When we were expecting our first child, my friend asked if she could host a co-ed baby shower. I didn’t think I’d be able to convince my husband to participate in a girly morning of mimosas and brunch. But, when my friend told me she wanted to plan a baseball themed cookout, I knew my husband wouldn’t be able to stay away. We had a fabulous afternoon filled with our closest friends, burgers and dogs, cornhole, and lots of baseball themed decorations and games. (See theme #3 below for photos of our fun day!)

Over the past decade, the traditional idea of a baby shower has evolved significantly. More dads have taken an active role in parenting and they also want to be part of the celebrating! Co-ed baby showers are also a wonderful way to include siblings, grandparents, uncles and other family members and special friends that wouldn’t be included in a traditional “ladies only” shower. You do have to adjust your event to accommodate the guys so be sure to choose a theme that’s not too frilly and serve a hearty meal. (Beer helps too!) Without further ado, here are our favorite themes for your next co-ed baby shower!

Our Favorite Co-ed Baby Shower Themes

 1. Vintage County Fair

This Vintage County Fair may be one of the cutest themes I’ve ever seen. It’s great for a co-ed gathering- especially if children are also invited. Serve good old fashioned fair food that everyone loves such as chicken, corn dogs, pie, popcorn, pickles and more! The options are endless and oh so delicious.

2. Luau Theme

Set out a basket of leis, light some tiki torches, and arrange a few pineapple centerpieces and you’ve got a Hawaaiin baby shower theme that is sure to please the guys and girls on your guest list. This is also a fun theme to include the whole family! Check out some of these tropical menus and recipes for yummy food inspiration.

3. Little All-Star Theme

Celebrate the parents and their new recruit by serving ballpark fare such as hot dogs, nachos, wings, popcorn, peanuts and beer. You could center your event around the parent’s favorite team or sport. The photos above are from my own “Lil Slugger” shower that friends hosted when we were expecting our first child.

4. Tacos and Tequila

Nothing says, “let’s party” quite like tacos and margaritas, am I right? Add in brightly colored decorations and some lively music and you’ll have a fantastic fiesta that won’t be forgotten anytime soon! For tips on making a taco bar as well as free printables, head over to the Wedding Chicks blog.

5. Burgers, Beer and Baby Talk

Every male guest will RSVP “yes!” when they see this invitation. Heat up the grill and pop open a cold one for a casual event with friends. Take your burgers to the next level by offering an expansive burger bar like the one pictured above!

6. Dr. Seuss or Children’s Book Theme

A children’s book themed shower is an excellent choice for the parents-to-be that love to read or learn. In place of a card, ask guests to bring their favorite children’s book. This will get the baby bookworm’s library off to a great start!

7. Lumberjack (or Jill!)

This is a fantastic theme whether the parents-to-be are expecting a little Lumberjack or Lumberjill. The woodsy, rustic décor paired with the bold red and black plaid will make for a warm and cozy gathering with friends and family. Printables like the ones pictured above are available here.

8. Baby-Q

Serve up delicious favorites such as BBQ chicken, smoked brisket, or pulled pork accompanied by all the yummy sides. Adorn the gathering with gingham, burlap and sunflowers for easy, breezy decor.

9. Nautical Theme

A new first mate is joining the crew and it’s time to celebrate! Check out our blog “All Aboard for a Nautical Baby Shower” for some fantastic seafaring ideas for your event!

10. You Are My Sunshine

This classic children’s song makes an adorable theme for a co-ed baby shower and it’s perfect for a warm summer evening or to brighten up a cold winter day. We love that a crib is being used as the dessert table at this shower from Catch My Party. The yellow and gray color scheme is especially great if the parents-to-be are waiting to find out if their little sunshine is a boy or a girl.

11. Football Tailgate Shower            

For the couple who loves to tailgate with friends before the big game, a football theme shower is the perfect setting to celebrate the arrival of your little kicker. Chili is a simple and delicious crowd-pleasing comfort food; set up a self-serve station with all the toppings (my favorites are cheese and Fritos!). The men (and women) will feel perfectly at ease with a bowl of chili, a cold drink, and a few fun shower games.

12. Seafood Boil

How about the Southern version of a backyard bash? Gather around a steamed, Old Bay-seasoned pile of crawfish, shrimp, corn and potatoes with your closest family and friends. String up some lights and set out a game of corn hole. Make a pitcher of sweet lemonade and maybe get that firepit going with some s’mores kits nearby.

Still looking for more co-ed baby shower inspiration?

Head to our Pinterest board more for lots of great ideas. And be sure to refer your guests to RegistryFinder.com where they can find all of mom and dad’s baby registries in one place!