Using a 1970s theme for your birthday party allows you to bring in funky, retro elements that create a disco or hippie flower power vibe. Incorporate your theme in your invitations, decorations, activities and even your party favors. Your guests are sure to have a groovy time if you set the stage for a nostalgic party, whether you grew up during the ’70s or not.
Invitations
Make personalized invitations that set the tone for your ’70s birthday party. For example, cut folded card stock into a bell bottom pattern and cut up an old pair of jeans into small bell bottoms that can be glued onto the card stock. Simpler ideas include a round invitation with a yellow smiley face and the party information written on the back. Invitations that include a peace sign, daisy or tie dye are also fitting. Ask guests to wear their disco gear, leisure suits or other 1970s attire, if you want them to dress up.
Decorations
Silver or rainbow-colored disco balls can hang from the ceiling for a disco-themed ’70s party. Include lava lamps, black lights and glow-in-the-dark posters. Colorful streamers, beaded curtains and posters with peace signs and smiley faces work for almost any ’70s party. Bean bag and blow-up furniture will fit in on top of shaggy carpets. Hang posters of popular 1970s movies, sitcoms and bands. Make a custom “happy birthday” sign with daisies, smiley faces and peace signs drawn all over it with glow-in-the-dark gel pens or markers. Let the guests write messages on the sign as a keepsake.
Activities
Play music from the 1970s to encourage your guests to dance, particularly for a ‘tween, teen or adult birthday party. A mixed CD that features popular dance songs will work if a DJ is out of your budget. Karaoke and 1970s trivia games will likely keep your guests entertained and get a few laughs. Consider games from the ’70s, such as Twister, for those who don’t want to dance. Relay races could include having to don an entire outfit from the ’70s, including a leisure suit, Afro wig and platforms.
Party Favors
Set up craft stations for your guests to make their own party favors, such as pet rocks. Tie dye T-shirts or pillow cases, particularly if you’re having a slumber party. Decorate picture frames with small reflective mirrors to look like a disco ball, peace signs or smiley faces. Pass out goody bags with retro candy, disco ball key chains, Rubik’s cubes or smiley face key chains.
Considerations
Simple finger foods are best for a 1970s party. Set out chips and dip, veggie platters and bite-sized sandwiches. Have extra wigs and outfits on-hand, if possible, for guests who forget to dress up or to take funky retro pictures. Provide adequate supervision for a teen or ‘tween party without hovering, as your child will likely resent it.
Photo Credit
- half disco ball image by leafy from Fotolia.com
