Save For Later!

Throwing a dress-up themed party is the perfect way to crank up the fun and make your gathering unforgettable. Starting with fun dress-up themes to build your party fun around or hunting for the coolest costume party ideas gets everyone buzzing with excitement before the party.

Costume party themes are not just for kids; even adults will get excited about brainstorming creative outfits to showcase their flair! Your guests will love the chance to step into character and bring the party to life. With the right theme, you’re guaranteed a night filled with laughter, memories, and a whole lot of fun!

A colorful collage titled "Super Fun Dress Up Party Themes for Adults" features images representing various party themes: superheroes, western cowboys, rock 'n' roll, nerds, disco, Las Vegas, hippies, Grease, Power Rangers, 70s beach party, Oktoberfest, Greece, seniors, prom night, and a retro TV.

I have gathered some fun and creative costume party themes for adults, so you will be able to find the perfect theme for your next all-adult party.

Planning An Adult Costume Themes Party Organizer

Hosting a fun and relaxing adult party theme shouldn’t be daunting. I have created a Party Planner that is designed to alleviate the stress of party planning for busy women like you. With a clear layout and comprehensive sections, it provides a step-by-step guide to help you stay organized and on track. From creating guest lists and planning menus to setting up decorations and managing timelines, our Party Planner ensures that no detail is overlooked. Spend less time worrying about the logistics and more time enjoying the company of your friends and family. Let our Party Planner be your secret weapon for hosting memorable parties effortlessly.  Here are all the pages your planner comes with! No detail will be missed. 

Picture of a computer screen a phone and an iPad all with the cover of a party planner on them six sheets of party planner printables behind the computer screen

Easy Dress Up Themes For An Adult Party

Dress-up parties are definitely not just for kids! Party dress-up themes are for adults, too. I have gathered some great ideas for adult dress-up-themed parties. Your friends and family will never forget what a great time they had at your costume party theme party.

Now, the fun part: scroll through these adult dress-up themes and find one perfect for your next party. There are outfit theme ideas, party-themed menu ideas, themed prizes, and easy decorating ideas.

Come As You Were Party

two nerdy people dressed up for a party

Characters: Your younger self from any past year, iconic figures, popular celebrities, or fashion trends from that era.

Party Ideas: Guests dress as they were in a memorable past year—high school, college, first job, etc. Decorate with throwback items from various decades, like vintage posters and old-school tech. Set up a photo wall for guests to display old photos and play music from different eras. Create a “Time Capsule” station where guests can leave notes or items representing their chosen year.

Best Costume Prizes: Retro memorabilia, Polaroid cameras, mixtape-themed items, vintage candy.

Food Ideas: Serve nostalgic snacks like 80s pizza rolls and 90s Dunkaroos. Offer retro drinks like wine coolers and neon sodas, along with era-themed cocktails. For dessert, have cupcakes with iconic symbols from different decades or a “throwback” candy bar featuring favorites like Pop Rocks and Ring Pops. Try these quick and easy Cheap Party Finger Foods Ideas.

Margaritaville Party

man and woman toasting margaritas

Characters: Beach bums, tropical tourists, Jimmy Buffett fans, islanders, laid-back surfers, Hawaiian shirt enthusiasts

Party Ideas: Transform your space into a tropical paradise with tiki torches, palm trees, leis, and colorful beach decor. Set up a “Tiki Bar” area where guests can make their own margaritas and tropical cocktails. Play Jimmy Buffett tunes like “Margaritaville” and other beachy classics to set the mood. Encourage guests to wear Hawaiian shirts, flip-flops, and sunglasses. Consider organizing a limbo contest, beach ball volleyball, or a flip-flop toss game. You could also have a photo booth with beach props like inflatable palm trees, surfboards, and giant margarita glasses.

This could be a fun outdoor party. Play Jimmy Buffet music and set up a margarita bar. Decorate like you are on the beach or Jimmy Buffet decorations.

Best Costume Prizes: Margarita glasses, Hawaiian leis, tiki mugs, beach hats, flip-flops

Food Ideas: Serve a variety of tropical-inspired foods like shrimp skewers, fish tacos, shrimp, and mango salsa with chips. Offer “Cheeseburgers in Paradise” as a nod to the famous Jimmy Buffett song. For drinks, provide a margarita bar with different flavors and mix-ins, as well as other tropical cocktails like piña coladas and daiquiris. For dessert, consider key lime pie, coconut macaroons, or tropical fruit skewers.

Western Party

cowboys in a room all pointing guns

Characters: cowboys, cowgirls, Miss Kitty, Annie Oakley, Mr. Cartwright, Hoss, Little Joe, sheriff, outlaw

Best Costume Prizes: saloon shot glass, beef jerky, toy guns, and sheriff badge

Party Ideas: Here are some costume party ideas that the guys will enjoy dressing up in. When hosting a wild west party, decorate the bar area with a saloon theme. You could also have old black and white westerns playing on the tv while you play poker. Here are some fun western party decorations.

For some food, wrestle up some grub like, my Air Fryer Baked Potatos. Top them with some Copycat Texas Roadhouse Chili or Roast Beef and Gravy. Use an old cowboy hat for serving up some snacks.

Pirates Of The Caribbean Party

man and woman in great looking pirate outfits

Characters: Captain Kidd, Black Beard, Treasure Island, Pirates of the Caribbean, Captain Hook

Best Costume Prize: gold sword, treasure chest, chocolate gold coins

Party Ideas: Decorate some coolers to look like treasure chests, fill them with ice and a favorite beverage. Choose some fun adult pirate party decor. This would be a great poolside party.

Food Ideas: Serve seafood-themed dishes such as Low Country Boil, Clam Chowder, Boiling Crab Sauce on Shrimp, or Pan seared Tilapia with Lemon Butter. Be sure to whip up a batch of Party Juice for all your thirsty pirates!

