How to Throw a Themed Rave

Raves bring together diverse individuals with a shared interest in high energy music and dancing. Raves parties have become quite popular within youth culture. Plan to make your party stand out from the rest with a theme.

Instructions

1. Select a theme: One to two months in advance, consider the atmosphere you would like for your party. Choose a single theme or variations of a single theme. Themes can be based on a geographic location, a point in time, an event, a holiday, movie and literary characters, or even a color. Incorporate rave toys like flashing jewelry, party sticks, mirrored balls, lighted items, or fog, foam and bubble machines. Creatively incorporate your theme throughout the party.

2. Assemble a team: Although you may find people willing to work for free, be prepared to offer small incentives. Have 4 or 5 workgroups with assigned roles and specific tasks. For example, you may have a Fundraiser Team, Location Team, Advertisement Team, Music & Lights Team or Set-up/Clean-up Team. Each team should consider how to incorporate the theme within their particular tasks.

3. Determine the budget: Rave costs will depend on the size and location of resources. Partner with people willing to contribute money or donate items to avoid or limit use of your personal finances. Keep door charges to a minimum.

4. Advertise to desired participants: During your planning phase, start getting the word out and a buzz started. Whether the rave will be invitation-only or open to the public, be creative in incorporating the theme in flyers, stickers, websites or any other marketing materials.

5. Secure a space: Consider a space that will allow for the full expression of the theme. A beach may be an excellent location for a luau-themed rave. The space should be safe, well-ventilated, and appropriate to the size and entertainment needs of the rave. There should be room for dancing as well as sit-down conversation. Other considerations include accessibility, parking, noise level and any issue that may be problematic for neighboring residents and businesses. Be creative in your location selection. Raves can be held in a variety of venues including rooftops, warehouses, barns and bars.

6. Secure music and other audiovisual elements: Select music, DJs and live bands to further enhance the party theme. Certain music may seem a better fit for a rave set in 4000 A.D. on planet Saturn. Once you have identified the right entertainment, negotiate hours of work, compensation and playlist. Determine whether you will need to rent speakers, monitors, turntables and other sound equipment. Also incorporate the theme in your use of visual effects. Projected slides and light imagery can make an unforgettable rave.

7. Limit effect of drug/alcohol use: Do your best to prevent the abuse of drugs and alcohol during the rave. Prohibit the sell and use of illegal drugs on-site. Be sure that those consuming alcohol are of legal age and not over-doing it. Provide non-alcoholic options, water and snacks for party-goers. Consider having a "chill out" room for those who may have overindulged in drugs and alcohol or suffer from dehydration and exhaustion.

Tips & Warnings

• Security guards can ensure that the party does not get too out of control and keep out unwanted guests.

• Guests and property may be harmed during the rave. Consider liability insurance coverage.

Resources

• Party themes.
• Party themes.
• Rave toys.