Category Archives: Party Essentials

An outdoor graduation party allows you to host a fun and safe event that honors your graduate while making the most of your backyard space. Trying to figure out how to get started with event planning? These backyard graduation party ideas and fun yard games will provide the inspiration you need.

Keep reading to discover some of the best DIY outdoor graduation party ideas to give your graduate a celebration to remember for a lifetime. (Don’t forget to pest-proof your yard so guests can enjoy the experience without buzzing, biting, and stinging!)

Related Topic: Deterring and Preventing Bugs in Your Garage

Graduation Party Games for Outdoors

Fun yard games for a graduation party will take your event from hum-drum to memorable. The right games and interactive activities will bring the guests together in a fun way that prevents boredom and makes them want to stay longer to celebrate.

Here are some favorite games to set up in your backyard:

Pin the Tassel on the Grad

This game gives your party guests the chance to interact with the guest of honor in photo-form. You’ll need:

• A large photo of the graduate
• DIY tassels or strips of colored paper
• Tape
• Blindfold

Attach the photo of the graduate to a fence, easel, or stand. Place a blindfold on the guest, spin them around, and let them try to place the tassel on the photo of the graduate. Continue the process with each player. The guest who hits the mark closest to the right spot wins!

Hula Hoop Competition

Get the guests out of their lawn chairs and into a fun competition.

You’ll need:

• 2-3 hula hoops
• Open space
• Some fun music
• Stopwatch or timer on a smartphone

Give each player a hula hoop, turn on the music, and see who can keep their hula hoop going the longest. Play the game tournament-style with the players lasting the longest, ending with a championship round.

Backyard Game Sets

Transform your backyard into a fun zone by purchasing a few backyard game sets. Some guests will enjoy playing, while others will have a great time as observers from the comfort of their lawn chairs. Choose from any of the following games to set up in your backyard to facilitate hours of grad party entertainment:

• Cornhole
• Jenga Giant
• Ring toss
• Spikeball
• Frisbee toss

Want help preparing your deck or patio for the party?

Contact our friends at your local Mr. Handyman today for deck or patio repair, installation, sealing, and more.

Keep Bugs Away From Your Outdoor Graduation Party

Even the most inspired backyard graduation parties can be a bust when an invasion of mosquitoes or other pesky insects arrives.

Your local pest control professionals at Mosquito Joe can help make your outdoor event a success by applying an effective barrier spray treatment—including natural treatments—that control pests for up to 30 days. So, before you get the party started, call Mosquito Joe at 1-855-275-2563 or schedule an appointment online today.

A day in the work life of a pest control technician is a busy one. Mosquito Joe services residential customers as well as commercial properties, but through it all, a technician’s main focus is providing high-quality customer service.

Equipped with the latest and greatest equipment and ongoing support from office staff, our technicians set out to service customers from sun up to sun down, around 5-6 days a week. They are trained mosquito control experts who are truly dedicated to making outside fun again for your family and furry friends.

Morning Cup of Joe

Our technicians arrive to the office around 6am to ensure an early start to their jam-packed day of making outside fun again for customers in their community. Attention to detail is of primary concern in the mosquito control industry, so the first thing Mosquito Joe technicians do before they head out to transform an ordinary yard into an itch-free yard, is check their vehicle to make sure it is fully stocked and the chemicals and tools in their transits are secure.

In efforts to maximize efficiency and time management, technicians follow a tightly gridded area associated with zip codes. Our office managers prepare these “routes” for each transit and conduct a quick huddle to run through the details of the day. Each transit will have 2 technicians, a designated driver and a fully charged tablet and GPS.

“From the office team to the techs that come out to spray, customer service and customer satisfaction combined with GREAT RESULTS and always going the extra mile for clients makes Mosquito Joe of South Miami one of the best companies my wife and I have ever experienced. The spraying reminders, billing process and inquiries are handled with professionalism and expertise, we have referred a few of our friends and neighbors to the service and everyone agrees with us: It’s the best investment in making the outside fun again!”