Zombie or Walking Dead Party

people dressed up like zoombies for a party

Characters: Zombies, survivors, mad scientists, zombie hunters, undead brides, creepy clowns, post-apocalyptic warriors

Party Ideas: Turn your space into a haunted, post-apocalyptic environment with dark lighting, fake cobwebs, and eerie decorations like skulls, tombstones, and blood splatters. Set up a “zombie transformation” station with face paint and fake blood so guests can get into character. Play spooky background music or sound effects, and consider screening classic zombie movies like Night of the Living Dead or 28 Days Later. Organize a “zombie walk” where guests can show off their best zombie shuffles, or set up a survival game where guests must “escape” from the zombies by completing various challenges.

Best Costume Prizes: Fake blood kits, zombie-themed T-shirts, survival gear, horror movie DVDs, zombie action figures

Food Ideas: Serve gruesome-looking appetizers like “severed finger” hot dogs, “brain” Jell-O molds, and “eyeball” mozzarella balls. Offer “bloody” cocktails such as Bloody Marys or red sangria, as well as non-alcoholic “zombie punch” with floating gummy worms. For heartier fare, consider “zombie guts” spaghetti or “intestine” calzones. For dessert, create “graveyard” dirt pudding cups with cookie tombstones or “zombie hand” cupcakes with green icing. Pair the food with creepy-themed drinks like “toxic slime” green punch or “undead” black lemonade.

Hero and Villian Party

 women dressed in colorful superhero costumes

Characters: Superman, Wonder Woman, Batman, Catwoman, The Flash, Iron Man, Black Widow

Party Ideas: Decorate with cityscape backdrops and superhero emblems. Create a “villain’s lair” corner for dramatic photo ops.

Best Costume Prizes: Superhero capes, masks, action figures, comic books

Food Ideas: Serve themed foods like “Kryptonite” guacamole, “Hero” sandwiches, and “Superpower” energy drinks.

James Bond Theme Party

 james bond look alike man in suit and smoking next to a beautiful woman

Characters: James Bond (in various iterations), Bond girls (e.g., Vesper Lynd, Honey Ryder, Pussy Galore), villains (e.g., Blofeld, Goldfinger, Jaws), M, Q, Moneypenny, secret agents

Party Ideas: Transform your venue into a glamorous casino, a luxury spy hideout, or a high-stakes poker room inspired by Casino Royale. Decorate with sleek, modern elements like black and white table settings, red roses, and martini glasses. Set up a “Casino Night” area where guests can play poker, blackjack, or roulette. Create a “Q Branch” where guests can take fun photos with spy gadgets and props. Play classic Bond movie soundtracks and screen iconic James Bond film clips throughout the night. Encourage guests to dress in black tie attire, evening gowns, or as their favorite Bond character.

Best Costume Prizes: Martini sets, gold cufflinks, Bond-themed novels, luxury watches, spy gadgets

Food Ideas: Serve sophisticated appetizers such as smoked salmon canapés, caviar, and bruschetta. Offer “007 Martinis” (shaken, not stirred) with options like vodka martinis, Vesper martinis, and non-alcoholic mocktails for those who prefer not to drink. For the main course, consider “M’s Roast Beef” sliders or “Q’s Quiche” with a side of “Casino Royale Shrimp Cocktail.” For dessert, go with “GoldenEye Chocolate Fondue,” “Bond’s Black Tie Tiramisu,” or “Spectre-themed Cake” with the iconic 007 logo. Pair the food with classic cocktails like Negronis, whiskey sours, and champagne.

Back To The Future Party

Back to the future building with clock on top

Characters: Marty, Doc Brown, Clara Clayton, Biff Tannen, Jennifer Parker, Dave & Linda McFly

Best Costume Prize: Back to the Future: 30th Anniversary Trilogy & Complete Animated Series

Party Ideas: Have guest pick their favorite character from one of the three Back To The Future movies. Decorations can center around one of the movies, such as a 1950s theme, Western theme, or future time theme.

Menu Ideas: Serve milkshakes, Pepsi, meatloaf, and instant mashed potatoes.

Masquerade Ball

women with cute masks on toasting champagne

Characters: Mysterious masked figures, Renaissance nobles, Venetian masks, Phantom of the Opera

Party Ideas: Use elegant drapes, chandeliers, and classical music to create a mysterious and luxurious atmosphere. Provide masks at the entrance for those who come without one.

Best Costume Prizes: Intricate masks, costume jewelry, scented candles, Venetian glass

Food Ideas: Offer delicate hors d’oeuvres, cheese platters, and sparkling wine. Finish with rich, chocolatey desserts.

Hawaiian Themed Party

older men and women dressed up with hawaiian outfits toasting drinks with umbrellas

Characters: Hula dancers, beach bums, surfers, lifeguards, tiki gods, islanders

Party Ideas: Set up tiki torches, leis, and tropical flowers. Play beach tunes and host a limbo contest.

Best Costume Prizes: Grass skirts, coconut bras, leis, tiki mugs

Food Ideas: Grill up some Hawaiian BBQ, offer tropical fruit platters, and mix up piña coladas or Mai Tais.

Fiesta Mexican Themed Party

Guy dressed up with colorful mexican coat and big hat

Characters: Friends dressed up in traditional Mexican attire. Ladies can wear a Mexican fancy dress. Men can wear sombreros, serape, and paint on a big handlebar mustache.

Best Costume Prize: Sombrero, Serape (blanket), Mexican beer

Party Ideas: Let’s have a Fiesta! Go to my Mexican Party Theme Ideas and Recipes. You will find everything you need to throw a great festive party easily. The best thing about this party theme is the delicious food that you can serve at this party.

