The 1980s - a decade of big hair, bold fashion, and unforgettable music. As the clock strikes midnight and the New Year begins, why not celebrate in style with a totally tubular 80s-themed party? From radical decorations to righteous tunes, we've got eight ways to ring in the New Year like it's 1989.
Get Ready to Party Like It's 1989
The 1980s were all about excess and extravagance, so don't be afraid to go big or go home when it comes to planning your New Year's Eve bash. Whether you're a fan of neon-lit dance floors, big hair bands, or classic arcade games, there's no shortage of ways to create an unforgettable 80s-themed party.
- Create a Time-Capsule Playlist
No 80s-themed party would be complete without a playlist packed with the decade's biggest hits. From iconic synth-pop to fist-pumping rock anthems, create a playlist that'll transport your guests back to the neon-lit dance floors of the 1980s. Some must-includes? Duran Duran's "Hungry Like the Wolf," Prince's "When Doves Cry," and, of course, "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey.
Essential 80s Playlist Tracks
"Billie Jean" by Michael Jackson "Sweet Child O' Mine" by Guns N' Roses "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go" by Wham! "Like a Virgin" by Madonna "Take On Me" by A-ha
- Break Out the Big Hair
Big hair was a hallmark of 80s fashion, and your party guests will love the opportunity to get creative with their coiffure. Set up a DIY hair station with hairspray, gel, and plenty of teasing combs, and watch as your guests transform into 80s rockstars.
- Set Up a Totally Rad Photo Booth
A photo booth is a must-have for any party, and an 80s-themed bash is the perfect excuse to get creative with props and backdrops. Set up a neon-lit backdrop, and stock up on oversized sunglasses, big hair wigs, and plenty of neon-colored accessories.
Essential 80s Photo Booth Props
Oversized sunglasses Big hair wigs Neon-colored boas and leg warmers Cassette tapes and vinyl records Retro-themed posters and backdrops
- Get Your Game On with Classic Arcade Games
From Pac-Man to Donkey Kong, classic arcade games are a staple of 80s nostalgia. Set up a few consoles or computers with some of the decade's most iconic games, and watch as your guests get their game on.
- Create a Time-Traveling Timeline
Help your guests get into the 80s spirit with a timeline of some of the decade's most iconic events. From the Chernobyl disaster to the introduction of the first Apple Macintosh computer, a timeline is a fun and interactive way to get your guests thinking about the decade's biggest moments.
Essential 80s Timeline Events
The Chernobyl disaster (1986) The introduction of the first Apple Macintosh computer (1984) The first episode of "The Cosby Show" airs (1984) The release of "Top Gun" (1986) The first episode of "The Simpsons" airs (1989)
- Serve Up Some Totally Tubular Treats
No 80s-themed party would be complete without some totally tubular treats. From classic candy to iconic snacks, serve up some of the decade's most beloved treats to get your guests in the mood.
- Host a Most Excellent Costume Contest
An 80s-themed party is the perfect excuse to get creative with costumes. Host a costume contest with prizes for the most excellent outfits, and watch as your guests show off their 80s style.
Essential 80s Costume Ideas
A big-haired rockstar A neon-colored aerobics instructor A Miami Vice-inspired pastel-colored suit A Top Gun-inspired pilot's uniform A punk rock-inspired ripped fishnet top
- Ring in the New Year with a Totally Rad Countdown
Finally, no 80s-themed party would be complete without a totally rad countdown to midnight. Set up a screen or projector to display the countdown, and get your guests dancing to some of the decade's biggest hits.
Final Thoughts
With these eight ways to ring in the New Year 80s style, you'll be well on your way to creating an unforgettable party that'll leave your guests talking for years to come. So don't be afraid to get creative, get radical, and get ready to party like it's 1989!
What's your favorite way to ring in the New Year? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
What are some essential 80s playlist tracks?
+Some essential 80s playlist tracks include "Billie Jean" by Michael Jackson, "Sweet Child O' Mine" by Guns N' Roses, "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go" by Wham!, and "Like a Virgin" by Madonna.
What are some totally tubular 80s treats?
+Some totally tubular 80s treats include classic candy like Pop Rocks and Pixy Stix, as well as iconic snacks like Doritos and Cheetos.
What are some essential 80s costume ideas?
+Some essential 80s costume ideas include a big-haired rockstar, a neon-colored aerobics instructor, a Miami Vice-inspired pastel-colored suit, and a Top Gun-inspired pilot's uniform.
Gallery of 8 Ways To Ring In The New Year 80s Style
