80s Theme Party

Throwing an 80s theme party lets guests revisit one of the most colorful and energetic decades in pop culture history.

Essential Party Elements

The right music playlist forms the foundation of any 80s party, featuring artists like Madonna, Michael Jackson, Prince, Cyndi Lauper, and Duran Duran.

Decorations

• Neon colors – especially pink, yellow, and green
• Rubik’s cubes as centerpieces
• MTV logos and music notes
• Pac-Man and arcade game cutouts
• Cassette tape decorations
• Vinyl records as wall art

Food and Drinks

• Pop Rocks candy
• Ring Pops
• Tang drinks
• TV dinners served on TV trays
• Microwaved snacks
• New Coke (if available)

Costume Ideas

• Material Girl: Lace gloves, tulle skirts, bright jewelry
• Miami Vice Look: Pastel t-shirts under white suits
• Workout Wear: Leg warmers, headbands, leotards
• Punk Rock: Ripped jeans, leather jackets, safety pins
• Valley Girl: Mini skirts, shoulder pads, big hair

Entertainment Activities

• 80s trivia contest
• Dance contest featuring moonwalk competitions
• Vintage video game station
• Photo booth with 80s props
• Name that 80s tune game

Shopping Resources

Find authentic 80s items and replicas at these locations:

• Etsy – Vintage clothing and accessories
• Party City – 80s themed decorations
• Local thrift stores – Original 80s clothing
• Local vintage shops – Authentic accessories

Quick Planning Timeline

Remember to take lots of photos – the bold fashion choices and creative costumes will make for memorable party pictures.

Music Setup Tips

• Create different playlists for different moods
• Include both popular hits and one-hit wonders
• Set up a request system for guests’ favorite 80s songs
• Consider hiring a DJ who specializes in 80s music

Special Touches

Lighting Effects

• Blacklights for neon impact
• Disco balls for dance floor ambiance
• LED strip lights in 80s colors
• Strobe lights for dance contests

Party Favors

• Mixtape USB drives with 80s hits
• Neon slap bracelets
• Mini Rubik’s cubes
• 80s-themed temporary tattoos
• Candy necklaces

Creating the Perfect Atmosphere

• Display vintage movie posters
• Set up a VHS player with 80s movies
• Create themed zones (arcade corner, MTV lounge)
• Use era-appropriate serving ware

Conclusion

The key to a successful 80s theme party lies in attention to detail and embracing the decade’s unique style. From the music selection to the smallest decorative elements, each aspect should transport guests back to this memorable era. Encourage guests to fully commit to their costumes and characters, as participation is what makes these parties truly special. With proper planning and execution, your 80s party will create lasting memories that capture the decade’s fun, excess, and distinctive charm.

FAQs

1. What are the essential decorations needed for an 80s theme party?
   Neon lights, colorful balloons, boombox cutouts, Rubik’s cubes, cassette tapes, vinyl records, geometric shapes, and arcade game props are essential decorations. Walls can be decorated with posters of 80s icons and movie stars.
2. What music should be played at an 80s theme party?
   Popular 80s artists like Madonna, Michael Jackson, Prince, Cyndi Lauper, Duran Duran, The Police, Queen, and Whitney Houston. Essential genres include new wave, pop, rock, and hip-hop from the decade.
3. What are appropriate costume ideas for an 80s theme party?
   Neon workout gear, Members Only jackets, shoulder pads, acid-wash jeans, leg warmers, fingerless gloves, mini skirts with leggings, and bright makeup. Popular character inspirations include Miami Vice, Madonna, MTV icons, and punk rockers.
4. What food and drinks were popular in the 80s for parties?
   Tang, New Coke, Tab, cheese balls, Pop Rocks, Ritz crackers with cheese spray, TV dinners, frozen pot pies, Hostess snacks, and microwaved appetizers. Popular candies included Nerds, Skittles, and Ring Pops.
5. What games and activities are appropriate for an 80s theme party?
   Classic arcade games, Trivial Pursuit, Simon Says, Twister, break dancing competitions, lip-sync battles, and movie quote contests. Setting up a vintage photo booth with 80s props is also popular.
6. How should I create authentic 80s party invitations?
   Use bright neon colors, geometric patterns, and bold typography. Include references to MTV, arcade games, or popular 80s catchphrases. Digital invitations can mimic vintage computer graphics.
7. What lighting effects work best for an 80s theme party?
   Black lights, neon glow sticks, laser effects, disco balls, and colorful LED strips. Strobe lights and fog machines can create an authentic 80s nightclub atmosphere.
8. What movies can be played in the background during an 80s party?
   The Breakfast Club, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, Back to the Future, E.T., Ghostbusters, Pretty in Pink, Top Gun, or The Goonies. Music videos from MTV’s golden era are also appropriate.
9. How can I create an 80s-themed photo backdrop?
   Use metallic fringe curtains, neon tape in geometric patterns, poster collages of 80s icons, or create a wall of vinyl records. Add props like giant Rubik’s cubes, boomboxes, or neon signs.
10. What party favors are appropriate for an 80s theme party?
    Slap bracelets, candy necklaces, Pop Rocks, Rubik’s cube keychains, neon sunglasses, jelly bracelets, temporary tattoos, and mini arcade games make perfect take-home gifts.

Author: Editor