Mixology Cocktail Party

Cocktail themed party guest toasting cute drinks with fruit and umbrellas in them

Characters: Aspiring mixologists, bartenders, cocktail connoisseurs, speakeasy patrons, James Bond, 1920s socialites

Party Ideas: Turn your space into a stylish cocktail lounge or speakeasy with elegant decor, dim lighting, and a well-stocked bar. Set up several cocktail stations where guests can learn how to mix different classic and contemporary cocktails. Hire a professional mixologist to guide guests through the process, or provide recipe cards and ingredient kits at each station. Offer a mixology contest where guests can create their own signature drink, with a prize for the best concoction. Encourage guests to dress in cocktail attire or themed outfits like 1920s flappers or James Bond-style elegance.

Best Costume Prizes: Cocktail shaker sets, personalized martini glasses, bar tools, recipe books for classic cocktails

Food Ideas: Serve a selection of appetizers that pair well with cocktails, such as bruschetta, stuffed mushrooms, and cheese platters. Offer light, bite-sized foods like mini quiches, shrimp cocktail, and gourmet sliders to keep guests satisfied without overshadowing the drinks. Set up a “Garnish Bar” with items like olives, citrus twists, and fresh herbs that guests can use to customize their drinks. For dessert, consider “Tipsy Truffles” made with liqueurs, or a “Cocktail Cupcake” station where cupcakes are flavored with popular cocktail ingredients like rum, champagne, or mojito mint. Pair the food with a variety of classic cocktails like martinis, mojitos, and old fashioneds, as well as non-alcoholic mocktails for guests who prefer not to drink. If you have friends attending that are not drinking liquor, then also serve this Spiced Mocktail and Apple Cider Mocktail or one of these 40 Mocktail Ideas.

Victorian-Era British Tea Party

women dressen victorian costumes having a tea party

Characters: Royalty, aristocrats, tea enthusiasts, Victorian ladies, Mr. Darcy, Queen Victoria

Party Ideas: Set up a garden area with tables, lace doilies, and fine china. Host a best hat competition.

Best Costume Prizes: Tea sets, fancy hats, scones mix, floral arrangements

Food Ideas: Start by learning Everything You Need To Know Abut Serving Tea. Then browse through these wonderful make ahead Tea Sandwich Recipes. For a sweet treat, serve  Italian Biscotti, Copycat Starbucks Madeleine Recipe, and Mocha Cupcakes to serve.

Roaring 20s Party Ideas

men and women dressed up in 1920s style clothes

Characters: Flappers, gangsters, jazz musicians, speakeasy bartenders, Great Gatsby-inspired socialites, Charleston dancers, silent film stars

Party Ideas: Create a glamorous, jazz-filled atmosphere reminiscent of the Roaring 20s with art deco decorations, gold and black color schemes, and lots of glitter and feathers. Set up a speakeasy-style entrance with a “secret” password for guests to enter. Encourage everyone to dress in flapper dresses, pinstripe suits, and vintage accessories. Play jazz and swing music, and organize a Charleston dance-off. Consider setting up a photo booth with props like feather boas, fedoras, and vintage microphones.

Best Costume Prizes: Feather headbands, pearl necklaces, cigarette holders, flask sets, art deco jewelry

Food Ideas: Serve elegant finger foods and canapés typical of the era, such as deviled eggs, shrimp cocktails, and caviar-topped blinis. Offer “Prohibition Cocktails” like sidecars, gin fizzes, and champagne cocktails. For a main course, consider “Gatsby’s Gourmet Sliders” and “Speakeasy Sliders” with a variety of toppings. For dessert, create a decadent dessert table with items like “Roaring 20s Chocolate Fondue,” “Jazz Age Macarons,” and “Flapper Cupcakes” decorated with gold accents and edible pearls. Pair the desserts with bubbly champagne and a “Bathtub Gin Punch” to complete the experience. For party ideas visit, How to Throw a Roaring 20s Party: Ideas for Decor, Food, and Fun.

Agatha Christie Party

man dressed up like a spy with a large magnifying glass

Characters: Hercule Poirot, Miss Marple, Captain Hastings, Inspector Japp, Countess Vera Rossakoff, Ariadne Oliver, Tommy and Tuppence, The Mysterious Mr. Quin

Party Ideas: Turn your space into a classic English manor or a luxurious train car like the Orient Express. Decorate with vintage items like old books, clocks, candlesticks, and magnifying glasses. Set up a murder mystery game inspired by one of Agatha Christie’s famous novels, where guests can play the roles of suspects or detectives trying to solve the case. Create themed areas for different books, such as a “Murder on the Orient Express” train car or a “Death on the Nile” Egyptian corner. Encourage guests to dress in 1920s or 1930s attire to match the era of Christie’s stories. Try some of these fun mystery party decorations.

Best Costume Prizes: Vintage detective novels, magnifying glasses, replica vintage pocket watches, Agatha Christie book collections

Food Ideas: Serve a selection of traditional English tea sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and cucumber canapés. Offer “Poirot’s Belgian Chocolates,” “Miss Marple’s Tea Cakes,” and “Murder on the Orient Express” cocktail sausages. For heartier fare, consider “Death on the Nile” falafel and hummus, and “The ABC Murders” meat pies. Offer themed drinks like “The Orient Express Martini,” “Miss Marple’s Tea,” and “Poirot’s Perfect Brandy.” For dessert, serve “And Then There Were None” layered cake or “The Mysterious Affair at Styles” apple tarts, adding a touch of mystery by presenting the desserts in a way that hints at the plot twists in Christie’s novels.

