4. 1920s party ideas
If there’s one thing the roaring 20s knew how to do right, it was throwing an epic party! With these 1920s-decade party ideas, you can sip your favorite bootlegged drink and show off your Charleston moves.
The theme: Prohibition Ball, Great Gatsby, Silent Movies
The venue: A secret underground speakeasy in Los Angeles, CA can help you set the stage for your roaring 20s soiree. The venue boasts vintage leather seats, vintage tiles, a secret entrance, and A/V equipment for enhancing the space and your party.
The costumes: Flapper attire can help you and your guests dress the part.
The food: Chinese food was popular in the 1920s, giving you a great excuse to snack on eggrolls and potstickers.
The music: Swing and Jazz all night long!
5. 1930s party ideas
The 1930s marked the beginning of Hollywood’s golden age, with classics like The Wizard of Oz and Dracula making their debut. That makes it an awesome era to inspire an old Hollywood event!
The theme: Old Hollywood, Vintage Jazz, Classic Horror
The venue: A vintage 1930s Spanish home could bring history to life for your guests. This gorgeous La Mesa outdoor space brims with mature landscaping, a sparkling pool, and water fountains to set a very sweet and retro scene.
The costumes: Puffed sleeves and slinky evening gowns were in style. And a fedora and well-tailored suit is a good look for any era.
The food: Oysters Rockefeller was a vintage foodie snack.
The music: Swingin’Swing music, of course.
6. 1940s party ideas
The “swing era” continued the golden age in Hollywood with stars like Vincent Price and Elizabeth Taylor on the screen. Plus, the vintage fashion was beautifully tailored and sleek, making it a great era for costume inspo.
The theme: Old Hollywood, Patriotic Stars and Stripes
The venue: Try a renovated 40s-era church turned event space! This Buford, GA building has space for 140 guests, stained-glass windows, original hardwood floors, and a speakeasy-like bar and lounge.
The costumes: This is one of the best decades party ideas for wearing a glamorous evening gown or an ascot!
The food: Anything “deviled” was popular in the 40s, like eggs or ham. Oh, and gelatin molds!
The music: Jazz, Blues, & Swing
7. 1950s party ideas
The era of rock n’ roll and mid-century style, the 50s can definitely give you plenty of retro party inspiration!
The theme: Sock Hop, Grease, Black & White, Rock & Roll
The venue: How about a retro diner in the heart of San Francisco, CA, with pastel colors and floor-to-ceiling windows? Come for the ambiance, stay for the food!
The costumes: Poodle skirts and leather jackets!
The food: Any kind of casserole or loaf-style dish.
The music: Rock n’ roll, baby.
8. 1960s party ideas
The swinging 60s were an era of bright color and psychedelic music. They also saw the birth of popular franchises like Star Trek, giving you plenty of iconic pop culture to theme your party around.
The theme: Hippie, Star Trek, Color Pop
The venue: A retro loft can give you a pop of color! This Los Angeles-based loft boasts 60s decor as far as the eye can see
The costumes: Mod & hippie inspired fashions. And beehive hair!
The food: French food was trendy, thanks to Julia Child.
The music: Psychedelic music or Motown soul.
9. 1970s party ideas
The grooviest decade of all, a 70s-themed party is an awesome excuse to put on your widest flare plants and dance the night away.
The theme: Disco all the way, baby!
The venue: A colorful dance club could give your 70s decade party a far-out vibe. This fully-equipped Dunellen, NJ venue has all the style and amenities you need to bring your decades party ideas to life.
The costumes: Bell bottoms, flare sleeve dresses, and platform shoes are all appropriate.
The food: Fondue was a trendy party food in the 70s.
The music: Disco staples likethe Bee Gees or KC and the Sunshine Band.
10. 1980s party ideas
An era of big hair and bigger musical icons, the 1980s are one of the most fun decades for a themed party! Headbang to your favorite 80s jams, or watch classic movies like Indiana Jones or The Breakfast Club.
The theme: Metal Music, Big Hair, Vintage Arcade, Stranger Things.
The venue: A retro arcade can give you a nostalgic rush. Not only that, but this Lombard, IL venue has its games set to free play, which means endless gaming fun.
The costumes: Big, HUGE hair. And anything neon.
The food: Potato skins and dips were common party food.
The music: Bruce Springsteen, Whitney Houston, Kate Bush, or whoever else you love.
Next, follow our guide to throwing an impeccable retro wedding!
