Are you planning a birthday party for a family member or friend who is on the upward side of 21 . . . or even 50? If so, then you might be looking for a fun and at least semi-original theme for your get together. These themes work for big and small events and span the age groups. I only included a few ideas, as I personally find that large lists become too cumbersome. I threw in a few links to blog posts and shopping ideas for invitations and party supplies as well, but you can find many more on Pinterest or via Google searching. Enjoy.
FIESTA
I am putting one of my favorites for summer at the top. Think vibrant colors, paper flowers and flags, confetti and balloons. Loads of decorations are available on Amazon. These paper plates fit the theme without being over the top. One of the best parts is that you can keep the food casual with a taco bar and a batch of margaritas or sangria. To get started, take a look at Pink Peppermint Design for even more photos and inspiration.
DISCO
The 1970s are having a moment. A groovy disco party gives your guests a chance to browse thrift stores for creative outfits, and the music possibilities are endless. Decorate with disco balls, of course. You can add edible glitter to your signature cocktail, and try retro food like fondu and cocktail meatballs. To get started, buy your invitations and then visit Good Party Ideas.
SPA
Celebrate by rejuvenating in the comfort of your home. Ask your friends to bring what ever items you are not providing (robes and slippers, for example) and buy the supplies you can afford. Create a Zen-like environment with pastels, white ceramics, and smooth pebbles. Dim the lights and fill the space with spa candles. Don’t forget a calming playlist and stocked tea station with light spa snacks. Either create DIY treatments, such as facials and manicures, or bring in a professional who provides in-home services.
PARISIAN CAFE
I really like this theme for an afternoon party, because, frankly, there is nothing better than spending a few hours sipping café au lait at a French sidewalk café. This invitation sets the theme. Serve the aforementioned coffee, tea, champagne, macarons, croissants, French cheeses, crêpes, and tarts. Decorate with black and white awnings. Have your TVs playing old movies set in Paris with the volume low or completely off, and play French music.
MIDCENTURY COCKTAILS
I live in a midcentury-modern house (see my home’s Instagram page for more on that) so this idea is especially appealing. Start with a mod invitation and then get to work on planning the perfect cocktail bar. If you need ideas, I really like this guide from Hammer and a Headband. Encourage your guests to dress up in 1960s cocktail attire. Oh, and don’t forget to put out ashtrays filled with pretzel “cigarettes.”
MURDER MYSTERY
Choose a mystery theme and assign your guests characters to play. Plan beverages and food to match the setting for the theme. Everyone will love guessing who is guilty and practicing their acting skills. For more ideas see this post from Fun Party Pop.
SLUMBER PARTY
Who says that kids get all the fun? Whether or not your guests stay the night, you can bring back all the fun of slumber parties with an evening filled with movies, popcorn, candy, and pizza. The attire is pajamas, of course.
GEN X
There are a lot of ways you can go with this theme, but my personal favorite is a 1980s party to celebrate the decade when Generation X was fighting for its right to party. Decorate with neon and prepare an eighties music playlist. Your guests can shop thrift stores or even their own closet for their attire. For food put out French onion dip, potato skins, pizza rolls, and dirt cake. If you need an activity, set up tables where guests can make friendship pins and bracelets.
CRAFTS
Do you have an artistic side? Get your friends together for a night of crafting. Set up tables with supplies and have one person lead the group in creating something fun and unique. Light snacks go best with this theme, as you will have enough to clean up once the guests leave.
WINE AND CHEESE
You cannot go wrong with a simple wine and cheese birthday party. The menu is obvious and you can go as expensive as you wish. I personally think that Trader Joe’s has great cheeses that are not too expensive. I love this invitation featuring a bottle of rosé. You can keep decorations simple, but if you want to spurge, try these custom napkins. For tips on presentation, see this post from Savoring Today.