Famous Dead People Party Theme

Graveyard with cross tombstones for the famous dead people party

Characters: Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, Albert Einstein, Cleopatra, Abraham Lincoln, Frida Kahlo, Bob Marley, Princess Diana, James Dean, Freddie Mercury, Shakespeare, Joan of Arc or basically and dead famous person.

Party Ideas: Invite guests to dress up as their favorite famous person from history who has passed away. Create a “Hall of Fame” with pictures and memorabilia of iconic figures, and decorate the space with vintage or historical artifacts that represent different eras. Set up a red carpet entrance where guests can make a grand entrance as their chosen character. Organize a “Guess Who?” game where guests try to identify each other’s characters based on clues or mannerisms.

Best Costume Prizes: Tombstoens

Food Ideas: Offer dishes that pay homage to the icons’ favorite foods or their cultural backgrounds. For example, serve mini peanut butter and banana sandwiches in honor of Elvis Presley, “Cleopatra’s Stuffed Grape Leaves” for a taste of ancient Egypt, and “Shakespearean Meat Pies” inspired by Elizabethan England. You could include “Frida’s Fiesta Tacos” with vibrant toppings to celebrate Mexican culture or “Lincoln Logs” made of pretzel sticks for a fun twist. For dessert, consider “Marilyn’s Strawberry Cheesecake” or “Freddie Mercury’s Bohemian Rhapsody Cupcakes” with flamboyant decorations. Pair the food with drinks like “Einstein’s E=mc² Cocktails” or “Bob Marley’s One Love Punch” to keep the theme going throughout the evening.

Clue Game Party

a clue board with all of the characters from the game

Characters: Miss Scarlet, Colonel Mustard, Mrs. Peacock, Professor Plum, Mr. Green, Mrs. White, the Butler, the Detective

Party Ideas: Recreate the mystery and intrigue of the classic Clue board game by transforming your space into a mansion-like setting with different “rooms” themed after the game (e.g., the library, the ballroom, the conservatory). Set up a murder mystery game where guests take on the roles of the iconic characters and solve a whodunit scenario throughout the evening. Use dim lighting, candelabras, and vintage decor to set the mood, and provide guests with clues and prop weapons to enhance the experience.

This party would be fun to have a Clue game contest. Have several clue games set up, and the winners of each game go head to head in a final match. For more ideas, check out the Diva Girl Parties post, Clue Board Game Party. Be sure to pick up some of these Clue party decorations.

Best Costume Prizes: Magnifying glasses, detective notebooks, faux pearls, candlestick holders, vintage-style brooches

Food Ideas: Serve finger foods and appetizers that can be easily eaten while mingling and playing the game. Consider themed options like “Professor Plum’s Pâté,” “Miss Scarlet’s Strawberry Tarts,” “Colonel Mustard’s Deviled Eggs,” and “Mrs. Peacock’s Blue Cheese Bites.” Offer a selection of classic cocktails, such as martinis and old fashioneds, or create a signature “Murder Mystery Punch.” For dessert, consider a red velvet cake or cupcakes with a “bloody” raspberry filling to add to the theme.

Greek Party

greek town overlooking the ocean with a greek flag flying

Characters: Greek gods and goddesses (Zeus, Hera, Athena, Apollo), ancient Greek philosophers, mythological figures (Medusa, Hercules), toga-wearing citizens

Party Ideas: Transform your space into a Mediterranean paradise with olive branches, ivy, and white and blue table settings reminiscent of the Greek islands. Encourage guests to wear togas or attire inspired by ancient Greece. Play traditional Greek music in the background, and consider setting up a “Greek mythology” trivia game. Decorate with columns, urns, and statues to evoke the grandeur of ancient Greece.

Best Costume Prizes: Olive wreath crowns, Greek amphora-style wine jugs, Greek key-patterned jewelry, olives or baklava.

Food Ideas: Hosting a fabulous Greek Dinner Party will be easy; using these inspirational menu ideas, easy printable decorations, and even a printable fun Greek game, your guest will have a blast playing. Serve a Greek Wedge Salad or this delicious Greek Lemon Chicken Rice Soup

Disco Dance Party

Man dressed in a disco outfit dancing

Characters: Disco dancers, John Travolta, Donna Summer, DJs, club-goers, Studio 54 regulars

Party Ideas: Set up a disco ball, neon lights, and a dance floor. Play 70s disco hits and host a dance-off.

Best Costume Prizes: Disco balls, gold chains, platform shoes, afro wigs

Food Ideas: Serve 70s-inspired snacks like fondue, cheese balls, and cocktails like the Harvey Wallbanger.

Black and White Ball Themed Party

Smooth man dressed in all white suit and hat

Characters: Elegant socialites, masquerade attendees, Audrey Hepburn (Breakfast at Tiffany’s), classic film stars, tuxedo-clad gentlemen, glamorous Hollywood icons

Party Ideas: Create a sophisticated and stylish ambiance with black and white decorations, including balloons, streamers, and table settings. Encourage guests to dress in their finest black and white attire, adding an optional masquerade element for extra elegance. Set up a dance floor with classic jazz or swing music, and consider hosting a “Best Dressed” competition. Provide a photo booth with black and white props, feather boas, and vintage-style hats.

Best Costume Prizes: Black and white masks, elegant cufflinks, pearl necklaces, vintage-style photo frames

Food Ideas: Serve a monochrome menu featuring black and white foods, such as black and white cookies, Oreo truffles, and tuxedo strawberries. Offer hors d’oeuvres like caviar on black bread, goat cheese crostini, and black olive tapenade. For drinks, consider “black tie” cocktails like white Russians, espresso martinis, and champagne with a blackberry garnish. Finish with a black and white cake or a selection of desserts arranged in a striking black and white display.

