If you are a fan of retro vibe, leather outfit, or rock ‘n’ roll, then a 50s Theme Party offers the perfect mix. Whether you are thinking about a casual get-together or a bigger celebration, a 50s-inspired gathering offers something for everyone.
To make your event a hit, we’ve gathered 36 fantastic ideas for a 50s theme party in this blog. From fun outfits and retro decorations to delicious classic food and drinks, we at CustomAny cover all the essentials for throwing an unforgettable event. So, let’s dive into the best ways to bring back the golden age of rock ‘n’ roll!
10 Best Decorations for 50s Theme Party
The decorations at a 50s Theme Party are the most important as in any other decades theme parties if you want to create the atmosphere. We have 10 best 50s theme party decorations ideas for you:
1. Vinyl Record Garlands
Let’s string old records together to instantly create DIY 50s garlands:
- Use classic black or colorful records to match your theme.
- Create a cascading or circular arrangement to make them more interesting.
You can hang these strings across walls or from the ceiling along the way that guests need to walk by to go into the center of your party.
2. Retro Posters
Gathering some vintage rock and roll theme and movie posters because they are a must for your 50s theme party decoration ideas. Think about the icons of this era like:
- Elvis Presley
- James Dean
- Marilyn Monroe.
Want a polished look? You can frame or laminate these posters, then hang them near the food or seating areas so they catch everyone’s eyes.
3. Neon-Effect Signs
Neon signs are iconic for the 50s. You should use retro slogans or movie quotes for these Custom neon-effect signs. Consider phrases like “Good Vibes” or “Rock On” to brighten up your space.
4. Checkerboard Floor Pattern
How about a retro checkerboard floor? If you already have black-and-white tiles floor, it’s great. If you don’t, use roll-out mats for an easy installation.
5. Jukebox Centerpiece
A jukebox adds that nostalgic touch to your 50s theme party. It will be a great centerpiece or serve as photo accessories.
If you decide to use jukeboxes, choose a battery-operated version for easy setup. Then place it near the main gathering areas.
6. Classic Car Cutouts Backdrop
A classic 50s car cutout can be used as a fun photo backdrop. You can personalize it with:
- License plate stickers for extra detail.
- Vinyl die cut stickers featuring texts for adding fun messages or names.
After decorating these cutouts, place them at the entrance or photo area.
7. Milkshake Props
The next props you should try are oversized milkshake decorations. The easiest and most affordable way to make these props is to use foam or cardboard.
8. Checkerboard Table Runners
For the dining table, consider adding checkerboard-patterned table runners to complete the 50s look.
9. Matching Napkins and Utensils
After a table runner, you should stock up some retro-themed napkins and utensils. These items can instantly bring the 50s style to your table. We recommend using matching designs and pair them with diner-style plates for a full retro look.
10. Diner Signs
How about a diner sign with phrases like “Soda Fountain” or “Rock ‘n’ Roll Diner.” You can use a plain wooden sign and customize it using DTF transfer stickers. These stickers come with a sleek look and luxury feel, allowing you to personalize the sign with any phrase or image that you like.
7 Stylish 50s Outfits & Accessories to help you shine
The right outfit and accessories can make all the difference at a 50s Theme Party. You need to find your own outstanding attire, as well as help your guest to find their 50s theme party outfits if they can’t come up with any ideas. Let’s take a look at some suggestions to have a fully embrace the rock ‘n’ roll, retro vibes:
11. Poodle Skirts
Poodle skirts are a must for 50s, and they should be the star of your outfit at a 50s Theme Party.
12. Custom Jackets
Custom jackets with personalized embroidery or patches bring a personal touch to the classic 50s look. You should consider letterman jackets or leather options.
13. Cat-Eye Glasses
Cat-eye glasses are the perfect accessory for a truly 50s theme party look. Want to make it fun? Use holographic stickers to add some sparkle to plain frames.
14. Bowling Shirts
Consider wearing bowling shirts with fun, vibrant colors. You can mix this shirt with cuffed pants for a night out.
15. Retro Hair Accessories
How about hairstyle? There are many accessories that can complete your look, such as bandanas or hair scarves featuring polka dots or vintage prints.
16. Vintage Ties
Vintage ties with bold, geometric patterns are a timeless 50s accessory for men. They say nothing but a cool, classic vibe.
17. Headbands with Records
A fun, quirky accessory for your 50s Theme Party—headbands adorned with small vinyl records!
