1930s Themed Party
The Great Depression and the Dust Bowl had a tremendous impact on the country in the early part of the 1930s, while the gathering clouds of World War II shadowed the later years of the decade. For successful 1930s party themes, look to the entertainment world for a lighter mood. Does this Spark an idea?
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Radio
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Even families hit hard by the Depression often had access to radios. For a 1930s radio party, play recordings of vintage radio programs; set up cozy areas where guests can sit and listen. Offer games based on radio entertainment of the era, such as trivia contests or matching radio stars to show titles. Offer simple, homey foods of the time; the website Lisa's Nostalgia Café (see Resources) lists food and beverages popular or introduced during the '30s.
Movies
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Pick a movie or an entire genre of '30s films as the theme for your party. Decorate with reproduction posters and photos of the films' stars. Stage a "preview" of a film or make up your own Academy Awards event for movies that span the decade. Iconic 1930s movies include monster or horror movies like "King Kong," "Frankenstein" or "Dracula;" gangster movies like "The Public Enemy" or "Little Caesar;" musicals like "42nd Street" and the Fred Astaire/Ginger Rogers films; and screwball comedies like "A Night at the Opera," "My Man Godfrey" and "Bringing Up Baby."
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Nightlife
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Some citizens of the 1930s enjoyed the high life at swanky nightclubs such as the Savoy, the Cotton Club and Coconut Grove. The Swing Era began, the Lindy Hop was popular and stars such as Duke Ellington, Bennie Goodman and Ella Fitzgerald entertained. Recreate an evening at one of these hot spots with glitzy decorations and period food, cocktails and music. Invite guests to "put on the Ritz" with flashy dress.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit old radio image by Goran Bogicevic from Fotolia.com