Las Vegas Night Party

Las Vegas Nevada sign lite at night

Characters: High rollers, showgirls, dealers, Elvis impersonators, tourists, poker players

Party Ideas: Set up casino tables with blackjack, poker, and roulette. Decorate with playing cards, dice, and neon signs.

Best Costume Prizes: Poker chips, decks of cards, mini slot machines, feather boas

Food Ideas: Serve finger foods like shrimp cocktails, mini sandwiches, and chips with dip. Offer classic cocktails like martinis and Manhattans. Serve up some steaks with Whiskey Marinade and a Green Jacket Salad. For a cocktail, serve a Transfusion or an Infused Vodka Cocktail.

Safari Inspired Party

men and women dress for a safari and looking out binoculars.

Characters: Safari guides, explorers, wild animals, Tarzan, Jane, adventurers

Party Ideas: Use jungle-themed decorations like animal print, vines, and tropical plants. Play animal sounds and host a “safari” scavenger hunt.

Best Costume Prizes: Safari hats, binoculars, animal print scarves, toy animals

Food Ideas: Serve tropical fruits, grilled skewers, and jungle punch. Offer “wild” snacks like trail mix and beef jerky.

Wig Party

women and men dressed crazy colored big fluffy wigs

Characters: Rock stars, 80s divas, judges, drag queens, Marilyn Monroe, wild characters with funky wigs

Party Ideas: Encourage everyone to wear their craziest, most colorful, or most outrageous wigs. Set up a photo booth with fun props, and have a wig-themed fashion show where guests can strut their stuff on a mini runway.

Best Costume Prizes: Crazy wigs, wig stands, hairbrushes, colorful hairspray

Food Ideas: Serve finger foods that are easy to eat while mingling, such as sandwiches, mini quiches, and colorful cocktails. Offer a “wig-themed” dessert like a cupcake tower with frosting that resembles different wig styles.

Italian Style Party

Man and women dressed in italian clothes sitting outside drinking wine

Characters: Guest will dress in traditional Italian costumes.

Best Costume Prize: Bottle of Italian wine, Italian restaurant gift cards

Get the party started with traditional Italian decorations. Learn how to throw an Easy Italian Dinner Party using authentic Italian recipes.

Menu Ideas: For dinner, serve Ragu Bolognese, Spaghetti Sauce With Fresh Tomatoes, Fresh Tomato Salad With Italian Herbs, and Easy Italian Crock Pot Chicken Parmesan. Be sure and make my favorite, Italian Herb Cheesy Pull-Apart Bread too. Get More Italian Recipes: 50+ Italian Dinner Party Recipes and Ideas.

a group of Italian meals with italian flag overlaid

Gilligan’s Island Themed Party

Gilligan Island characters standing and sitting in a boat.

Characters: Gilligan, The Skipper, The Professor, Mary Ann, Ginger, Mr. and Mrs. Howell, island natives

Party Ideas: Transform your space into a tropical deserted island with palm trees, bamboo decorations, and beach sand. Set up a makeshift “shipwreck” scene and play episodes of Gilligan’s Island in the background. Consider having a “rescue mission” game where guests search for hidden “survival” items.

Best Costume Prizes: Coconut cups, sailor hats, tiki torches, tropical leis

Food Ideas: Serve island-themed foods like coconut shrimp, tropical fruit platters, and rum punch. Offer “Gilligan’s favorite” banana cream pie as a dessert.

Favorite Movie Stars Party

red staircase with oscar awards and star at top

Characters: Movie stars, directors, paparazzi, Hollywood legends, Oscars host

Party Ideas: Roll out a red carpet at the entrance, and have a photo booth with a Hollywood backdrop. Encourage guests to give acceptance speeches when they arrive.

Best Costume Prizes: Golden trophies, sunglasses, movie clapperboard, mini champagne bottles

Food Ideas: Offer gourmet popcorn and champagne cocktails. Set up a candy station with classic movie theater treats.

Great Gatsby Party

Great gatsby book cover

Characters: Nick Carraway, Jay Gatsby, Daisy Buchanan, Tom Buchanan, Jordan Baker, George & Myrtle Wilson, Owl Eyes, Klipspringer

Party Ideas: Create a glamorous, roaring 1920s atmosphere with art deco decorations, gold accents, and lots of glitter. Encourage guests to dress in flapper dresses, tuxedos, and other 1920s attire. Set up a jazz band or play swing music to get everyone dancing. Consider a “champagne tower” as a centerpiece and a photo booth with vintage props.

Best Costume Prizes: Feather boas, pearl necklaces, cufflinks, flapper headbands

Food Ideas: Serve elegant finger foods like caviar, oysters, and mini canapés. Offer champagne cocktails like the French 75, along with classic cocktails such as the Gin Rickey and Mint Julep. Finish with decadent desserts like éclairs, madeleines, and macarons.

Mardi Gras Party Ideas

purple, yellow and green mardi gra masks, feathers and necklaces

Characters: Kings, queens, jesters, revelers, carnival performers, masked strangers

Party Ideas: Decorate with purple, green, and gold. Provide beads and masks at the door, and play jazz and zydeco music.

Best Costume Prizes: Beaded necklaces, masks, king cake baby, feather boas

Food Ideas: Serve Cajun dishes like Creamy Cajun Crockpot Chicken, jambalaya, gumbo, and king cake. Offer Hurricanes or Sazeracs for drinks.

Old TV Shows Characters Party Idea

old tv on legs from the 1950s style

Characters: Lucy Ricardo (I Love Lucy), The Fonz (Happy Days), Samantha Stephens (Bewitched), Fred Flintstone (The Flintstones), Jeannie (I Dream of Jeannie), Herman Munster (The Munsters), Archie Bunker (All in the Family), Mary Richards (The Mary Tyler Moore Show), Captain Kirk (Star Trek), Gilligan (Gilligan’s Island), Brady Bunch family members, Laverne & Shirley (Laverne & Shirley), Maxwell Smart (Get Smart)

Party Ideas: Decorate with memorabilia and themed decor from the 1950s, 60s, and 70s. Set up multiple TV screens playing classic episodes from different shows. Create a trivia game based on these iconic shows, or host a “best impersonation” contest where guests try to act out famous scenes or lines from their favorite characters.

