Move Over, Giant Pool Floats… This Summer’s Hottest Must-Have Doesn’t Require a Pool

Last year, we introduced you to the height of #extra entertaining: the giant pool float. Maybe it was hubris, but we were 100 percent certain that no oversized inflatable thing could ever rival the neon glory that was a 10-foot pink flamingo party raft complete with cupholders. How wrong we were. We quickly realized our mistake when we first laid eyes on what’s sure to be this summer’s smash-hit for backyard entertaining: the 6-foot-tall unicorn sprinkler inflatable from Target’s Sun Squad collection.

Where to begin? These irresistible, enormous inflatables hook up to your garden hose to become the centerpiece of any party, spraying refreshing bursts of water over your guests (in the case of the unicorn, directly from its magical silver horn). Unlike the status symbol pool floats of yore, you don’t need a pool to enjoy this infinitely ‘grammable new toy, making it a perfect pick for city-dwellers or those without much outdoor space. Just turn on the outdoor tap and let ‘er rip.

Choose from the aforementioned unicorn, a rainbow tunnel (we pity the six-year-old girl who has to contend with deciding between those two), a mischievous-looking T-Rex, or a purple gorilla. (Why a purple gorilla? We honestly couldn’t say.) No matter which one you pick, we’re certain that having one of these in your backyard will fast-track you to Instagram fame — and solidify your position as Best Hostess Ever for the rest of the summer.

While these are obviously a shoo-in for kids’ parties — we think the T-Rex and this even-taller Dino from PBkids would make for an awesome Jurassic Park setup — they’re pretty tempting for adults too. Picture yourself lounging beneath the rainbow tunnel, gentle mist cooling you and your pals, margs in hand. Sounds like a memorable summer to us. These inflatable sprinklers range from $50 to $100 and can be found at Target stores and online.

RELATED: 10 Pool Float DIYs To Keep Your Summer Going All Year Long

(Photos via Target)

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