Celebrations at Home

Inspiration for Stylish Entertaining

You are here: Home / Holidays / 4th of July / Set up an Ice Cream Sandwich & Float Bar for Summer Parties

Set up an Ice Cream Sandwich & Float Bar for Summer Parties

Set up an ice cream bar with a twist for your summer parties. Let guests create ice cream sandwiches and ice cream floats for a casual dessert that’s fun for all.

ice cream bar display

An ice cream bar is the perfect casual dessert for summer parties, especially for the 4th of July. See how easy it is to create this fun food station and let the summer celebrations begin!

I can’t believe it’s that time already, but the weather is begging for us to plan those outdoor parties. If you’re hosting a Memorial Day party or any party for the season, set up a fun interactive ice cream sandwich & float bar for guests to help themselves.

The idea is simple. Provide ice cream along with cookies and soda for a “make-your-own” station. You can make your cookies from scratch or buy them, but variety is key. The same is true for the sodas – the more flavors the better. Keep it casual and easy to access, and follow my tips below for everything you need to know to set up your own ice cream bar.

Decorate an Ice Cream Bar for July 4th

ice cream bar decorated for July 4thice cream bar sign Set up an ice cream bar with a twist for your summer entertaining. Let guests create ice cream sandwiches and floats for a casual dessert that's fun for all. Pre-scoop ice cream for easy entertaining ice cream bar cookies in mini bucketsSet up an ice cream bar with a twist for your summer entertaining. Let guests create ice cream sandwiches and floats for a casual dessert that's fun for all. ice cream bar vintage soda crate Set up an ice cream bar with a twist for your summer entertaining. Let guests create ice cream sandwiches and floats for a casual dessert that's fun for all.Ice Cream bar tips:

  • Pre-scoop vanilla ice cream balls and keep them in the freezer until ready to serve. If you have an insulated server like this one, it will keep the ice cream from melting too quickly. Have a large spoon handy for grabbing a scoop.
  • Provide 3-5 different types of cookies so guests can taste a variety. They may even want to mix-n-match cookies creating a really unique ice cream sandwich.
  • Use chalkboard signs and tags to label everything.
  • To make it interesting you’ll need more than just root beer for this float station. I’ve also added pomegranate soda, and blueberry soda. Orange would be fantastic too!
  • Make sure you have a bottle opener handy to open the soda bottles.
  • Canning jars {8 oz} are the perfect size to make your floats in. Don’t forget the straws!

This would be a terrific idea for a child’s birthday or end of school party, as well as 4th of July celebration or backyard cookout. Decorate using patriotic colors as I’ve done here, or any palette that suits the theme. For more dessert bar ideas see my ‘build-your-own banana splits‘ and ice cream soda bar.

Your guests will love this dessert bar. Money back guarantee!

Follow me: Google+ | Pinterest | Twitter | Instagram

 

 

Reader Interactions

Comments

    • I would too, Blanca – with 2 different cookie flavors….and then wash it down with a float. LOL