Cocktails)

    Holly's Cheat Day

    Tipsy Spritzer Shots

    Not every shot needs to be super strong. If you’re looking for something you can enjoy throughout the night, this sweet, bubbly and tart “spritzer” shot is low in alcohol content and big on flavor. (via Holly’s Cheat Day)

    Bubbly Nation Creations

    Sparkling Jello Jigglers

    Swap out champagne for the grape juice in this recipe to make a fancy, adult version of a JELL-O jiggler. Sprinkles and edible gold stars required. (via Bubbly Nation Creations)

    Broma Bakery

    Champagne Jello Shots

    Awww, Jello Shots are all grown up in this festive recipe. They have a nice flavor that won’t leave you wincing afterwards. (via Broma Bakery)

    The First Year

    White Chocolate Champagne Cheesecake Shooters

    This shot is delicious enough to be dessert. Top yours with edible glitter sprinkles to get even more festive. (via The First Year)

    Cookin' Canuck

    Cranberry Kamikaze Shots

    NYE calls for a fancier drink than a go-to beer or wine. Ring in the new year with cranberry kamikaze shots that look pretty and taste delicious (via Cookin' Canuck)

    Tablespoon

    Banana Split Shooters

    This shot requires five ingredients that'll send your taste buds soaring. I mean, what could be better than taking a shot of something that tastes like dessert? (via Tablespoon)

    Something Swanky

    Sparkling Cider Jello Shots (Non-Alcoholic)

    If you want to be extra careful not to induce a hangover when you wake up in 2024, your best bet are these sparkling cider jello shots. They're made with unflavored gelatin, distilled water, cider and your choice of berries, cherries, or gummies! (via Something Swanky)

    Looking for more NYE recipe or drink ideas? Check out Brit + Co on Pinterest and check out our New Year's Eve dinner ideas for more inspiration.This post has been updated.

    party ideasnsfwnew years eve