How to Host a 70'S Party

A disco ball is an instant mood-setter for hosting any 70's party.

There's so many ways to plan a party around a 70s theme, from glam to humorous. You don't need to spend a lot on decorations or music, since you can find many things in second-hand stores or maybe even your own closet. The only thing a 70s party really requires, like any party, is that everyone have fun.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Choose a 70s theme. There are many ways to decorate and theme a 70s party. Decide on either a theme within the 70s theme, a color scheme or something that will bring all of your 70s decorations together. Some ideas for a 70s party theme include disco, 70s celebrities, fondue party, 70s movies, 70's luau, roller rink or 70's pool party.

2. Find decorations and a costume. Party supply stores are a great starting point, but don't stop your search there. Flea markets, second-hand stores, garage sales and online auctions are great places to find party decor and a 70s costume for yourself. Look for popular 70s colors, like rust orange and olive green, as well as fabrics with 70s designs that you can use as tablecloths, furniture throws and tied-on pillow covers. Pick up some inexpensive vintage glassware to fill with party snacks. Pea-green bowls and brown and orange mugs are easy to find at second-hand stores and yard sales. Don't forget that great symbol of the 70's--the disco ball. A lot of party supply stores have imitation disco balls that are quite affordable.

3. Set the tone right from the start with 70s-theme invitations. Make your own paper invitations with tie-dye colors, peace signs, smiley faces or other 70s symbols. If you find a lot of a 70s type items when searching for party decor, such as a great stack of clothing patterns or 8-track tapes, turn them into unique invitations.

4. Plan the music and any activities. Whether you're using CDs, an MP3 player or good old vinyl records, plan out some great 70s music to set and keep the mood of your party. If you're having trouble coming up with enough songs, visit a few 70s themed websites like Super Seventies and Pop Culture Madness. Links to these sites are in the Resources section.If you are going to have any activities, like a costume contest, limbo, disco dance-off or 70's trivia contest, plan them out and gather any needed supplies.

5. Prepare the food, decorate and set out dinnerware. As much as possible, prepare the food and drinks the day before the party. Also the day ahead, decorate and set out any party supplies like plates, napkins and cups. By preparing as much as possible ahead of time, you will be able to chill out, relax and enjoy hosting your 70s party.

Tips & Warnings

• They might break the 70's theme a little bit, but consider handing out disposable cameras as party favors so guests can get shots of themselves and you in their 70's getups.

• Don't stress. If something doesn't work out the way you planned, remember to just "chill" and have fun anyway. The only thing that can really ruin your party is if you don't have fun.

Resources

• Super Seventies hit singles
• Pop Culture Madness hits of the 70's