Best Costume Prizes: Retro TV memorabilia, vinyl records, character bobbleheads, TV-themed puzzles

Food Ideas: Serve classic TV dinner-style meals like meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and peas. Offer retro snacks like deviled eggs, pigs in a blanket, and Jell-O molds. For dessert, consider a classic chocolate fondue or banana splits. Serve vintage cocktails like Old Fashioneds and Tom Collins.

Hippie Party

hippies, head bands, tie-die, guitar

Characters: Flower children, peace activists, groovy musicians, Woodstock attendees, tie-dye enthusiasts, bohemians

Party Ideas: Decorate with tie-dye banners, peace signs, lava lamps, and psychedelic posters. Create a chill zone with floor cushions, incense, and a playlist of 60s and 70s rock music. Set up a tie-dye station where guests can make their own shirts, or have a “flower crown” crafting table.

Best Costume Prizes: Tie-dye shirts, peace sign necklaces, flower crowns, vintage sunglasses

Food Ideas: Serve vegetarian-friendly options like hummus and veggie platters, fruit kabobs, and granola bars. Offer herbal teas, kombucha, and a “flower power” punch made with fresh fruit juices. For dessert, consider making hemp-inspired brownies (without the actual hemp, unless it’s legal and desired) or a groovy, colorful cake decorated with peace symbols.

Groovy 60s Parties

Groovy 60s Party Themes with pictures of hippies, go-go dancers, astronaut

Check out all these great Groovy 60s Party Themes. The 1960s has so many great retro party themes I had to make you a whole post about it. So many groovy ideas you are going to be sure and find one you will want to use for your next party.

Movie Grease Party

cover of the grease movie with all the characters from the movie

Characters: Danny Zuko, Sandy Olsson, Rizzo, Kenickie, Frenchy, The Pink Ladies, The T-Birds, Vince Fontaine

Party Ideas: Transform your space into Rydell High with 1950s diner decor, including checkered tablecloths, jukeboxes, and neon signs. Set up a “drive-in” area where you can screen Grease or play clips from the movie. Host a dance-off to the tunes of the Grease soundtrack, or have a “best hairdo” contest to see who can replicate the iconic looks from the film.

Best Costume Prizes: Pink Lady jackets, leather jackets, combs, vinyl records, faux 50s diner menus

Food Ideas: Serve classic 1950s diner fare like burgers, hot dogs, milkshakes, and fries. Offer root beer floats and soda pop in glass bottles. For dessert, go with a retro ice cream sundae bar, banana split cake, or creamsicle mini pies.

Egyptian Party Theme

egypt woman costume

Characters: Pharaohs, Cleopatra, Queen Nefertiti, Egyptian gods and goddesses (e.g., Ra, Anubis, Isis), mummies, ancient Egyptian priests, Sphinx

Party Ideas: Decorate with golden accents, hieroglyphics, and pyramid structures. Create an “ancient temple” ambiance with flickering candles and draped fabrics. Set up a “mummy wrapping” contest using toilet paper, or organize a treasure hunt for hidden “ancient artifacts” around the party area. You could also have an Egyptian-themed photo booth with props like Egyptian headdresses and fake beards. Egyption party decorations could be Egypt maps, large palm leaves or backdrops.

Best Costume Prizes: Gold cuffs, scarab beetle jewelry, ankhs, Egyptian-style headpieces

Food Ideas: Serve Middle Eastern-inspired dishes like hummus and pita, stuffed grape leaves, falafel, and lamb kebabs. Offer a selection of dried fruits, nuts, stuffed dates, and honey cakes. For drinks, consider serving pomegranate juice, spiced wine, or mint tea. A dessert option could be baklava or date-filled pastries.

Pajama Party

women dressed in cute pjs jumping on a bed

A pajama party is a great idea if you want to relax and enjoy spending time with friends.

Characters: Good friends that want to relax and chill.

Best Costume Prize: Pillows, eye masks or fuzzy socks

Party Ideas: Ok, I must confess I am most relaxed when I’m in my pj’s. This would be a great movie night party. Have everyone wear their favorite comfy pj’s, and serve popcorn and candy for snacks. For fun, have everyone bring their own favorite pillow and blanket. Here are some fun Pajama party decorations.

Food Ideas: Serve breakfast-for-dinner options like pancakes, bacon, and hot cocoa. Have a midnight snack bar with popcorn, cookies, and ice cream.

Rocky Horror Picture Show Party

image of rocky horror on a huge sign in new york

Characters: Dr. Frank-N-Furter, Janet Weiss, Brad Majors, Riff Raff, Magenta, Columbia, Rocky, The Criminologist

Party Ideas: Create a gothic, theatrical atmosphere with red and black decorations, glitter, and dramatic lighting. Set up a screening area for The Rocky Horror Picture Show and encourage guests to participate in the interactive audience responses and dance along to “The Time Warp.” Provide props like newspapers, rice, and toast for guests to use during key moments in the movie. Consider a costume contest to see who can best embody their favorite character.

Best Costume Prizes: Fishnet stockings, feather boas, rhinestone gloves, vinyl records of the soundtrack and unique Rocky Horror prizes

Food Ideas: Serve a mix of quirky, themed snacks like “meatloaf” sliders (a nod to the character Meat Loaf), “Frank-N-Furter” pigs in a blanket, and “Rocky” road bars. Offer “Transylvanian punch” and a selection of cocktails with fun names like “Time Warp Tonic” or “Sweet Transvestite Sangria.” For dessert, consider a red velvet cake shaped like lips or a black forest pie.

