How to Create an Italian Themed Party

Ask guests to come in costume for a spectacular, Italian-themed party.

Imagine a party where Venetian gondoliers, gangsters and Frank Sinatra lookalikes rub elbows with opera sopranos while enjoying delectable Italian cuisine. Use creativity to plan a successful, Italian-themed party where decorations, entertainment and food all come together and contribute to the mood. Use the invitation to set the theme and allow guests to anticipate a good time at a party with a taste of Italy.

Things You'll Need

• Card stock and markers
• Empty chianti bottles
• Candles or flowers
• Posters of Italy
• Small, Italian flags
• Red, white and green balloons or streamers
• Red and white checked tablecloths and napkins
• Karaoke machine
• Italian food and wine
• Prizes for contests

Instructions

1. Make your own invitations in the shape of a slice of pizza. Provide the date, time and place of the party; ask each guest to come in a costume with an Italian theme.

2. Decorate using the colors of the Italian flag: red, white and green. Turn the room into an Italian oratorio with checked tablecloths and gingham napkins. Use an empty chianti bottle, the Italian table wine, for a centerpiece; fill it with a candle or flowers. Put up posters of famous artifacts of Italy, such as the leaning tower of Pisa and St. Mark's Square. Use small Italian flags for place cards.

3. Set the mood from the minute the guests enter with Italian music like songs from Andrea Bocelli or Luciano Pavarotti. Allow them to munch on heaping mounds of grape clusters, Italian bread and antipasto.

4. Break the ice by teaming up guests and giving them an Italian phrase to figure out. Award a small prize for the best guest costume. Set up a karaoke machine and have guests lip synch or sing along with Italian vocalists like Frankie Valli of the Four Seasons.

5. Serve Italian favorites like eggplant parmesan, lasagna and ravioli, accompanied by a large salad with an olive oil and vinegar dressing. Serve Italian wines like Pinot Grigio, Amarone and Montepulciano to accompany the meal.

6. End the party with a sweet conclusion by serving Italian desserts like cannoli, zabaglione, tiramisu, biscotti and ricotta cheesecake. Present gelato and Italian ices. Espresso and cappuccino go along with Italian desserts. An after dinner drink like limoncello or sambuca with a coffee bean floating on top is an appropriate finishing touch.

References

• Fun Theme Party Ideas: Italian Party Theme
• Fun Themed Party Ideas: Italian Party Ideas