31 Potluck Themes to do in August

Looking for exciting potluck themes to spice up your gatherings in August? From Hawaiian luau feasts to rock ‘n’ roll celebrations, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to dive into mouthwatering dishes inspired by iconic events, influential figures, and delightful flavors.

Whether you’re a fan of books, beach days, or aviation, there’s a potluck theme to suit every taste. So, grab your apron and get ready to impress your friends and colleagues with these creative and delicious potluck ideas.

What potluck themes to do in August?

Potluck themes bring people together, spark creativity, and add excitement to any gathering. They offer a chance to try new ideas, spruce up work potlucks, and create memorable experiences. So here is our list of August Potluck Themes!

August 1st – Colorado Day: Colorado Wild West BBQ

Celebrate Colorado Day with a Western-themed potluck featuring delicious barbecue dishes, such as smoked brisket, cowboy beans, cornbread, and grilled corn on the cob.

August 2nd – National Coloring Book Day: Colorful Culinary Canvas

Celebrate National Coloring Book Day with a fun and interactive potluck theme. Each guest draws a color and brings a dish that corresponds to that color. From red tomato bruschetta to green guacamole and purple eggplant parmesan, the potluck will be a colorful feast. Let the color party begin!

August 3rd – National Watermelon Day: Melon Mania Fiesta

Celebrate National Watermelon Day with a tropical-themed potluck filled with watermelon-inspired dishes. Participants can bring dishes like watermelon feta salad, watermelon gazpacho, and watermelon margaritas.

August 4th – National Coast Guard Day: Coast Guard Seafood Extravaganza

Honor National Coast Guard Day with a potluck featuring an array of seafood dishes. Participants can bring dishes like seafood paella, grilled shrimp skewers, and New England clam chowder.

August 5th – Marilyn Monroe: Hollywood Glamour Soiree

Commemorate Marilyn Monroe with a glamorous potluck evoking the golden age of Hollywood. Participants can bring dishes like mini beef wellingtons, shrimp cocktail, and strawberry shortcake.

August 6th – National Fresh Breath Day: Minty Fresh Delights

Embrace National Fresh Breath Day with a potluck featuring dishes and beverages that incorporate mint. Participants can bring dishes like minty lamb meatballs, fresh mint cucumber salad, and mint chocolate chip ice cream.

August 7th – National Purple Heart Day: Purple Heart Heroes

Celebrate National Purple Heart Day with a potluck dedicated to all things purple. Participants can bring dishes that feature various shades of purple, such as lavender-infused lemonade, roasted beet and goat cheese salad, purple sweet potato fries, and a purple velvet cake. Let the purple hues take center stage in this vibrant and flavorful potluck.

August 8th – National CBD Day: CBD Infusion Fiesta

Celebrate National CBD Day with a potluck centered around CBD-infused dishes and beverages. Participants can bring CBD-infused cocktails, CBD-infused chocolates, and CBD-infused salads with hemp seeds.

August 9th – National Book Lovers Day: Literary Feast

Immerse yourself in the literary world with a potluck theme that celebrates foods mentioned in books. Each participant can bring a dish inspired by a favorite book, incorporating a food mentioned within its pages. For a child-friendly twist, guests can bring a children’s book that mentions a food corresponding to the dish they bring. Imagine savoring “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” chocolate truffles, “Winnie the Pooh” honey-glazed ham, or “The Hobbit” seed cake.

To make it even more meaningful, combine the potluck with a book drive at work, where all children’s books brought will be donated to a local library, promoting the joy of reading and making a positive impact in the community.

August 10th – National S’mores Day: S’mores Galore

Celebrate National S’mores Day with a potluck theme that transports us to the great outdoors. Participants can bring foods reminiscent of camping adventures. Think classic favorites like grilled burgers, hot dogs with all the fixings, savory campfire chili, charred corn on the cob, and potato salad. Don’t forget to include some camping-inspired treats like foil-wrapped grilled vegetables, campfire baked beans, and homemade trail mix. Let the flavors of the outdoors come alive as we indulge in and savor the essence of a camping experience right at the potluck.