10 Delicious 50s Theme Party Food & Drink Ideas
Nothing says more about a 50s Theme Party than fun food and drinks that evoke the vibe of diners and drive-ins. For such party, you should serve your guests with:
18. Mini Burgers & Fries
Mini burgers are perfect for guests to grab and enjoy while mingling at your 50s theme party. Let’s provide them with sliders and tiny fry cartons, which create the authentic feel of a fast food diner vibe.
19. Hot Dogs
Hot dogs are a classic at any 50s diner. So, in your 50s theme party, serve them. Besides, don’t forget common toppings like mustard, ketchup, and relish.
20. Pizza Slices
Pizza was a favorite comfort food in the 50s. To bring everyone to that era, consider wrapping pizza slices in retro-themed wax paper with the party name printed on.
21. Classic Candy Jars
Fill some glass jars with 50s favorites like
- Tootsie Rolls
- Atomic Fireballs
- Licorice
- …
Next, label these jars with our clear stickers, which blend seamlessly with transparent surfaces. These stickers should feature vintage candy logos in a true 50s feel.
22. Cupcakes with Records
Serving cupcakes and topping them with edible record designs, or attach small paper records using custom circle stickers.
23. Popcorn
Popcorn is an easy snack for your 50s Theme Party. Serve it in retro-style tubs, just like at a classic movie theater.
24. Milkshakes & Malts
When it comes to 50s theme party ideas for drinks, you can offer milkshakes in various flavors like chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry flavors. Then, add striped straws to give the milkshakes a 50s-inspired look.
25. Root Beer Floats
Next, consider root beer floats. You can serve thí drink in mason jars with retro-style straws. This sweet, fizzy drink was a big hit in the 1950s theme party.
26. Soda
Classic sodas like Coca-Cola, Fanta, and 7UP are essential to any 50s-themed party.
27. Cocktails
For adult guests, classic cocktails are preferable. Try whiskey sours or gin fizzes to give your 50s Theme Party the perfect vintage taste.
4 Exciting 50s Theme Party Activities & Games
For a 50s Theme Party, it’s important to keep the fun rolling with activities. We have some ideas for you:
28. Jukebox Dance
Set up a jukebox or create a playlist of 50s hits, then encourage everyone to dance to these rock ‘n’ roll classics.
29. Rockabilly Pin-Up Contest
Host a pin-up contest where guests dress in rockabilly-style outfits. Categories like “Most Retro” or “Best Elvis Impersonation” will get everyone into the 50s spirit. You could even use custom stickers as prizes or to add extra flair to the photo booth backdrop.
30. Bubble Gum Blowing Contest
A bubble gum contest in which we compete to see who can blow the biggest bubble promises to be a joyful activity at any 50s Theme Party.
31. Rock ‘n’ Roll Blind Karaoke
Set up a karaoke stage where guests tủn their back at the screen. Tủn on the music and let them guess, then sing rock ‘n’ roll song. This activity will bring out the best in everyone!
5 Party Favors ideas for the most memorable 50s theme party
When it comes to wrapping up your 50s Theme Party, party favors are a great way to leave your guests with lasting memories.
32. Custom Vinyl Records
Decorate some mini vinyl records with personalized messages or fun designs using custom vinyl stickers and give them to your guests. These records will be cute keepsakes that guests bring home after your unique 50s Theme Party.
33. Retro Sunglasses
Fun, vintage-inspired sunglasses, whether it’s cat-eye or wayfarer styles, are the best 50s party favors.
34. Candy Bags
Pack retro candies like Tootsie Rolls or Atomic Fireballs into paper bags. Then, use die-cut vinyl stickers with nostalgic candy logos to seal the bag and give these little treats a vintage look.
35. Mini Soda Bottles
Another idea is to offer mini soda bottles as a fun party favor. You should personalize each bottle with DTF transfer stickers (which are incredibly durable on bottles) featuring the guest’s name.
36. 50s Themed Temporary Tattoos
How about 50s-inspired tattoos? Think about iconic 50s designs like jukeboxes, cars, or rock ‘n’ roll symbols. These tattoos are a playful way to carry the 50s Theme Party fun beyond the event.
Last words
Incorporate these fun and creative ideas when throwing the event, your 50s Theme Party is sure to be a hit. From iconic decorations, stylish outfits, delicious food to exciting activities, our suggestions will help you recreate the spirit of the 1950s and make your party unforgettable.
One of the tips for your themed party is that you can add the perfect finishing touch with custom stickers from customany.com—ideal for labeling food, drinks, or party favors. Check out our product page to print stickers that fulfill your specific needs.
