80s party ideas
Everything you need for an 80s party is here!
These 80s party ideas are totally radical!
The 80s
80s party – Theme – Clothes
”When it comes to an 80s party, fun and lively elements are key to creating that nostalgic feel. An 80s party is perfect for milestone birthdays, hen parties or simply for celebrating with friends and family.”.
From music to clothing, and everything in between, these 80s party ideas will help you plan an event your guests will never forget. Everyone loves a good themed party, and you can't go wrong with a tribute to an iconic decade.
Here are all the 80s party ideas you need to throw a nostalgic night to remember:
Invitations
80s party invitations can be so much fun to create. You can use neon colors, geometric patterns, iconic 80s images like cassette tapes or the Rubik's Cube, and references to popular movies and TV shows. This can easily be done with a site like Canva and can be printed and mailed – there were no evites in the 80s!
The Music
Create a playlist of popular 80s songs from different genres such as pop, rock, new wave and hard rock. Include hits from artists such as Michael Jackson, Madonna, Prince, Queen, Bon Jovi and Cyndi Lauper. You can Hire a DJ to manage the music or book an 80s cover band to rock out to all the popular hits.
Pro tip: Here's an 80s party playlist set and ready to stream on Spotify.
Photo booths
For an 80s party, it's easy to create your own photo booth area with props like oversized sunglasses, wigs, and inflatable guitars. Use a background that resembles a neon city from the 80s for that extra retro feel. You can also book a photo booth supplier to take care of the setup and props!
Karaoke
Set up a karaoke machine or hire a karaoke DJ offering a selection of 80s songs. Partygoers will love singing along to hits like Don't Stop Believin', Hit Me With Your Best Shot, and I Wanna Dance With Somebody.
80s party clothes
Dress is key when it comes to an 80s party. Ask guests to come dressed in their best 80s gear – think leg warmers, neon spandex, big hair and shoulder pads.
Some other popular '80s party wear can include off-the-shoulder tops, acid-treated jeans, headbands, fingerless gloves, and accessories like sunglasses, chunky jewelry, and scrunchies.
DIY fashion station
Set up a DIY fashion station where guests can create their own '80s-inspired accessories. Provide materials such as neon paint, iron-on patches, buttons and safety pins. Guests can design their own T-shirts, headbands or bracelets.
80s party decorations
VHS vibes
Embrace the nostalgia of VHS tapes by using them as decorative elements. Hang VHS tape garlands and set up a cozy lounge with vintage VCRs and a collection of 80s movies on VHS.
Neon everywhere
Use neon tablecloths, streamers and balloons to create a lively atmosphere. You can also scatter neon balloons around or create a neon balloon arch that doubles as a photo station.
Posters
Display posters of iconic 80s movies, bands or celebrities on the walls or print for other decor during the party. Movies like The Breakfast Club and Ferris Bueller's Day Off will be popular with guests. Don't forget to feature iconic music stars like Madonna or AC/DC for some rock vibes.
Rubik's cube & Boom boxes
Place Rubik's cubes as centerpieces on tables or use them as decorative accents. You can also set up vintage-style boom boxes as props or buy inflatable boom boxes from Amazon.
Classic Party Snacks
For your 80s party, you can offer classic party snacks such as hot dogs in puff pastry, mini hamburgers and cheese balls. For some sweet options, serve colorful and wobbly jelly molds in different flavors.
DIY candy bar
Set up a candy bar with nostalgic treats like Pop Rocks, Nerds, and Pixy Stix. Other sweet snacks like Gushers and Fruit Roll-Ups will also be popular.
Signature drink heritage
Create 80s-inspired drinks with names such as ”Electric Lemonade”, ”Radical Raspberry Mojito”, ”Purple Rain” or ”Material Girl Martini”. You can get creative with the ingredients and even opt for mocktail versions.
Pro Tips: Hire a bartender to curate and create these signature drinks.
80s games
Set up classic board games and TV games from the 80s. Have games like Twister, Operation, Simon Says or original Nintendo available for guests to enjoy. Games like Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, or Space Invaders will make guests feel nostalgic in no time.
Dance floor
Set up a dance floor with colorful flashing lights reminiscent of the disco era of the 80s. Teach guests some iconic '80s dance moves like the Moonwalk, Robot, and Electric Slide.
Party benefactor
Send guests home with great '80s party favors like mixtapes, Rubik's cubes or personalized items with popular '80s logos or phrases. You can also make candy bags from the DIY candy bar mentioned above.
More 80s party ideas
Movie marathon
Organize a movie marathon with iconic 80s movies like The Breakfast Club, Back to the Future, Ghostbusters, or Ferris Bueller's Day Off. Set up a cozy viewing area with beanbag chairs and neon-colored blankets. Serve popcorn and classic 80s movie snacks.
Glow-in-the-Dark Dance Party
Turn your party into a neon extravaganza by including glow-in-the-dark elements. Provide neon face and body paint, glow sticks and fluorescent decorations. Dim the lights and let guests dance to their favorite 80s hits while glowing under black lights.
80s facts
Test your guests' knowledge of 80s pop culture with an entertaining trivia game. Prepare a mix of questions about music, movies, TV shows, and fashion from the 80s. Offer fun prizes to the winners, like 80s-related merchandise or gift cards.
Dance duels
Organize a dance competition with popular 80s moves like the moonwalk or the worm.