August 11th – Steve Wozniak: Apple Orchard Harvest

Pay tribute to Steve Wozniak and his co-founding of Apple Inc. with an apple-themed potluck. Participants can bring an array of both sweet and savory apple dishes to celebrate the bounties of an apple orchard. Imagine enjoying classics like apple pie and caramel apple dip with sliced apples, but also savoring savory delights such as apple-stuffed pork loin, apple and cheddar salad, and apple and brie crostini. Quench your thirst with refreshing apple cider sangria or homemade spiced apple tea. Let the flavors of apples in both sweet and savory creations take center stage, honoring the tech pioneer and embracing the essence of an apple orchard harvest.

August 12th – National Vinyl Record Day: Retro Vinyl Vibes

Celebrate National Vinyl Record Day with a potluck inspired by the nostalgia of vinyl records. Set the tone with retro-inspired cocktails like the Old Fashioned or the Martini, transporting guests back to the golden era of music. Participants can bring 1960s-inspired finger foods such as mini sliders, deviled eggs, and cheese and pineapple skewers. For a sweet treat, indulge in vintage-style desserts like a classic pineapple upside-down cake, classic Jell-o mold desserts, or a velvety chocolate mousse served in elegant martini glasses. Let the tunes of the past accompany the flavors of the present as we groove through the vinyl vibes of this delightful potluck.

August 13th – National Spirit Of ’45 Day: Patriotic Celebration

Commemorate National Spirit Of ’45 Day with a nostalgic potluck featuring dishes that were popular in the 1940s. Participants can bring classic recipes that evoke the flavors of that era. Picture savory dishes like beef stew with root vegetables, creamy chicken pot pie, or a comforting tuna casserole. Sides can include buttered corn on the cob, Waldorf salad, or mashed potatoes with gravy. For a sweet finish, indulge in desserts such as a pineapple upside-down cake, rich chocolate pudding, or homemade apple pie. Let the taste of these 1940s favorites transport you back in time as we bid farewell to the era with a delicious and heartfelt feast

August 14th – National Creamsicle Day: Creamy Dreams

Celebrate National Creamsicle Day with a vibrant and fruity potluck theme. Participants are invited to bring any dish, sweet or savory, that incorporates one of the flavors from the available Creamsicle options: Blueberry, Orange, Blue Raspberry, Cherry, Grape, or Lime. Let your culinary creativity shine as you explore the possibilities. Guests can bring Blueberry and Lemon Scones, Orange Glazed Chicken Skewers, Blue Raspberry Salad with Feta Cheese, Cherry BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders, Grape and Brie Crostini, or Lime Shrimp Tacos. Delight in the array of fruity flavors as you indulge in this colorful and delicious potluck celebration.

August 15th – National Relaxation Day: Zen Retreat

Celebrate National Relaxation Day with a potluck focused on soothing and relaxing foods. Participants can bring dishes like cucumber and avocado sushi rolls, herbal teas, and lavender-infused desserts.

August 16th – Elvis Presley: Rock ‘n’ Roll Feast

Get all shook up on August 16th as we pay tribute to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Elvis Presley, with a potluck inspired by Elvis Presley’s legendary tastes. Channel your inner Elvis as participants bring forth a feast fit for a rock ‘n’ roll legend. Dive into the decadence of fried peanut butter and banana sandwiches, a favorite indulgence of Elvis himself. Experience the smoky flavors of Memphis-style barbecue ribs, slow-cooked to perfection. And satisfy your hunger with Hound Dog hot dogs loaded with all the fixings. Let the spirit of Elvis’s music fill the air as you savor these rockin’ dishes and pay homage to a true musical icon.

August 17th – Black Cat Appreciation Day: Feline Fiesta

Celebrate Black Cat Appreciation Day with a potluck dedicated to our feline friends. Participants can bring naturally black foods in dishes like black bean and corn salsa, blackened catfish, and black velvet cupcakes.

