Aww, the 70’s. A time of disco music, flares, platform shoes, and the invention of the Sony Walkman. These were times when life was much simpler than it is now. There may not have been as much around in terms of technology or medical innovations, but life was generally pretty good for most, hence the want to recreate it in a knockout party.
Planning a disco-themed 70s party doesn’t have to be difficult. In fact, it can be a lot of fun. You just need to know where to start. So, follow the short guide below and start planning the mother of all 70’s parties.
- One of the very first things you need to think about is where you’re going to hold your party. If it’s just going to involve a few friends, then maybe someone’s house is big enough to hold the event. But if you’re thinking of something a little larger scale, then you start looking to secure the venue. As well as considering your final numbers for guests, just bear in mind space for props and extras.
- Music. This is the #1 factor to consider above everything else as it just wouldn’t be a 70’s party without the disco music. Whether you decide to do it alone or hire in a professional DJ to take of it for you, be sure to have a good playlist on hand. Tunes that were released in the 70’s were on a whole very funky and are perfect for bopping around to on the dancefloor. In addition to creating your own mega mix, why not get your guests involved by having some kind of suggestion box in which to add their favourites. Here are some classics that are sure to get your guests moving:
- “Night Fever”, Bee Gees
- “Hot Stuff”, Donna Summer
- “Macho Man”, Village People
- “Get Up (I Feel Like Being A) Sex Machine, James Brown
- “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough”, Michael Jackson
- Obviously the theme is 70’s so dressing up is a must! Let people know you want to see flares, platforms, and glitter galore. You could even offer a prize for the best dressed. That always ensures some extra effort goes in. make sure to send your invites out well in advance to give people a chance to get their best outfits ready (and brush up on those dancing skills). For anyone that tries to duck out of dressing up you could always have a prop box at the front door that includes a some simple, yet effective accessories for them to quickly don, such as some afro wigs, peace sign necklaces or large sunglasses.
- If you’re throwing a theme party where everyone is kitted out in glitzy gear and the music is pumping some classic groovy tunes, then it’s only right that you should be serving 70’s style snacks too. So, here’s a few ideas to get you started on your nibble list:
- Cheese straws
- Quiche
- Twiglets
- Cocktail sausages
- Vol-au-vents
- Lemon Meringue
- Blancmange
- Decorations. The great thing about the 70s is that everything was so big and bold and filled with colour, which makes planning a 70s themed party a whole lot of fun. A few staple decorations that should be included in any 70’s themed party are:
- Disco ball
- Strobe lights
- Lava lamps
- Vinyl record decorations
- Neon balloons
- Extras. If you get all of the above nailed, then you’re almost guaranteed to have a fantastic disco-themed 70’s party. However, there are few more things you can do to add to the nostalgia. Why not consider some of these:
- Photo booth – while photo booths were around long before the 70’s, they always make a great addition to any party. Add some 70’s props nearby to ensure everyone looks the part and showcase the photos as they’re printed on a nearby wall.
- Party favours – give your guests something to remember the night by handing them party bags as they leave. These don’t need to be anything too extravagant, just a few gimmicky bits and pieces to invoke a little nostalgia, such as disco ball keyrings, inflatable boom boxes, or some flower power necklaces.
- Party games – for a few extra smiles and giggles why not play some classic games with a 70’s twist. For example, why not host a “name that 70’s tune” type gameshow or set up a 70’s slang quiz (with all the animations included of course). Or maybe a Disco themed scavenger hunt is more up your street?
