Arabian Nights Theme Parties

Arabian Nights theme parties are typically inspired by the book One Thousand and One Arabian Nights, which is a collection of stories on the kingdoms of India, Persia and Arabia. Based on a group of stories that consist of fairy tales, fables, legends and parables of characters that lived in locations throughout Middle Eastern countries.

Significance

An Arabian nights theme party can transport guests into a fairytale to feel as if they are in a palace setting full of magic and mystery. This theme is perfect for children's parties, and has some things in common with the prince and princess theme. An Arabian Nights theme party can also create a fun atmosphere for adult parties, with belly dancing and Arabian styled music. These parties are meant to create a sense of mystery and intrigue surrounding princes, princesses and thieves. From golden palaces to magic carpet rides, most information pertaining to the Arabian Nights theme is a combination of both fictional and historical settings and characters.

Benefits

An Arabian nights theme party offers a versatile and broad range of decorating and food options. Have guests participate in Arabian Nights inspired games, such as perfume bottle ring tosses, obstacle courses and treasure hunts involving genie lamps and gold coins. This party also has the option of being transformed into a costume party by having guests arrive in clothing with silky designs and jeweled highlights. Female guests can also wear silky Arabian princess inspired pants with sleeveless princess tops, as well as a jeweled headband to complete the look. Male guests could wear brocade styled vests, silk gold belts and turbans.

Features

Recreate the look of a mini palace by draping rich colored fabric from the ceiling and the walls. Adorn tables with Persian rugs to replicate magic carpets, or drape tables with silky gold or deep purple table cloths. Adorn the party area with treasure chests filled with faux jewels and costume jewelry as these can also serve as party favors for guests to take home. Genie bottles scattered throughout the party area also add "Arabian Nights" flair. Keep the table setting toned in gold with plates and chalets that have jeweled highlights. Serve Arabian inspired food such as pita bread with olive oil and feta cheese, couscous and fruit kabobs for dessert. Have a fortune teller set up and a real or fake snake charmer to perform at the party.

Function

Be sure to send out guest invitations about the party and encourage them to dress in costume. Note that you will be hosting an Arabian nights themed party. Holding the party in the late afternoon or evening is essential in keeping up with the Arabian "nights" theme. Having sand boxes filled with lanterns or tea lights will replicate a desert backdrop and will assist in creating an Arabian Nights atmosphere.

Effects

Making sure that guests get a true feel for the Arabian Nights from the music, the food and the types of activities similar to that from the stories of One Thousand and One Arabian Nights is essential in keeping up with the overall theme. Allow guests to take home some of the decorative items from the party. Take pictures of the party and the guests' interaction with one another to create an Arabian Nights themed scrapbook.

Resources

• Arabian Nights Party Themes
• One Thousand and One Arabian Nights