Top 5 Through The Decades Party Ideas: From the Roaring 20s to the Grungy 90s

Nothing can beat the thrill of a themed party. What we have in mind when we say a themed party is one dedicated to a specific decade. It’s like time travel without a fancy time machine. All you need is a killer playlist, nostalgic outfits, and décor that transports your guests back in time. No matter what you choose to celebrate – the roaring ’20s, the ’70s, or the neon of the ’80s, a “through the decades” party offers endless fun and creativity.

So, if you want to throw a party that spans multiple eras or focuses on just one unforgettable decade, buckle up! Here are the best through the decades party ideas to help you throw the ultimate decade party – of course, with us included!

Through The Decades Party Ideas

• The Roaring ’20s

Let’s start with a timeless classic, the Roaring 20s’. They were all about jazz, flapper dresses, and high-end glamour. Inspired by the glitz, this decade radiates elegance and excess. Picture chandeliers that glitter, champagne fountains, and endless dancing to live jazz or swing music. It’s sophisticated with a rebellious twist, the perfect mix of glitz for the neverending party.

When we think of vintage decade celebrations, this is the first thing you need to think of – gold and black. A 1920s party needs a lavish atmosphere, and this color scheme is the perfect choice. Remember to add sequined tablecloths, gold-rimmed champagne flutes, and ornate candle holders. You can also use feathers and pearls, but they are not to be worn by people. They are the ultimate decoration piece. Think of them as the most iconic decorative pieces, which bring your centerpiece an authentic touch. Also, you can use some geometric shapes and intricate designs, which were everywhere in the 20s as part of the Art Deco movement. The fun shapes can perfectly fit into your invitations, banners, and party signs.

For some outfit decades ideas, try to go all out – flapper dresses with fringe, sequins, and beads. Add feathered headbands and long, elegant gloves for the ladies. Pinstripe suits and fedoras were all the rage back then, so this is an excellent choice for the males. Don’t forget to accessorize with long cigarette holders, pearls, and spats.

The Roaring 20’ was especially famous for its elegant and irresistible music. Therefore, swing and jazz tunes are an absolute must. From Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington to upbeat Charleston music – this is your way to get everyone dancing.

Moreover, you can think of a secret password for the guests to enter and serve prohibition-era cocktails – such as gin fizz. So, what are you waiting for – the Cabana Boys would love to be your drink fetcher for the night, with the most popular drinks of the Jazz age!

• The Hippie ‘60s

Everyone is familiar with the theme on this one – peace, love, and rock ‘n’ roll! The ’60s brought us the counterculture revolution, groovy tie-dye, and flower power. It is time to feel those Woodstock vibes, throw in some psychedelic décor, and create the ultimate ’60s party.

To get the most out of our through the decades party ideas, start from the beginning – with the décor. Add some interesting tie-dye details, such as tablecloths or colorful napkins. If you really want to get into the 60’s era, consider lava lamps and psychedelic posters for extra flair. Also, don’t forget the flowers and the peace signs. These are perfect for creating that laid-back, hippie vibe.

Now, let’s get into those famous free-born outfit ideas. We recommend long and flowy dresses, fringe vests, flower crowns for the party girls, tie-dye shirts, and round sunglasses as a perfect match for the boys. Of course, peace sign necklaces and plenty of beaded jewelry are a must, and these things truly add to the spirit of the free decade.

The era-themed party music should be as revolutionary and fun as it looks. The perfect hippies 60s party couldn’t start without Beatles, Janis Joplin, The Rolling Stones, and Jimi Hendrix on the playlist. Therefore, contact us, and we’ll sort out the details.

Last but not least, let’s talk about the activities you should have at your 60’s party. One of the things you can do is create a DIY tie-dye station where guests can tie-dye T-shirts, headbands, or bags as souvenirs. What you can also do is have someone create the perfect time travel sip – this is where we come into the picture. We can be your bartender and DJ so you can enjoy partying all night long!

• The Burning ‘70s

The Burning 70s have probably been the most popular through the decades party ideas and for a good reason! It is very easy to recreate, and the music from this decade is oh-so just amazing! The ’70s were all about disco balls, glitter, and dance floors that lit up beneath your feet. So we recommend trying the channel Studio 54 with flashy outfits, groovy music, and lots of dancing. Remember, you want to aim for something completely over the top!

