Step back in time to the fabulous 50s with a nostalgic sock hop dance! Celebrate the era of rock ‘n’ roll, poodle skirts, and soda shops with these tips for throwing a memorable 50s theme party that will have everyone twisting and shouting.
A sock hop is a popular theme option for all types of school dances, from elementary daddy-daughter dances to high school homecomings. But you can also have a sock hop party to celebrate with your friends and loved ones for birthdays, Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, and more.
Sock Hop Decorations
Transform your venue into a 1950s party hot spot to create the perfect setting for your epic sock hop dance.
Set up your venue
Whether you’re hosting your 50s sock hop in a gymnasium, a cafeteria, or at home, get creative with your decor to transport guests back in time. Use pink and blue or teal streamers or paper coverings on your walls with checkered prints for a classic 50s feel.
Add a retro vibe
Carry those checkerboard prints over to your tablecloths and other accents. Since this is a 50s sock hop dance, use music note cut-outs and vinyl records to set a music-inspired scene. Consider adding a vintage jukebox (or jukebox prop) and 50s-style centerpieces for tables.
Get photo ready
Create great photo opportunities for guests to show off their poodle skirts and leather jackets. Set up themed backdrops and picture areas for guests to hop in for selfies and silly group shots. Don’t forget the fun props for a true photo booth experience!
🎉 You might also like: Rockin’ 50s Party Ideas to Make Your Socks Hop
Sock Hop Entertainment
Keep the good times rolling with some good old rock and roll music. Whether you’re hiring a performer or firing up the ginchiest playlist, a cool soundtrack is a must for your sock hop dance.
Host your own American Bandstand
Make it an authentic sock hop dance with live 50s entertainment! Hire a tribute band or impersonator who specializes in oldies music. They can perform all of your favorite songs from the 1950s era and keep your guests doing the jitterbug out on the dance floor.
Hang with the King
Add some star power to your sock hop with a visit from the King of Rock and Roll himself! Book an Elvis impersonator to perform his greatest hits from the 50s, such as Jailhouse Rock and Blue Suede Shoes. He could even host a costume contest or dance-off!
Rock around the jukebox
While finding an actual jukebox might be challenging, you can simulate the experience. Hire a professional DJ to spin tracks and take song requests. Or, simply create a playlist on Spotify and let guests come up and choose from a list of pre-selected songs.
Sock Hop Snacks
No sock hop dance would be complete without a refreshments table. Keep your guests energized with retro-inspired snacks.
Munch on small diner bites
A diner-inspired menu is perfect for any 50s theme party. Keep your options simple with snacks that are easy to eat between dance numbers. Think bite-size burgers and mini hot dogs, with a side of fries, of course.
Delight in nifty sweets
No sock hop snack bar would be complete without some tasty treats. Offer 50s-themed party desserts like cookies shaped and decorated like leather jackets, saddle shoes, records, and jukeboxes. You can also get creative with cupcakes arranged and frosted to look like a 50s outfit with a poodle skirt.
Go down to the soda shop
Set up your own version of a soda fountain or malt shop to give guests a true 1950s experience. Serve various soda options in glass bottles and add an ice cream bar to make floats and milkshakes. Provide different flavors and toppings, like whipped cream and cherries!
🍸Pro tip: For adult guests, hire a bartender to create custom cocktails inspired by 50s favorites like the classic martini or a whiskey sour.
A sock hop dance is a fantastic way to celebrate the iconic era of the 1950s. With the right decorations, entertainment, and snacks, you can create a memorable event that will have everyone twisting the night away. So put on your dancing shoes, slick back your hair, and get ready to rock around the clock at your very own 50s sock hop! 🕺
Ready to book some entertainment for your sock hop? Find the best on GigSalad.
Heather is the Content Manager and a GigSalad veteran of 15+ years. She loves helping event planners create unforgettable celebrations and talent make a living doing what they love. When not at work, she enjoys reading romance and fantasy books, bingeing TV shows, playing board games, and spending time with friends.