Throwing a 70s Party

A 1970s theme party is a chance to celebrate one of the most colorful decades in pop culture—from disco floors and Motown classics to lava lamps and leisure suits. This guide covers décor, music, favors, costumes, and games to help your guests feel like they have stepped back in time.

Decorating for a 1970s Party

Setting the scene is half the fun. The seventies were defined by bold color, psychedelic pattern, and a little disco sparkle. A few well-chosen props go a long way toward creating an authentic atmosphere:

• Embrace bold colors. Oranges, yellows, and avocado greens were everywhere in seventies décor.
• Hang a disco ball. No decade party is complete without that signature shimmer from the ceiling.
• Work in psychedelic patterns. Tie-dye, paisley, and floral prints on tablecloths, curtains, or a photo backdrop set the tone instantly.
• Layer the lighting. Colored bulbs, string lights, and black lights add instant groove.
• Add retro props. Lava lamps, bean bag chairs, and vintage posters complete the look.

Above all, have fun with it—the spirit of the seventies is as much about attitude as it is about accessories.

Finishing Touches

Small details make a big impression. These vinyl record bowls are ideal for serving snacks and nod to the era’s love of LP culture. Pair them with vintage vinyl LP coasters for drinks, or try light-up pint glasses for party beverages.

Photo Booth Props

A photo booth with themed props gives guests something to take home besides memories. Stock up on a few kits and let people strike their best disco poses. Life-size character cutouts are another great option—they make fun backdrops for group photos and give shy guests something to hide behind. Check out the Scooby-Doo cutouts below for a playful seventies Saturday-morning vibe.

Scooby-Doo Cutouts

Wall Posters

Line the walls with posters that spark conversation. The “70s Slang” poster shown below is a crowd favorite. You can also browse 70s movie posters and more at Amazon.

Music & Entertainment

Building the Playlist

Keep the soundtrack going all night. The seventies were far more than disco—Motown, rock, funk, and soul all belong on the playlist. Our 70s Music Video Channels are a free option for ambient viewing, or pick up a compilation album for a ready-made mix.

For an interactive twist, tune in to our Shag Carpet Radio music video station and let guests vote for the next song from their phones.

TV & Movies in the Background

Classic television and film playing in the background adds atmosphere between dance sets. TV Guide’s ’70s Cop Shows Collection covers favorites from the small screen. On the big screen, comedies like Animal House and musicals like Saturday Night Fever (with John Travolta and an unforgettable disco soundtrack) are reliable crowd-pleasers.

Party Favors & Gifts

Mood rings and pet rocks (easy to make yourself) are nostalgic take-home gifts. Retro candy from the seventies—Bottle Caps, Blow Pops, Ring Pops, and more—is available through the Old Time Candy Company.

Costumes

Encourage guests to arrive in seventies attire—a note on the invitation helps people who may not know where to start. For men, think wide collars, white disco pants, corduroy, extra-wide ties, or a full leisure suit. For women, go-go outfits, flower-power hippie looks, and earth-toned oranges and browns all fit the bill. Tie-dye shirts and peace-sign jewelry work for anyone. See our 70s Fashion section for more inspiration.

Browse more options at 70s costumes on Amazon.

Amazon

Amazon

Amazon

HalloweenCostumes.com

Games & Activities

Themed games are a great way to relive the fun of the seventies. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Disco dance-off. Clear a dance floor, play popular seventies disco tracks, and award prizes for the best moves.
• 70s trivia. Test guests on music, fashion, movies, and television from the decade.
• Name that tune. Play short clips of hit songs and have guests guess the title and artist.
• Costume contest. Recognize the best-dressed guests in seventies attire.
• Limbo. Set up a limbo bar and see who can go lowest to the beat.
• Twister. This classic party game was a seventies staple and still holds up today.

With a little creativity, you can add even more activities that transport your guests back to the 1970s.