Get ready to step into a time machine and travel to the grooviest decade of them all — the swinging ’60s. From psychedelic decorations to chic fashion to retro-inspired food and drinks, we’re here to help you throw a 60s party that’ll transport your guests to this revolutionary era. So dust off your go-go boots, fire up the lava lamp, and get ready to party like it’s 1969!
60s Party Themes
When it comes to throwing a 60s party, the options are as diverse and colorful as the decade itself. Whether you’re drawn to the youthful mod style, the free-spirited vibe of the hippie movement, or the sleek sophistication of Mad Men-era glamour, there’s a theme to suit every taste.
🥃 Mad Men Mixer: Channel the sleek sophistication of the 1960s advertising world with a Mad Men-inspired party featuring classic cocktails, elegant attire, and vintage charm.
☀️ Summer of Love Celebration: Transport guests to the iconic Summer of Love with a party that captures the spirit of peace, love, and communal harmony.
🎸 British Invasion Bash: Pay homage to the British bands that dominated the music scene in the 60s with a party inspired by the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, and other iconic acts.
😎 1960s Mod Party: Dive into the mod subculture with a party celebrating bold fashion statements, funky music, and avant-garde style.
☮️ 1969 Woodstock Festival: Take a trip to the iconic Woodstock Music Festival of 1969 with a peace and love-themed party celebrating the music with a stage and live bands.
60s Decor & Party Favors
The decorations and party favors should vary depending on your chosen theme, but you’ll likely want to fill your event space with hippy or mod styles to create the right atmosphere. Don’t forget to send your party guests home with some favors to remember the groovy time they had!
Embrace the flower power
Flower power decor captures the vibrant and free-spirited essence of the 1960s hippie movement. You can bring this movement to life with colorful palettes, tie-dye, peace symbols, and vintage decor.
Make it sleek and chic
The mod-style decor reflects the sleek, modern, and bold aesthetic of the 1960s mod movement. Its vibrant hues, graphic patterns, and futuristic accessories create a sophisticated and timeless look.
😎 Check this out: Groovy Ideas for a Far Out 70s Party
Send guests home with a goody bag
For your 1960s-themed party, consider party favors that capture the era’s essence. Provide stickers, a DIY lava lamp, and a customized goody bag.
60s Party Entertainment
Your party should include activities and unique entertainment along with some far-out music. From crafts to era-appropriate impersonators, dancers, and musical acts, there are many options to engage your guests in authentic amusements.
Plan a happening party
Organize a few fun activities for your party to make it exciting. Get creative and make colorful tie-dye shirts, test your knowledge with 60s party trivia, or take turns letting loose with karaoke.
Hire groovy bands
Some of the most influential and iconic music was introduced in the 1960s. Fill your space with live music that pays homage to the inspirational tunes from the era. From Motown groups to Beatles tributes to cover bands, you can find the right musical group to suit your party’s theme.
Elevate your entertainment
Many different types of entertainment are fitting for a 1960s theme party. From mod-style dancers to fire performers to Elvis impersonators, there is a performer who will help take your party to the next level.
60s Party Attire
Invite your guests to dress in fab threads from the 1960s to complete the party’s vibe. Dress in flower-power-inspired outfits, the classy mod style, or even costumes reflecting the era.
Feel the hippy vibes
If you want your 60s theme party to have hippy vibes, look to these flower-power outfits for inspiration. You can also check out your local thrift stores to find vintage pieces that are sure to impress.
Get your mod on
The mod style was all about embracing innovative and modern designs. Think bold patterns, graphic prints, and clean lines.
🎉Interested in more theme party ideas? Read this: 20 Perfect Party Themes for Any Celebration
Characterize your outfit
Have a little fun with your 1960s theme party with a costume! Dress like a Beatle, a debonair Mad Men, or a Go-Go Dancer.
60s Party Food and Drinks
Cocktail parties were all the rage in the 1950s and 1960s. Plan to make some classic drinks, and be sure to have some period-appropriate snacks to accompany the boozy beverages. Pick up a vintage copy of Betty Crocker Hostess Cookbook or check out the modern version of popular 1960s recipes to give them a new life.
Prepare some savory snacks
Try out a few retro recipes that are sure to please, like flavorful dips, deviled eggs, and a fun, Hedgehog cheeseball.
Craft your cocktails
Whip up some classic cocktails for your 60s party. To truly fit the vibe, remember to use some vintage glassware.
🍸 You may also like: Creative Cocktail Party Ideas That Will Make Everyone Cheers
Create some retro sweets
Balance out your snacks with fun desserts. Make some flower-power-themed cookies, the original rice crispies recipe, or a 1960s classic like ambrosia salad.
Whether you’re channeling the mod style, the free-spirited vibes of Woodstock, or the sleek sophistication of a 1960s cocktail party, there’s no limit to how you can bring the 1960s to life. Peace, love, and party on! ✌️
Ready to book some live entertainment for your 60s party? Find the best at GigSalad.
Matt Holland is a Customer Happiness Agent at GigSalad. With 10+ years of experience performing as a jazz drummer, he has gained insights into the life of a gigging musician as well as what makes an event go off without a hitch. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, hiking, reading, cooking, and watching the newest TV shows with his wife.
Looking for talent/tribute band for 60s party on 7/7 2017 in Marana AZ
Looks like you’ve got some great options in your area! This link shows your local performers for 60s era entertainment: https://www.gigsalad.com/Music-Groups/1960s-Era-Entertainment/AZ/Oro+Valley