But first thing first, let’s cover the outfit decades ideas. The disco queens of the ’70s always wore sequined jumpsuits, platform shoes, and big hair. Meanwhile, the men – channel the fashion from Saturday Night Fever with a white suit, bell-bottom pants, and gold chains. Our suggestion for both of you – if sequins aren’t your thing, throw on some bell-bottom jeans and a paisley shirt for a casual ’70s look.

Now that we have that covered, let’s talk about the décor. It only seems fitting to add as many sparkles to the burning 70s, right? No ’70s party is complete without a giant disco ball (or several mini ones.) Use them as table centerpieces or hang them on the ceiling. Then, move on to the lighting (this is an important part since the ‘70s were all about colors.) Rent or create your own light-up dance floor, and you’ll instantly feel like you’re at a true disco. Also, use glittered streamers and mirrored surfaces to make everything sparkle even more.

If you thought that the music bit was easy for the ‘60s, wait till you see the playlist here! We got ABBA, The Bee Gees, Donna Summer, and Chic. Keep the party groovy with non-stop disco hits.

For the ultimate fun part, you can have a dance-off. We would love to join you, dance with you, and help you steal the thunder!

• The New Wave ‘80s

So many people love the ‘80s, which is why it had some of the most popular through the decade party ideas and the most recreated. The ’80s were a decade of bold fashion, bigger hair, and electronic beats. It was all about neon colors, synthesizers, and shoulder pads. Throwing this kind of party is the perfect excuse to embrace the loudest and most outrageous trends in fashion and music. The bolder, the better!

Since it was the loudest era, it is normally to begin with music. Begin the night with Michael Jackson or David Bowie and slowly move to something more dynamic like Prince, Madonna, and Duran Duran. 

Of course, we must not décor of the vintage decade celebrations. Add some neon lights – pinks, greens, and blues should be everywhere. Use neon streamers, glow sticks, and light-up signs for that perfect electric feel. While you’re at it, add some boom boxes and cassette tapes. To make the feeling even better, get the iconic ’80s puzzles – these are perfect for décor or party favors.

The outfit should be daring and interesting – for the ladies, neon leggings, off-the-shoulder sweatshirts, scrunchies, and leg warmers are the best. Also, the crimped hair and bold blue eyeshadow will bring the good old memories! Meanwhile, men choose tracksuits, acid-wash jeans, and graphic T-shirts. Add in some high-top sneakers for that full retro look.

Now let’s talk about the party itself. Set up a karaoke station where guests can sing some of the ’80s classics like “Don’t Stop Believin'” or “Like a Virgin.” For a resident DJ, think Cabana Boys – we’d be happy to hold the mic and play some music for you!

• The Grungy ‘90s

Ah, the ’90s – a decade of grunge, boy bands, and iconic teen movies. From flannel shirts and Doc Martens to crop tops and chokers, the ’90s had a fashion identity like no other. A ’90s party is your chance to throw it back to MTV, Blockbuster nights, and the height of pop culture.

The décor part for this kind of party is easy – throw in some beanbag chairs and inflatable furniture. Bring back those inflatable chairs for that full-on ’90s teen bedroom look. You can also hang some CDs from the ceiling or use them as part of your table décor. Finally, neon signs and mood lighting should be added to really grasp that ’90s party vibe.

For the outfits – ladies, opt for skirts and knee-high socks or channel grunge with ripped jeans, band tees, and flannel shirts. For the men, choose jeans, windbreakers, and hats. Or go full-on boy band with frosted tips and puka shell necklaces.

The era-themed party music is probably something you already listen to on a monthly basis, but still, let’s make a little summary – Spice Girls, Nirvana, Britney Spears, and TLC. Alternate between grunge rock and pop anthems for the ultimate ’90s throwback playlist.

For the ultimate fun touch, create a trivia game with ’90s TV shows, movies, and music. See who remembers the most about this iconic decade. We can help you be the perfect host and entertain the guests!

Book The Cabana Boys For Some Time-Traveling Action Through The Decades!

With so many through the decades party ideas, you should remember two things – you will have the time of your life, and our services are the perfect addition to it! Contact Cabana Boys so we can talk about the details!