Back to School Bash #1: Slip ‘n Slide Party!

In about a month, most universities will resume classes for fall semester.  Although the thought of a full load of courses ahead doesn’t sound too appealing, being reunited with friends brings about a positive vibe for resuming school.  Kick off the year with a bang and throw a get-together that no one will forget!  In this four part series, you’ll be sure to take away some great ideas for your very own “Back to School Bash.”

Back to School Bash #1: Slip ‘n Slide Party!

Last year upon our return to school, my sorority sisters and I spent a sunny Saturday afternoon getting “wet ‘n wild” on a giant “slip ‘n slide.”  We spent the entire afternoon going time after time down our creation, and at the end of the day were all in dire need of showers.  We had a fabulous time with each other, and had nice suntans to show for it!  This was one of my favorite hangouts all year, and I hope it’s something we get a chance to do again this year.

ΣΑΩ Sisterhood Slip 'n Slide Social - August 2009

Steps to having your own “Slip ‘n Slide Party”:

1. Find a location. Our sorority slip ‘n slide party was held out at some of our sisters’ house (the front yard has a huge hill – perfect for slip ‘n sliding).  A grassy yard with any type of incline will work just fine.  Make sure that there is a hose and water available at the location of your choice.
   

   My ΣΑΩ sister, Gracie, taking the plunge down our slip 'n slide

2. Invite your friends. Call them, send out a mass text message, or create a Facebook event.  Invite as many, or as few, friends as you desire, but keep in mind, the more the merrier!
   

   Facebook Event

3. Buy a roll of “painter’s plastic.” Sadly we have all outgrown the premade slip ‘n slides, so a few transitions are necessary.  Painter’s plastic works perfectly, and you can purchase rolls of it in many different measurements.  Prices range from $13- $25 per roll.
   

   Roll of painter's plastic

4. Buy landscape stakes. You don’t want your slip ‘n slide to take the plunge with you, so make sure to purchase some stakes to hold it down.  Four- eight stakes should do the trick, depending on the length of your slip ‘n slide.  Each stake will cost around $3.
   

   Landscape Stake

5. Buy liquid dish soap. Squirt this all over your slip ‘n slide, and you’re sure to go flying down.  Use sparingly, because a little will go a long way.  Each bottle will cost approximately $3 per bottle.  Plan on using one bottle every hour, so buy accordingly.
   

   Palmolive liquid dish soap

6. Speakers. Music is a must for this event; just make sure to keep your speakers dry!  For the perfect playlist, check out CL’s Ultimate Summer Road Trip Playlist.
   

   Apple® iHome

Follow these 6 steps, and you should be all set.  Be sure to take pictures so that you can savor your fun day for years to come!

Abby Bryant is an intern with College Lifestyles™.  She is a senior marketing major at Georgia College & State University® and is the president of her sorority, Sigma Alpha Omega®.  She is looking forward to being reunited with her sorority sisters in less than a month and hopes to have another slip ‘n slide party to kick off the year.