August 18th – Hawaiian Statehood Day: Tropical Paradise Luau

Celebrate Hawaiian Statehood Day with a vibrant and lively luau-inspired potluck. Immerse yourself in the spirit of Hawaii as participants bring an array of delectable dishes that showcase the tropical flavors of the islands. Indulge in Hawaiian poke bowls bursting with fresh seafood, savor the smoky goodness of kalua pork sliders, and delight in the tropical sweetness of pineapple upside-down cake. Transform the venue into a tropical paradise with colorful leis, tiki torches, and Hawaiian music. Let the warmth and aloha spirit of Hawaii fill the air as you gather together to honor this special day.

August 19th – National Aviation Day: Sky High Delights

Take flight on National Aviation Day with a potluck inspired by the wonders of the sky. Let your taste buds soar as participants bring an array of culinary creations that pay homage to the world of aviation. Enjoy “mile high” sandwiches stacked with layers of flavorful fillings, indulge in whimsical airplane-shaped sugar cookies that capture the imagination, and savor the fluffy sweetness of cloud-inspired cotton candy. Transform the venue into a mini airport with playful decorations like paper airplanes and aviation-themed centerpieces. Elevate the celebration with aviation trivia and stories, and let the spirit of adventure and innovation fill the air as you embark on this culinary journey through the skies.

August 20th – National Radio Day: Retro Radio Revival

Celebrate National Radio Day with a potluck that pays homage to the nostalgic era of radio. Participants can bring dishes inspired by vintage songs, allowing the flavors to harmonize with the melodies. Picture savoring “Blueberry Hill” blueberry pancakes, “Sweet Caroline” BBQ ribs, or “Sugar, Sugar” honey-glazed chicken wings. Indulge in “Brown Eyed Girl” chocolate brownies, “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” grape salad, or “Love Me Tender” pulled pork sliders. Let the melodies of the past guide your culinary creations as you gather together to revive the essence of retro radio and enjoy the delicious offerings of this potluck celebration.

August 21st – National Senior Citizens Day: Timeless Tastes Potluck

Embrace the spirit of National Senior Citizens Day with a potluck celebrating the enduring appeal of favorite dishes that have stood the test of time. Join together to honor our elderly loved ones by bringing comforting dishes that evoke memories of shared meals and simpler times. Participants can contribute their all-time classic recipes like chicken pot pie, meatloaf, mashed potatoes, apple pie, or other beloved comfort foods. Let’s savor the flavors of nostalgia and create new memories while paying tribute to the timeless tastes that have brought joy to generations.

August 22nd – National Bao Day: Asian Delights Potluck

Immerse yourself in the flavors of Asia on National Bao Day with an Asian-inspired potluck feast. Participants can bring a wide variety of dishes from different Asian cuisines, celebrating the rich culinary traditions of the continent. Some examples include savory delights like sushi rolls, Thai green curry, Korean bibimbap, Vietnamese spring rolls, Chinese dumplings, and Indian butter chicken. Indulge in the vibrant and diverse flavors of Asia as you share the joys of this multicultural potluck experience.

August 23rd – Kobe Bryant: Hoops & Flavors

Celebrate the legacy of Kobe Bryant with a potluck inspired by the world of basketball. Create dishes that reflect the essence of a basketball, with circular shapes, vibrant orange colors, airy textures, and perhaps even black lines as accents. Participants can bring delicious creations like orange-glazed meatballs, cheesy basketball-shaped bread rolls, crispy sweet potato “basketball” fries, and fruity “slam dunk” smoothies. Let the flavors and presentation pay tribute to the game we love while honoring the indomitable spirit of Kobe Bryant.

August 24th – National Waffle Day: Waffle Wonderland

Elevate the celebration of National Waffle Day with a dynamic potluck featuring a build-your-own waffle bar. Participants can bring their favorite waffle batter and an array of delicious toppings and flavors, both sweet and savory. Let the creativity flow as guests customize their waffles with choices like fresh berries, whipped cream, chocolate sauce, maple syrup, Nutella, peanut butter, bacon, scrambled eggs, cheese, and more. With endless combinations and the freedom to explore various taste profiles, this interactive waffle experience will delight everyone’s palate and create a memorable potluck gathering.