-Jorge A

Mosquito Joe Transit Arrives

Our technicians will check to see if the customer is home and whether or not the yard is accessible, with all pets indoors. Although we don’t require you to be home when our technicians arrive, we do recommend slight initial interaction for your first spray in order to appropriately assess your yard and identify any problem areas you may or may not be aware of. We pride ourselves off of impeccable customer service and would love to meet you, guide you through the process, answer questions and address any problem areas with you. Next, we’ll canvas the property looking for active larvae populations and potential breeding grounds, and recommend ways to eliminate standing water in your yard.

“Friendly and professional staff. I have used Mosquito Joe for three years and have been able to enjoy my backyard again.”

-K.N.

Busy during the work week? No problem! We’ll leave behind a post-service door hanger at the end of service for you to review upon your return.

What’s the Science Behind an Itch-Free Yard?

Our trained technician will treat your yard with an effective barrier spray that eliminates biters for 21 days. Using a backpack sprayer designed for precise application, your technician targets shrubs and plants with a barrier spray that kills mosquitoes, ticks and fleas on contact and bonds to foliage, where it acts as a mosquito repellent for weeks to come. Wait a short 30 minutes before allowing your children and pets back outside to play!

Sensitive when it comes to your vegetation, ponds and flowerbeds? We’ve got you covered with our all-natural mosquito control treatment. As an alternative to our longer-lasting synthetic treatment, Mosquito Joe offers an all-natural mosquito pest control solution. Also administered through a barrier spray program, our all-natural solution repels mosquitoes immediately, but has less adhesive properties than our synthetic spray. Because of this, the all-natural solution will act as a repellent to deter new mosquitoes for a shorter time period and requires spraying on a 14-day cycle to ensure adequate protection.

“It actually works!! I was skeptical at first. The mosquitoes are so bad here, but not since we’ve had this service. My neighbors also signed up because they noticed that we had no mosquitoes.”

-Lisa R.

That’s a Wrap!

Being a Mosquito Joe technician can be a challenging job, working in harsh conditions with heavy equipment, but it’s very rewarding. Mosquito, tick and flea control is a necessary service and identifying and solving the unique problem areas in each individual yard can graciously improve our customers’ quality of life. Having the ability to give you and your family your yard back is an incredible feeling, and our technicians show up each and every day to do just that.

“Mosquito Joe delivered exactly what they promised. My family and I can actually enjoy our yard and pool area comfortably.”

-Emanuel L.

Is your outside keeping you inside? Contact your local Mosquito Joe today to schedule service for the 2019 season!

“For 8 years we have been battling the mosquito. We have stayed in many beautiful evenings because of the pests. For the first time this year, after one application by Mosquito Joe, we have enjoyed every night this summer sitting on our deck. What a great service!”

Dave F.

Whether spring is ramping up or summer is winding down, there are many ways to enjoy warm weather.  One of the best ways to take advantage of sunny days and nice evenings is by having your meals in the backyard! Here at Mosquito Joe we love any excuse to get outdoors, so we wanted to share some of our favorite recipes so you and your family can get your grub on.

Burgers and Hot Dogs – All-American burgers and hot dogs are crowd-pleasers that even your pickiest eater will enjoy. Create variety in your spread with different types of cheese, toppings and condiments. Stick with a classic burger or spice things up with a Chipotle Turkey Burger. Try these bacon-wrapped hot dogs for a twist on an old favorite.

Kabobs – Get your protein and veggies all in one! These are fun to personalize and are easy for kids to assemble. Whether it’s Hawaiian Kabobs with shrimp, pineapple and bacon or Cowboy Kabobs with beef, red bell peppers and onions, there’s sure to be something for everyone.

Grilled Chicken – Marinated chicken breasts, thighs, wings and drumsticks are grilling staples. BBQ chicken packs a tangy, smoky punch while buffalo chicken wings brings the heat. A great vegetarian option is a grilled cauliflower steak.

