How to Host a Halloween Party for Teens

Teens love horror movies--the scarier, the better. There are so many horror movies, that a night of movie watching can be easily planned. Movies such as "Scream," "Scream 2," "Scream 3" or the "Friday the 13th" and "Nightmare on Elm Street" series will certainly please a horror-thirsty group. Add in character costumes, trivia games about the characters, scary decorations and fun food, and you can host a Halloween party any teen will enjoy.

Things You'll Need

• Horror movies
• Decorations based on the chosen movies
• Candles
• Halloween-themed food
• Trivia game ideas
• Prizes

Instructions

1. Pick out a set of movies to watch, such as "Nightmare on Elm Street" or "Friday the 13th." Two or three movies will be enough. Send out invitations telling the teens they must pick out a character from the movie set and dress up as that character. They must also learn everything they can about the character's role in the movie, so they can become the actor in a trivia game.

2. Create the trivia game. Each character will stand up and give background on who they are. Then it's the audience's turn to stump the character. They will ask questions, and if they stump the character, they win a prize. Play this game before the movies begin. Prizes can be silly gifts or items the kids can use for school. Money is always a good prize for teens.

3. Decorate the house like the movie. You may have a hockey mask, a haunted house, a chainsaw, a summer camp or whatever emulates the movie. Add candles, low lights and eerie music to set the mood for the evening. Greet your guests at the door dressed as one of the characters. Stay in the role for the evening.

4. Prepare food that is based on orange and black, or go for something ghoulish. Use a black cloth on the table with orange candles. Place spiderwebs around the food with black plastic spiders. Drinks can be coke and orange soda for a color theme, or try powdered drinks mixed in colors like green or blue. Popcorn mixed with corn candy is a great treat while watching the movie. Decorate a cake with black icing and serve the food on black plates. Because teens love snacks, make sure you have the usual chips and dip, but place them in holiday-decorated bowls (see Resources below).

5. Ask your teen and a few friends to help plan the party. Their input will be important. Remember to collect car keys at the door and watch your guests to make sure no one sneaks in alcoholic beverages. Make your home a safe haven for teens to have fun.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask your teen and a few friends to help plan the party.

• Remember to collect car keys at the door and watch your guests to make sure no one sneaks in alcoholic beverages. Make your home a safe haven for teens to have fun.

Resources

• Halloween Recipes