Winter pool parties hit Mumbai

It’s getting cooler, but the dipping temperature is no dampener to the fun on the city’s social circuit. In fact, the season seems to be another reason to get the suits on and get wet.
A few elements have changed — like a warmed up pool, special winter themes and games. Here’s how folks are getting into the aquatic element this December. “You might think the cooler weather may be daunting enough for people to want to get wet, but it’s the opposite.Quite a few parties are being planned in the pool in the coming weeks as people find the cold weather exciting,” says city party planner Prachi Dharia. If you are looking to throw a pool party, read on...
Hawaiian bash: Imagine a tropical beach scene in the middle of winter? This is also the most sought after pool theme in Mumbai. From guests wearing colourful shirts to hanging up tiki torches, the island vibe is in demand. Affirms planner Dhawal Oza, “This party is about bamboo accents, cane furniture and guests get tropical flowers like orchids made into armbands and anklets. Folks ask for bright tropical print shirts and shorts as guest giveaways. The backdop matters, so we also put up huge totem poles. The food is served in a halved pineapple and watermelon to merge with the theme, so it gets really exotic.”
‘Nautical’ theme: The other big draw is the ‘water theme’ party. Says party organiser Gaurav Dubey, “This one has aquatic elements like shells, anchors, inflatables and water slides. We just had such a party with a water balloon fight and a ‘ship’ photo booth, where you take home a card saying, “Aye, Captain!”
FOOD AND DRINK
Barbecues work best While the mini-food trend (mini burgers, cocktail samosas and mini pizzas) served with warm salads is big for pool parties, barbecues are also gaining favour. High on the agenda are grilled veggies, prawn and chicken hot off the skewers after a few laps in the pool and guests can have a go at grilling their own faves too.
Themed cakes
Pass round swimming pool themed cakes and cupcakes. Try one with a chocolate or red velvet sponge base and marzipan lifeguard made to look like the birthday host.
GAMES
These pool parties are also about getting some sun and exercise along with the social interaction. “That’s true, contrary to what people think, private pool parties are huge right now,” adds party event planner Alina Nag. “It’s not just for birthdays, people want games and prizes at sundowners, corporate year-end events, even destination wedding party celebration bashes, all by the pool.” Here’s what makes for the ‘wet fun’…
Marco Polo: This is played with three or more players, and has one person who is blindfolded, called Marco. When he yells “Marco” others yell “Polo” and Marco has to find out who has called out his name.
Net Volleyball: Another fun game of skill, this requires only a net and a ball. Guests are divided into two teams and they aim to get the ball into the opponent’s net.