August 25th – National Kiss And Make Up Day: Sweet Reconciliation

Mark National Kiss And Make Up Day with a potluck dedicated to dishes that bring comfort and solace after a breakup. Participants can bring dishes known for their soothing qualities, such as chicken noodle soup, mac and cheese, warm chocolate lava cake, and a variety of indulgent ice cream flavors. Each dish serves as a reminder that food can provide solace during difficult times, offering a sense of nourishment and healing. Come together to share stories, laughter, and delicious fare as we support one another on this day of reconciliation and renewal.

August 26th – International Bat Nights: Night Creatures Delight

Celebrate the allure of the night and the enchantment of darkness with a potluck inspired by nighttime flavors and mysterious dishes. Participants can bring creations that embody the essence of the night, featuring rich, deep flavors and unique ingredients. Think of dishes like black sesame seed-crusted salmon, charred eggplant dip, squid ink pasta, and blackberry lavender tart. Delve into the realm of darkness and let your culinary imagination shine as you explore the flavors and intrigue of the night.

August 27th – National Just Because Day: Surprising Flavor Fusions

Celebrate National Just Because Day with a potluck that embraces unexpected flavor combinations and delightful surprises. Participants are encouraged to bring dishes that fuse unlikely ingredients, creating unique and unforgettable culinary experiences. Let your taste buds embark on a culinary adventure with dishes like pineapple jalapeno salsa, chocolate-covered bacon, strawberry-balsamic bruschetta, or spicy watermelon gazpacho. Be bold, experimental, and imaginative as you combine flavors that will leave everyone pleasantly surprised. This potluck is an opportunity to showcase your creativity and take culinary risks, all in the spirit of spontaneity and fun. Let the unexpected flavor fusions reign supreme on this Just Because Day celebration.

August 28th – National Bow Tie Day: Dapper Bow Tie Soirée

Celebrate National Bow Tie Day with an elegant and stylish potluck. Dress up in your finest attire and bring sophisticated dishes like smoked salmon tea sandwiches, prosciutto-wrapped asparagus, bacon-wrapped dates with goat cheese, and mini quiches with gourmet fillings. Indulge in delicate desserts like mini éclairs, macarons, or chocolate-dipped strawberries. Let the flavors and presentation embody dapper sophistication as you enjoy these delights with fellow bow tie enthusiasts.

August 29th – International Day Against Nuclear Tests: Survival Cuisine

On International Day Against Nuclear Tests, commemorate peace and nuclear disarmament with a survival-themed potluck. Bring dishes that reflect enduring flavors and sustainability, like canned goods, pickled vegetables, dried fruits, and staple foods such as rice, beans, and grains. Let the potluck highlight the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of global peace.

August 30th – National Beach Day: Seaside Picnic Party

Celebrate National Beach Day with a potluck inspired by beachside picnics. Set the scene with beach-themed decor like colorful beach towels, seashells, and mini umbrellas. Participants can bring dishes like refreshing seafood ceviche, tropical fruit salad, and beach-themed cupcakes. Enjoy the coastal vibes and indulge in delightful flavors as you savor the seaside picnic party.

August 31st – Princess Diana: Enchanting Tea Party

In honor of Princess Diana, host a delightful tea party potluck inspired by elegant finger foods fit for royalty. Participants can bring delicate cucumber sandwiches, delectable mini quiches, and charming tea cakes. Create a regal atmosphere with vintage tea sets, floral decorations, and soft classical music. Let the enchanting tea party transport you to a world of grace and refinement as you pay tribute to Princess Diana’s legacy.

Fun Potluck Themes to do in August

August offers a fantastic opportunity to gather with friends, family, and colleagues for delightful potluck celebrations. From whimsical themes like “Colorful Culinary Canvas” to nostalgic themes like “Literary Feast,” there are endless possibilities to ignite creativity and create memorable culinary experiences.

Whether it’s embracing the flavors of different cultures, paying tribute to historical figures, or simply enjoying the simple pleasures of favorite foods, potluck themes add a touch of excitement and camaraderie to any gathering.

So why not spice up your next potluck in August with one of these fun and engaging themes? Let the joy of food and the spirit of togetherness make this month a truly unforgettable culinary adventure.