Foods for a Disco Party

Before you don the disco boots and style your Afro just right, you'll need to do a little planning for your disco party. Many of the foods that were popular in the 1970s--when disco ruled--are still available, so it's not difficult to get your guests in the right mood.

Simple Foods

Whether it's a theme party or a simple get-together, finger foods and single-serving items are always a hit. When you're planning your party, go for foods that will fit nicely on a small-size plate. Make things that won't be too messy--you don't want those vintage disco clothes getting stained. And try to make foods that don't require cutlery. People who are coming back and forth from under the disco ball probably won't save their fork.

History

The 1970s were a time of shifting culture in the United States. Young people were traveling a lot more than their parents had, bringing back the foods and styles of far-flung locales. As a result, foods from Asia, Europe and beyond began to make their way to the American table. Naturally, this changed the style of party food people served. Keep this in mind when you're planning the party.

Popular Foods

Since disco was in its heyday in the 1970s, foods from this era will work well at a disco party. Generally, any popular food from that decade would fit in well. Some examples of popular party foods of the time include:

Fondue, with cheese or chocolate
Mini hot dogs
Swedish meatballs
Olives and other pickled condiments
Butterfly shrimp
Guacamole with chips
Mini kabobs

Drinks

World-influenced drinks became popular in the 1970s, so world beverages like margaritas or martinis can be a good idea for your party. Perrier was introduced to the United States at this time. A punchbowl filled with rainbow punch or daquiries is also a good choice.

Party Favors

To dress up your food and drinks, think 1970s for your dishes and decorations, too. Consider putting your punch in a bowl that looks like a disco ball. Dress up the food table with a few lava lamps. Buy bowls or napkins with a tie-dye look to them, or choose items with the yellow smiley face that was so popular during this era.

References

• Far-Flung Locales
• The 1970s; Kelly Boyer Sagert; 2007

Resources

• Food Timeline