How To Throw a Retro Themed Party: Tips & Ideas

So you want to throw a retro themed party, but you're not sure where to start? No worries, we've got you covered with some awesome tips and ideas to help you plan the ultimate Retro bash. The exact time period that is considered "retro" can vary depending on the context and the individual's perspective. For example, some people may consider the 1920s to the 1950s as retro, while others may include the 1960s and 1970s, and still others may consider the 1980s or even the 1990s as retro.

There are plenty of tips and ideas to help you plan the perfect retro-themed party. Here are our top ideas: 

Choose a Decade

First things first, you need to pick a decade to focus on. Do you love the flapper style of the 1920s, or the neon colors and big hair of the 1980s? Maybe the disco era of the 1970s is more your thing, or the peace and love of the 1960s? Whatever your preference, make sure to do some research to really capture the vibe of the decade and get your guests excited about the theme. Each decade has its own unique style, music, and culture, so it's important to do your research and choose a decade that appeals to you and your guests.

Send Out Invitations

Once you've chosen your decade, it's time to send out some rad invitations to your friends. To stay true to the retro theme, consider sending paper invitations instead of electronic ones. You can either purchase retro-inspired invitations or make your own with retro fonts and designs. Forget about boring emails, get creative and make your own invitations using retro fonts, graphics and colors. Or, if you're feeling lazy, you can always purchase some retro-inspired invitations online. Make sure to include all the party details, like the date, time, location, and any special dress code requirements.

Dress the Part

Speaking of dress code, no retro themed party is complete without some totally awesome costumes. Encourage your guests to dress up in clothing that reflects the decade you've chosen. Do you want to see your friends in flapper dresses and fedoras for your 1920s party, or bell-bottom jeans and tie-dye shirts for your 1960s bash? Or for example, for a 1950s party, guests could wear poodle skirts, leather jackets, and saddle shoes, while for a 1980s party, guests could wear neon clothing, leg warmers, and big hair. If you want to go all out, you can even hire a costume designer to help your guests look their best. Make sure to give your guests plenty of time to find their retro outfits and really get into character.

Decorate the Venue

Of course, decorations are key to creating the right atmosphere for your retro themed party. Whether it's using specific colors, patterns, or props to set the tone, make sure to go all out to transport your guests back in time. For example, for a 1920s party, you could decorate with black and gold streamers, feather boas, and vintage champagne glasses. For a 1970s party, you could use bright colors, disco balls, and lava lamps. Don't forget to include music from the era to help transport your guests back in time. For a 1950s party, you could use classic diner decorations like checkered tablecloths, retro Coca-Cola signs, and vintage/retro jukeboxes. Don't forget to play music from the era to really set the mood.

Plan the Menu

When it comes to food and drinks, you want to serve up some classic dishes or popular cocktails from the decade. A carefully chosen menu plays a big role in setting the retro vibe. For a 1950s party, you could serve up cheeseburgers, fries, and milkshakes, while for a 1970s party, you could offer up fondue, deviled eggs, and cocktails like a Harvey Wallbanger. Don't forget to decorate your table with vintage plates, glasses, and utensils to really complete the look.

Play Games and Activities

Games and activities are also a great way to keep your guests entertained at your retro themed party. For example, you could host a 1920s murder mystery party, a 1960s tie-dye party, or an 1980s karaoke contest. Offer retro-themed prizes for the winners, like retro/ vintage records or classic board games. Don't forget to offer retro-themed prizes for the winners, such as retro/vintage records or classic board games.

Hire a DJ or Band

No retro themed party is complete without great music. If you don't have a good sound system and a playlist of songs from the decade, consider hiring a DJ or live band to play music that will keep your guests on their feet all night long. Make sure to choose a DJ or band that specializes in the type of music from your chosen decade. 

Capture Memories

Last but not least, don't forget to capture all the memories from your retro themed party. Create a photo booth area with props and backdrops that reflect the era you've chosen, and encourage your guests to take lots of pictures. You can also create a scrapbook or photo album with pictures from the party, so your guests can take home a tangible reminder of the fun they had. 

Other Considerations

When planning a retro themed party, there are a few other considerations to keep in mind. For example, you may need to rent tables, chairs, and linens to accommodate your guests, and you may need to obtain a permit if you plan to serve alcohol. It's also important to set a budget and stick to it, as it's easy to get carried away with all the fun ideas for decorations, food, and activities.

So there you have it, some totally tubular tips and ideas for throwing a retro themed party. 

 Throwing a retro themed party can be a fantastic way to transport yourself and your guests back in time and celebrate the nostalgia of a bygone era. With careful planning, attention to detail, and a bit of creativity, you can create a memorable event that your guests will talk about for years to come. Whether you choose to throw a Great Gatsby party or a Back to the Future bash, remember to have fun and enjoy the retro vibe.

And if you need some help with decorations and party supplies, be sure to check out Home & Hoopla party shop. With our fantastic selection of high-quality, affordable party supplies, you can create a memorable and fun party that your guests will never forget. Remember to have fun, get creative, and let the nostalgia flow. Your guests will love the chance to travel back in time and enjoy a night of retro fun.