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Dolphin Pool & Spa

One Last Splash: Hosting a Fall Farewell Pool Party

Thursday, September 10, 2026

Backyard pool party in fall light

Images are AI generated and do not depict an actual pool or Dolphin Pool & Spa location.

The leaves are starting to turn. The air has that first cool edge. Before you drain the pool and cover it for winter, plan one more swim. A fall farewell party is a fun way to close out the season. Here is how to get your water ready so the last splash is the best one.

1 Pick a Warm Day Before You Close

Minnesota weather turns fast in September. Watch the ten-day forecast and pick a day with an air temperature above 70 degrees. Aim for a weekend, at least a week before your planned closing date. That gives you time to close the pool right after the party, while the water is still in good shape.

2 Test and Balance the Water First

Before you invite anyone over, test your water. You want a pH between 7.4–7.6 and total alkalinity between 80–120 ppm. If either number is off, fix it before the party, not during it.

Stop in for a water test. It's $7, or included when you buy $50 or more in BioGuard chemicals. If you need to adjust pH or alkalinity, BioGuard Balance Pak 200 raises pH and Balance Pak 100 raises alkalinity. Most pool chemicals can take up to four hours between doses. BioGuard chemicals only need 15 minutes between doses. That means you can balance your water the same day as your party, with time to spare.

3 Give the Pool a Fresh Shock

A crowd in the water uses up chlorine fast. Sunscreen, sweat, and body oils all pull chlorine away from doing its job. Shock the pool a day or two before the party so it has time to work.

BioGuard Smart Shock and Shock Complete dissolve fast, in 15 minutes, meaning that your pool gets cleaner quicker. Shock Complete also adds a clarifier, so your water looks bright and clear for photos.

4 Set Up for Fun, Not Fuss

Before the Party

  • Test pH and alkalinity
  • Shock the pool 24–48 hours ahead
  • Check the filter basket and skim leaves
  • Stock towels and floats

Day of the Party

  • Skim the surface once more
  • Keep food and drinks off the deck edge
  • Assign a water watcher
  • Take a few photos before you cover up for the year

Heads up: a full pool of swimmers raises bather load fast. If you're hosting more than a few families, test your water again the morning after the party. A quick check now saves a bigger fix later.

5 Start Your Closing Countdown

Once the party winds down, closing prep starts. Our full closing series kicks off soon, starting with how to know exactly when to close your pool in Minnesota. Watch for that post, and enjoy your last splash of the season.

Need a water test before your last splash of the year, or want a hand picking the right BioGuard products? Stop by our Plymouth store at 3405 Hwy 169 N — we make pool ownership a joy!

Call Us Now — 763-542-9000

Your Happy Dolphin Pool & Spa Team