Fish Tacos – For a taste of the islands no matter where you are in the United States, give these fish tacos topped with mango salsa a try! Cilantro lime rice and beans are the perfect side dish for the sweet and savory tacos.

Of course you’ll need something to wash all of these yummy dishes down. Watermelon lemonade is a fruity spin on a classic beverage. Sweet tea is another great option for a refreshing drink.

Don’t forget about dessert! Popsicles or a summer berry cobbler are perfect summertime sweets. For a fun, interactive dessert, try homemade no-churn ice cream! All it takes is a couple ingredients, rock salt and two zip-top bags. Kids will love being able to watch the magic (science!) behind this treat.

There’s no reason that your furry, four-legged friends can’t get in on this outdoor feast! With all of these great dishes for you and your family, your pets are sure get jealous. Whip up a batch of homemade dog treats that will get your pet’s tail wagging.

If cooking isn’t your thing, don’t worry – order takeout from a local small business! Call your favorite pizzeria, Chinese restaurant or sandwich shop and have a picnic outside.

After spending a lot of time inside, getting out in your backyard is a welcome oasis! By referring your friends and family for Mosquito Joe services, you can Share the MoJo so your favorite people can stretch their legs and get some fresh air without itching and scratching. Plus, when you refer someone you know for a Mosquito Joe treatment, that means $25 off for you and your friend. It’s easy as pie!

With all these delicious dishes, make sure that the only thing getting bitten into is your dinner. Give your local Mosquito Joe a call to schedule your treatment for an itch-free yard. Don’t let mosquitoes and ticks make a meal out of you this spring and summer!

If you are as eager to get your patriot on as we are, you don’t have much longer to wait. It’s practically celebration time! Independence Day is a federal holiday we’ve been celebrating every year since America adopted the Declaration of Independence way back in 1776.  With July quickly approaching, it’s almost time to rep’ those true colors and get rollin’ with the red, white, and blue!

Mosquito Joe vans will be out in full force in communities across the country, working to protect families from mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks during their 4th of July celebrations. But did you know that some of our Mosquito Joe service areas are also home to some of the country’s top-notch Fourth of July celebrations? Here are a few of the best:

Charleston, South Carolina

Patriots Point 4th of July Blast is one of the biggest Independence Day celebrations in the country. Watch the elaborate fireworks show while hanging out on the historic USS Yorktown’s Flight Deck. This bash is for those of you who want to party shoreside and dance to the live beach music band! Tickets do sell quickly, so if it’s already sold out, keep this in mind for next year.

Williamsburg, VA

You might expect Williamsburg to be at the top of the list, seeing as it’s one of America’s favorite historical destinations. The 4th of July Fireworks celebration lights up this 18th century city every year. Join in on some old time fun, listen to live music, admire the U.S. state flags, and end the night watching a beautiful display of fireworks.

Washington, D.C.

If you’re planning to visit or are already located in our nation’s capital for Independence Day, you would be silly to miss the numerous events planned all around D.C. to celebrate the date of America’s birth! Watch the annual Washington Nationals game; cheer for the land of the free during the Independence Day Parade; eat, shop, and dance at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival inside the National Mall; sway your hips to the Beach Boys and John Stamos at the Capitol Fourth Concert; and top it all off by watching the notable display of fireworks from the lawn of the Capitol Building.

Miami, Florida

Celebrate America’s Birthday Bash in Miami from 10am to the end of the 9:00pm fireworks at Bayfront Park. Watch your kids hang in the Family Fun Zone or take a walk through the Budweiser Beer Garden while listening to live music, playing games, and quenching your thirst with Budweiser on draft. Stay for the best fireworks in South Florida!

New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is among the country’s hottest 4th of July celebration locations. Celebrate the 4th aboard the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen, eating, party-hopping room to room, and watching the fireworks display, all while cruising along the Mississippi River. There are also concerts, food trucks, seafood fests, and more from July 3rd to July 5th. What could be better than celebrating the 4th for three days?!