The Office Party Theme Ideas

Need a fun idea for throwing a party for your workplace? Planning a themed office party can transform a regular gathering into a memorable event. Everyone has a favorite episode, and this is their chance to have fun dressing up and bringing all the props to the party.

cover of the office dvd with characters

Characters: Michael Scott, Dwight Schrute, Jim Halpert, Pam Beesly, Stanley Hudson, Angela Martin, Kevin Malone, Kelly Kapoor

Party Ideas: Recreate the Dunder Mifflin office with cubicle-like decorations, “World’s Best Boss” mugs, and Dundie Awards. Set up a trivia game based on episodes from The Office or host a “who said it” quote competition. You could also have an Office Olympics with games like “Flonkerton” (from the show) or a paper airplane contest. Encourage guests to dress as their favorite characters and have a “Best Office Attire” competition. Have everyone choose their favorite character and dress up like them. If you need some party ideas visit Laura at EventOTB post, How to Host Your Michael Scott, Pro-Am, The Office Party .

Best Costume Prize: The Office Dwight Schrute Roar pillow or Dundie Awards, “World’s Best Boss” mugs, staplers in Jell-O molds, Schrute Farms beets

Food Ideas: Then whip up some of Kevin’s homemade chili. Just don’t spill it! Serve classic office snacks like pretzels, chips, and cookies. Have a chili station (a nod to Kevin’s famous chili) and a cake that says “It is your birthday.” You could also offer themed treats like “Jim’s Tuna Sandwiches,” “Dwight’s Beet Salad,” and “Pretzel Day” pretzel and dip. For drinks, consider “Michael’s Scotch and Splenda” or a coffee bar reminiscent of the office breakroom.


Onesie Party

woman dressed in green creature onesie pjs

Characters: Pajama enthusiasts, cartoon characters, animals, unicorns, superheroes, whimsical creatures (all in onesie form)

Party Ideas: Create a cozy and relaxed atmosphere with lots of blankets, pillows, and dim lighting. Encourage guests to wear their most fun or comfortable onesies. Set up a movie marathon area with classic comedies or feel-good films. Host a “onesie fashion show” where guests can show off their outfits, or organize a “pajama game night” with board games, card games, or a pillow fight competition. You can also order onesie adult PJs online.

Best Costume Prizes: Comfy slippers, cozy blankets, sleep masks, hot cocoa kits

Food Ideas: Serve comfort foods like mac and cheese, grilled cheese sandwiches, and tomato soup. Offer a DIY hot chocolate bar with marshmallows, whipped cream, and various toppings. For dessert, consider serving cookies, brownies, or a make-your-own sundae station. Drinks could include warm cider, hot toddies, or milkshakes. Make it easy on yourself and set up a snack food bar for your guests.

Sci-fi Party

matrix screen

Characters: Aliens, astronauts, Star Trek crew, Jedi, robots, mad scientists

Party Ideas: Use silver and neon decorations with a “space station” vibe. Set up a “UFO landing” area or “lab experiment” zone.

Best Costume Prizes: Light-up toys, glow sticks, sci-fi novels, alien headbands

Food Ideas: Serve “space” snacks like freeze-dried ice cream, “galaxy” punch, and “alien” finger foods with green dip.

Wizard of Oz Party

very old book cover of the wizard of oz by w.w.Denslow

Characters: Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man, Cowardly Lion, Glinda the Good Witch, Wicked Witch of the West, The Wizard, Munchkins, Flying Monkeys

Party Ideas: Transform your space into the magical land of Oz with a yellow brick road entrance, emerald green decorations, and poppy flowers. Set up different areas themed around the movie, such as a “Munchkinland” with colorful decor and treats, an “Emerald City” corner with shiny green accents, and a “Haunted Forest” with spooky trees and witches. Host a costume contest for the best character look-alike, or organize a scavenger hunt to find “courage,” “heart,” and “brains” hidden around the party. Buy a roll of yellow paper and have your guest enter on the yellow brick road—more Wizard of Oz party supplies.

Best Costume Prizes: Ruby slippers, tin hearts, courage medals, Glinda’s wand, Wizard hats

Food Ideas: Serve themed snacks like “Toto’s Treats” (dog-shaped cookies), “Yellow Brick Road” lemon bars, and “Munchkin Donuts” (donut holes). Offer a “Rainbow Punch” and green “Emerald City” cocktails. For a main course, consider “Wicked Witch’s Fingers” (pigs in a blanket) and “Lions, Tigers, and Bears” animal-shaped sandwiches. Finish with a “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” layered cake or cupcakes decorated in rainbow colors.

Greek Toga Party

lady in a toga holding scales

Characters: Emperors, gladiators, goddesses, philosophers, centurions, Roman citizens

Party Ideas: Drape your space in white and gold fabric, and use columns and laurel wreaths as decorations. Play classical music or ancient Roman-style tunes.

Best Costume Prizes: Laurel crowns, goblets, Roman sandals, mini wine bottles

Food Ideas: Hosting a fabulous Greek dinner party! Using this inspirational menu idea, easy printable decorations, and even a fun printable Greek game will be easy. Your guests will have a blast playing.

greek dinner dishes and party decor
Greek Dinner Party Decorations and Recipes

Casino Movie Night Party

four people cheering in a casiono
Casino Movie Night Party

Characters: Casino dealers, high rollers, mobsters, showgirls, gamblers, James Bond (Casino Royale), Ace Rothstein (Casino), Danny Ocean (Ocean’s Eleven)

Party Ideas: Set up your space like a luxurious casino with poker tables, playing cards, and chips as decorations. Create a “high stakes” atmosphere with dim lighting, neon signs, and velvet ropes. Screen a marathon of classic casino-themed movies such as Casino, Ocean’s Eleven, Casino Royale, and The Gambler. Encourage guests to dress up as their favorite characters from these films. Organize a friendly poker tournament or blackjack game during intermissions.

