When it comes to adult nights out, hitting the bar has been a longstanding and culturally ingrained social activity (just think of iconic TV shows like Cheers and How I Met Your Mother). However, sticking to the standard bar scene can eventually become monotonous, and there’s a world of exciting alternatives to explore when planning a party. Hosting a themed party at your home, for instance, can be an absolute blast.
Now, before you dismiss the idea, envision the joy of having your friends show up dressed in ’90s gear for an epic dance party featuring all the classic hits from that decade. Or picture them scouring your neighborhood, deciphering clues during an exhilarating scavenger hunt. Not only will these get-togethers create unforgettable memories, but they’ll also provide valuable insights into your group’s dynamics, far beyond what you’d experience while simply waiting for the next round at a bar.
To spark your creativity and introduce you to a world of party possibilities, we’ve compiled a list of 10 fun things to do at a party. These ideas will not only inject excitement and energy into your gatherings but also foster a deeper sense of connection among your friends. So, get ready to step outside the typical bar scene and explore these fantastic party concepts that will leave everyone talking about your events for years to come.
Have a Themed Dance-Off
Transport your party back in time by choosing a specific decade, be it the groovy ’60s or the nostalgic ’90s, and curate a playlist of iconic hit songs from that era. Invite your friends to join in on the fun by showing up dressed in stylish outfits from that time period. Once everyone is in their retro attire, get the dance party started, incorporating historically accurate dance moves that were all the rage during that particular decade. For instance, if you opt for the swinging ’60s, make sure everyone gets their groove on with “The Twist” and other popular dances from that era. This immersive and entertaining experience will have your guests enjoying a unique and unforgettable trip down memory lane, creating cherished memories together that will last a lifetime.
Plan an At-Home Trivia Night
Gather a lively group of friends and form designated teams for an exciting trivia night. To make the game even more engaging, choose someone to be the MC, leading the quiz with enthusiasm and flair. For a close-knit group, incorporate some trivia questions that are inside jokes, adding a touch of personalized fun to the mix. For instance, you can quiz everyone with questions like “What’s Stephanie’s biggest fear?” – a delightful way to evoke laughter and shared memories.
As you enjoy the spirited competition, keep the party atmosphere alive with some classic bar food favorites. Think of serving up delicious pizzas to fuel the fun and keep everyone’s energy high throughout the night. A combination of brain-teasing questions, laughter, and tasty bar food will undoubtedly create a memorable and enjoyable trivia night for everyone.
Opt for Board Games
If it’s been a while since you’ve indulged in classic board games like Sorry! and Life, why not invite a small group of friends over for a delightful and innocent dose of fun? Gather around the table, roll the dice, and immerse yourselves in these nostalgic games that bring back cherished memories.
As you play, make sure to keep the competition light-hearted and friendly. Embrace the joy of the game and the camaraderie among friends. But be on the lookout for any playful cheaters who might try to bend the rules for their advantage—after all, a little mischief is all part of the board game fun!
Rekindling your love for these timeless classics will not only entertain you but also provide an opportunity for meaningful bonding and laughter.
On a Budget? Play Charades
Indeed, there’s an undeniable charm in witnessing loved ones silently act out famous people, movies, and books in a game of charades. The laughter and excitement that ensue are truly captivating. When planning a charades night, ensure that you select examples that are universally recognized by everyone.
Gather your friends and family, and let the hilarity unfold as each person takes their turn to express characters, scenes, or book titles without uttering a word. The challenge of conveying these well-known references through gestures and facial expressions adds a delightful element of creativity and amusement to the game.
Whether it’s impersonating iconic movie characters like James Bond or imitating classic book titles like “Harry Potter,” the joy of charades lies in the shared familiarity of the references. This inclusive and entertaining activity is bound to create cherished memories and bring everyone closer together.
So, set the stage for a laughter-filled charades night, and get ready to revel in the art of non-verbal communication as your loved ones display their acting prowess. It’s a timeless game that never fails to amuse and connect people, making it the perfect addition to any gathering.
Ask Everyone to Bring Their “Signature Dish”
Add a creative twist to the traditional potluck by hosting a “Feast of Favorites” party. Invite your friends and ask them to prepare the dish they feel most confident in making. The result will be a delightful spread of each person’s specialty dishes, showcasing their culinary talents and personal favorites.
