Are you throwing a 90s theme party and eager to transport your guests back to the the golden era of scrunchies, dial-up internet, and Tamagotchis? Full of ideas, tips and tricks, see this guide is your starting point to hosting a 90s theme extravaganza that'll have your guests dancing the Macarena all night long.
So let’s jump in!
Setting the Scene: Throwback Decor
First things first, let's talk decor. We're talking neon signs, inflatable furniture, and geometric shapes – basically, anything that screams '90s chic. And hey, why not sprinkle in some classic memorabilia like cassette tapes and pogs for an extra dose of nostalgia? Pro tip: hit up thrift stores for some budget-friendly finds or get crafty with some DIY projects. Did you know you could make your own lava lamp using just water, oil, and food colouring? Ok, so you have to keep adding salt or effervescent to keep the effect going but I still thought it was pretty cool. Here’s the recipe:
Ingredients:
A clear plastic or glass bottle (such as a soda bottle)
Water
Vegetable oil
Food coloring
Effervescent tablets (such as Alka-Seltzer)
Instructions:
Fill the bottle about three-quarters full with vegetable oil.
In a separate container, mix water with a few drops of food colouring. Stir to combine.
Pour the coloured water into the bottle with the vegetable oil. Leave some space at the top.
Break an effervescent tablet into small pieces and drop them into the bottle.
The tablet will react with the water, creating bubbles that rise through the oil, resembling lava lamp blobs.
If the bubbles stop rising, simply add another piece of the effervescent tablet to keep the lava lamp effect going.
Dress to Impress: Iconic Costumes
Now onto the fun part – costumes! Channel your inner Cher Horowitz with a preppy plaid skirt or rock out like Kurt Cobain in a grungy flannel. The fashion possibilities from the 90s are endless, so don't be afraid to get creative. And of course, no outfit is complete without accessories – slap on a slap bracelet, don a choker necklace, and top it all off with a scrunchie for that quintessential '90s flair.
“Pump Up the Jams”: Soundtrack Suggestions
What's a party without a killer playlist? Cue the Spice Girls, Britney Spears, and Backstreet Boys – these pop sensations are guaranteed to get the party started. From "Wannabe" to "No Diggity," the '90s produced some of the most iconic hits of all time. And hey, why not throw in some commercials and TV show theme songs for a trip down memory lane?
For playlist ideas check out our 90s theme party ultimate playlist.
Taste the 90s: Throwback Snacks and Drinks
No '90s theme party would be complete without a spread of classic snacks and drinks from the decade. We're talking Space Raiders, Nik Naks and Rainbow Drops galore. And let's not forget about the iconic beverages – Sunny Delight, Panda Pops, and Capri Sun, anyone? Mix up some themed cocktails like a Cosmopolitan à la Sex and the City or a Blue Hawaiian inspired by Saved by the Bell. Just be sure to have plenty of Surge on hand – you're gonna need it!
Party Like It's 1999: Games and Activities
Keep the good times rolling with a lineup of fun games and activities inspired by the '90s. Test your guests' knowledge with some '90s trivia or set up a DIY photo booth complete with props like inflatable guitars and oversized sunglasses. And no '90s party would be complete without a dance-off to your favorite boy band tunes – just be sure to break out the choreographed moves!
Lights, Camera, Action: Movie Marathon Suggestions
If your party is going to be more of an intimate affair, why not wrap up the night with a cozy movie marathon featuring all your favourite flicks from the '90s. Whether you're a fan of cult classics like Clueless or blockbuster hits like Titanic, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Set up a makeshift movie theatre complete with blankets, pillows, and plenty of popcorn, and settle in for a night of nostalgia.
Get Crafty: Throwback Crafts and DIY Projects
Get your hands dirty with some fun crafts and DIY projects inspired by the '90s. Channel your inner artist with some tie-dye T-shirts or get creative with some DIY scrunchies and hair accessories. Set up a crafting station where guests can decorate their own CD coasters or mixtapes!
Party Like It's 1999... Online: Virtual '90s Party Tips
Can't be together in person? No problem! Host a virtual '90s theme party and bring the nostalgia straight to your living room. Set the mood with a themed Zoom background featuring iconic '90s imagery like neon lights and cassette tapes. Keep guests engaged with online games and activities like virtual trivia and karaoke sing-alongs – because even if you're miles apart, you can still party like it's 1999!
Test Your Knowledge: '90s Trivia and Prizes
Finally, no '90s theme party would be complete without a little friendly competition. Put your guests' knowledge of the decade to the test with a round of '90s trivia. Offer up some rad prizes like vintage toys or '90s-themed merch for the winners. And remember, it's not about who knows the most – it's about having fun and celebrating all the things that made the '90s so totally awesome!
There you have it, a few ideas for your next '90s theme party. Relive the glory days of the decade that brought us boy bands, butterfly clips, and Beanie Babies. Whether you're throwing a bash for your closest friends or hosting a virtual get-together with loved ones from afar, these tips and ideas are sure to make your party a blast from the past. So grab your scrunchies, dust off your Tamagotchi, and get ready to party like it's 1999!
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