Best Costume Prizes: Poker chips, mini slot machines, playing card decks, martini glasses, faux money stacks

Food Ideas: Serve elegant finger foods like shrimp cocktails, mini sliders, and bruschetta. Offer a “martini bar” with classic cocktails like martinis (shaken, not stirred), Old Fashioneds, and whiskey sours. For dessert, consider “casino-themed” treats like chocolate-covered strawberries, playing card cookies, and a cake shaped like a roulette wheel. Finish with gourmet popcorn for guests to enjoy during the movie screenings.

1980s Party

two ladies dressed in 1980s bold makeup and clothes
80s Party

Characters: Madonna, Michael Jackson, aerobics instructors, rock stars, neon enthusiasts, yuppies

Party Ideas: Use neon colors, cassette tapes, and disco balls for decorations. Play 80s hits and have a dance-off.

Best Costume Prizes: Neon sunglasses, cassette tape wallets, Rubik’s cubes, leg warmers

Food Ideas: Serve classic 80s snacks like cheese puffs, mini pizzas, and soda pop. Offer retro cocktails like wine coolers or Long Island Iced Teas.

Masters Golf Party

Characters: Jack Nicholes, Bobby Jones, Arnold Palmer, Tiger Woods, Sam Snead, Tom Watson

Best Costume Prize:: Bobblehead Golfer Trophy or tickets to the Masters.(just kidding)

Have guests dress up as their favorite golfers. For dinner and a movie party, watch Utopia, Bobby Jones, The Greatest Game Ever Played, and of course, don’t forget Caddyshack.

Food Ideas: Your guest will be impressed when you serve up authentic Masters concession stand recipes.

Masters Concession Stand Copycat Recipes

Famous Augusta, GA Recipes

Medieval Feast

A medieval-themed banquet in a rustic stone hall. Three people in period costumes are seated at a wooden table laden with food and surrounded by candles. The man in the center, holding a drink, appears to be in mid-speech, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Characters: Kings, queens, knights, jesters, lords, ladies, peasants

Party Ideas: Use long tables with rustic decor, goblets, and candles. Organize a jousting tournament or archery contest (safely!).

Best Costume Prizes: Crowns, chalices, faux swords, medieval trinkets

Food Ideas: Serve roasted meats, bread, cheese, and ale. Finish with a spiced wine or mead.

1950s Rock ‘n’ Roll Party

A group of people dressed in retro 1950s clothing pose energetically in front of a vintage car. They are smiling, laughing, and striking playful poses. The background features a clear sky. The women wear polka dots and summer dresses, while the men sport casual outfits.

Characters: Elvis Presley, The Beatles, rock stars, groupies, bikers, roadies

Party Ideas: Set up a “stage” for air guitar performances and decorate with records and guitars. Play classic rock hits all night.

Best Costume Prizes: Guitar picks, band T-shirts, vinyl records, sunglasses

Food Ideas: Serve diner-style food like burgers, fries, and milkshakes. Offer beer and classic cocktails like the Whiskey Sour.

Retro Video Game Night

A retro gaming setup features three CRT TVs displaying 8-bit video games, a neon SEGA sign on the wall, and an arcade machine to the side. The room is illuminated with a blue hue, contributing to a nostalgic arcade atmosphere. A small gaming console sits below the TVs.

Characters: Classic video game characters like Mario, Luigi, Pac-Man, Sonic the Hedgehog, Lara Croft, Donkey Kong, Zelda, Link

Party Ideas: Decorate with pixelated designs, old-school gaming posters, and neon lights. Set up multiple gaming stations with retro consoles like NES, Sega Genesis, and Atari. Encourage guests to dress as their favorite retro video game characters. Organize a high-score competition or a tournament for classic games like Mario Kart or Street Fighter.

Best Costume Prizes: Vintage gaming merch, arcade tokens, retro console keychains, collectible figurines

Food Ideas: Serve themed snacks like “Power-Up” mushrooms, “Pac-Man” pizza slices, and “Coin” chocolate gold coins. Offer “Player 1 & Player 2” drinks with classic soda flavors and mocktails. For dessert, create a “Tetris” block cake or “8-bit” brownies decorated with pixelated designs.

Neon Glow Party

A person with neon face and body paint under blacklight is holding tongs with a glowing object. The person has bright white lips and vivid streaks of paint on their face. A lit, glowing item on a stand is in the foreground, creating a vibrant, colorful effect.

Characters: Neon ravers, glow stick dancers, blacklight enthusiasts, 80s neon fashion icons

Party Ideas: Decorate the venue with blacklights, glow-in-the-dark decorations, and neon-colored streamers. Encourage guests to wear bright, neon-colored clothing and accessories that will pop under blacklight. Set up a DIY glow-in-the-dark face paint station, and play upbeat dance music to keep the energy high. Organize a glow stick dance-off or a “best neon outfit” contest.

Best Costume Prizes: Glow stick packs, neon sunglasses, LED accessories, blacklight-reactive items

Food Ideas: Serve glowing foods like neon-colored cupcakes, “electric” blue punch, and bright fruit skewers. Offer glow-in-the-dark jello shots and fluorescent cocktails using tonic water or other UV-reactive ingredients. For dessert, create neon-decorated cookies or a glowing cake with colorful frosting that shines under blacklight.

More Party Ideas

Need more party idea inspiration?

Save For Later!