Before the event, request a list of the dishes your friends plan to bring so that you can coordinate and fill in any gaps to ensure a diverse and well-rounded feast. This way, you can avoid duplicates and make sure that there is a delightful assortment of dishes for everyone to enjoy.
The “Feast of Favorites” is not only a fantastic way to savor an array of delectable dishes but also a wonderful opportunity for your friends to showcase their culinary prowess and share their cherished recipes. As you indulge in the delicious food and enjoy each other’s company, you’ll create lasting memories of a gathering filled with love, laughter, and a celebration of everyone’s culinary talents.
Gather ‘Round a Bonfire
If you’re fortunate enough to have an outdoor space, why not take advantage of it and host a charming and relaxed party around a bonfire? Set up a cozy bonfire for your friends to gather around, providing the perfect ambiance for a warm and inviting get-together. Enhance the comfort level by offering blankets to keep everyone snug and comfortable throughout the evening.
To add a delightful touch to the gathering, bring out the classic s’mores ingredients. Toast marshmallows over the crackling flames and assemble the iconic treat with graham crackers and chocolate. This simple yet indulgent activity will bring out the kid in everyone and foster a sense of togetherness as you share the delectable snacks.
The bonfire party is an excellent way to unwind, connect with friends, and create cherished memories under the stars. The soothing glow of the fire, combined with the joy of making and enjoying s’mores, will undoubtedly make this a night to remember.
Set up a DIY Bar
Take the stress out of making cocktails for your guests by setting up a DIY bar that lets them unleash their inner mixologists. Create a well-stocked bar with all the essentials, just like a professional mixologist would have—a cocktail shaker, fresh citrus fruits, a variety of spirits, and an assortment of glassware.
Your DIY bar will undoubtedly be a hit among your guests, as they can customize their drinks to their liking. From classic cocktails to creative concoctions, everyone can experiment and enjoy their personalized beverages. This setup not only saves you time and effort but also adds an interactive and fun element to the party.
Ensure your bar area is well-organized and visually appealing, making it a standout feature of your event. Guests will appreciate the freedom to craft their own drinks, and it will add a unique and memorable touch to your gathering.
Throw an Ice Cream Social
If you prefer a booze-free gathering, why not host a delightful ice cream social that will be loved by everyone? Coordinate the event by inviting your guests to each bring a pint of their favorite ice cream flavor. Set up a charming table with an array of delicious toppings, ranging from sprinkles and chocolate sauce to fresh fruits and whipped cream.
To add a nostalgic twist to the party, don’t forget to include root beer and soda in case someone craves a classic root beer float. This sweet and refreshing treat will be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
The ice cream social is a fantastic way to indulge in delectable desserts while fostering a sense of community as everyone gathers around to create their personalized ice cream masterpieces. It’s a delightful and inclusive gathering that celebrates the joy of sweet treats and cherished company.
Create an Outdoor Theater
Transform your backyard into a charming outdoor cinema by setting up a projection screen on the side of your house or any suitable surface. Create a cozy movie night experience for your friends and loved ones, and let the nostalgia flow as you showcase a classic film that will delight everyone.
To add a delightful touch to the movie night, set up a popcorn bar that will take the experience to the next level. Offer a variety of sweet and salty mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, caramel drizzle, pretzels, and more. Your guests can personalize their popcorn to their liking, making the movie night even more enjoyable.
The outdoor movie night is a perfect way to relax under the stars, savor a classic film, and enjoy each other’s company. The enchanting atmosphere and delightful popcorn bar will undoubtedly make this a memorable and cherished gathering for all.
Sing Karaoke
Why go to a karaoke bar when you can bring the party to your home? Rent a karaoke machine and unleash your inner superstar in the comfort of familiar surroundings. Singing your heart out to your favorite tunes is much easier when you’re not performing in front of strangers. So, gather your friends, pick your go-to jams, and get ready for a night filled with laughter, fun, and unforgettable performances.
For an extra dose of excitement, consider giving out awards at the end of the karaoke night, just like the Grammys. Crown your friends with titles like “Best Pop Solo,” “Most Energetic Performance,” or “Rockstar of the Night.” This playful and lighthearted addition will elevate the karaoke experience to a whole new level and create a friendly competition among your friends.
Hosting a karaoke night at home allows everyone to let loose, showcase their singing talents (or lack thereof!), and bond over a shared love of music. It’s a fantastic way to create lasting memories and celebrate the joy of music and friendship.