If you're looking for a great way to end any type of special event or party, you can't go wrong with milkshakes. Guests of all ages will enjoy creating their own shakes and then mixing and mingling with other party-goers as they sip their sweet treats. Although milkshakes are commonly seen as kids' desserts, they can be decidedly grown-up with the right mix-ins. If the event features both children and adults, be sure to provide shake ingredients that will appeal to every age group. 

Here are some milkshake ideas for your next special event: 

Fruity Shakes 

Ideal for tropical-themed special occasions, such as beach-inspired wedding receptions, fruity milkshakes also makes refreshing desserts during the warm spring and summer months. While fresh fruit makes delicious drinks, you can also use canned or frozen varieties as well. 

You can mix almost any type of fruit into either vanilla or chocolate ice cream, depending on your preference. Set up a do-it-yourself milkshake bar and provide guests with plenty of pineapples, mango, strawberries, blueberries and raspberries, bananas and other complementary mix-ins.

For a taste of the islands, blend up a combination of pineapple, mango, papaya, and vanilla ice cream, and then top with toasted coconut shreds. As a more nutritious, filing options for younger guests, blend together vanilla or chocolate ice cream, banana, and peanut or almond butter. 

Decadent Shakes 

Appeal to the adults in the group with rich milkshakes filled with decadent ingredients. Start with high-quality ice cream, and then provide plenty of gourmet add-ins so that party-goers can create customized frozen treats.

On a buffet-style table, set up individual bowls of dark and milk chocolate chips, chocolate-covered espresso beans and dried cherries, cookie dough, brownie bites and mint truffles. Include toppings such as caramel sauce, hot fudge, whipped cream, coconut shreds, and chocolate shavings.

As a rich, mouthwatering dessert of guests of any age, provide everything needed, including chocolate chips, graham crackers, and fluffy marshmallow sauce, to make s'mores shakes. These concoctions are especially ideal for summertime events. 

These are just a few fun ideas to try. Depending on the large your party is, you may need to provide several milkshake machines, which are appliances designed to mix up smooth, creamy frozen drinks. You can find machines featuring small cups to make individual drinks, or big pitchers to whip up several shakes at once. For information about milkshake machines, contact services such as DSL Northwest, Inc.