Nashville, Tennessee

Honor the 4th by attending Music City’s July 4th celebration in Downtown Nashville. This year’s lineup features the popular country star, Chris Young! Enjoy water slides, food vendors, and tons of family fun during the entire week of July 4th in Nashville and you will not regret it!

St. Louis, Missouri

Fair St. Louis is an Independence Day bash that is fun for all ages, and it takes place from July 2nd-July 4th in Forest Park. There are local artists and merchandise vendors to check out on The Fairway, rides and interactive activities for families, live performances of 3 Doors Down, Akon, Dan & Shay, Jake Owen, etc., parades, and a nationally recognized fireworks show. This one sounds tough to beat!

While these are some of the biggest Independence Day celebrations in the country, we know many of you will be staying local to host parties and cookouts in your own backyard. If that’s the case, be sure to protect your party and your guests from pesky (and potentially dangerous) mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks. Keep the focus on the hot dogs, s’mores, and sparklers and let us take care of the swatting. Give your local Mosquito Joe a call for a free quote and to get on the schedule today!

The Fourth of July, one of America’s most beloved holidays, means the summer season is in full swing.  Warm weather, cookouts, fireworks, and families gathered together can make for the perfect day.  Not to mention, there’s no pressure to get anyone a gift, which makes it even better!  Wherever you live, chances are your community has a much-loved Independence Day tradition, whether it’s a parade down Main Street, a neighborhood barbecue, or a great fireworks display at night.  But a variety of reasons could take you out of town this year, which means missing some of your hometown Fourth of July charm.  Although you’ll probably find patriotic festivities at every turn, if you are lucky enough to be in these cities, you’ll be privy to some of the largest and most spectacular fireworks displays and celebrations in the country.

1. Washington D.C. – It’s no surprise that the nation’s capital makes this list!  Hundreds of thousands of people fill the National Mall every July for the 17.5 minute show that can be seen from miles away.  The day leading up to the display is action-packed as well with a parade, United States Army Band concert, and Capitol Fourth concert.  Guests can also arrive hours early to visit the surrounding monuments.
2. New York City– Macy’s 4th of July fireworks are the largest display in the country.  Lasting for over 25 minutes and attracting millions of attendees, these pyrotechnics boast over 50,000 effects.  This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Macy’s show and will be accompanied by a two-hour television special with guests such as Kenny Chesney and Meghan Trainor.
3. Boston, Massachusetts – The Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular gets national attention as well as one of the most extravagant in the country.  Pre-luded during the day by publicly televised countdown and concert, the fireworks display lasts over 20 minutes and can be seen from anywhere along the Charles River.  This year’s performers are Demi Lovato and Nick Jonas along with the Boston Pops.
4. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Considered the birthplace of America, Philadelphia boasts one of the largest 4th of July celebrations with its annual Wawa Welcome America event.  And don’t worry if you can’t make it on July 4th.  This celebration lasts all week long, this year from June 27 to July 4.  It includes special museum exhibits, fun runs and 5k races, outdoor movies, concerts, and ends with the fireworks display along Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
5. Addison, Texas – Independence Day is all about celebrating the underdog, right?  So, we’ll close out the list with a small town in Texas about 20 minutes north of Dallas: Addison’s Kaboom Town!  The event takes place every July 3 from 5pm to midnight in Addison Circle Park.  The day is filled with music and food along with the Addison Air Show.  The town of only 15,000 attracts over 500,000 visitors for the event, and the American Pyrotechnics Association has even dubbed it one of the best displays in the U.S.

Whether you’re staying at home or traveling elsewhere, we wish everyone a very happy Fourth of July!  You can check out more spectacular fireworks displays here.  Be sure to share your holiday pictures with us on Facebook (@mosquitojoe), and tell us how you celebrated.  And if you’re the lucky one hosting an Independence Day bash, don’t forget to call your local Mosquito Joe to make sure your yard and your guests are protected against mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks during the festivities.