We’ve talked about tips for an 80’s-themed party here on the blog — even a 60’s-themed party — but never a 50’s-themed party!

You see, I was inspired by John Travolta. Today is his birthday which got me thinking about Grease — one of the best movies ever made in my opinion. Ok, so I may have inserted my personal opinion into this post just a tad…but a 1950’s-themed party is a great way to celebrate with the kids!

Here are some tips I got from www.kids-birthday-party-guide.com to help you pull off a great 1950‘s birthday party!

Invitations

Lets get creative with your fifties party invitations. I have included a couple of suggestions here to help you create excitement for your 50s party guests.

First, you can cut out a circle (that looks like an album record) from black construction paper. If you want your 50s party invitation to open like a regular card, then you have to fold the paper over and cut the circle leaving an inch or two on the folded side uncut.
Next, you can use gel pens to write your party details. (Gel pens work great on black paper). You invitation wording can say “It’s a Rockin’ Sock Hop! Put on those poodle skirts and leather jackets and come join the fun! Do the “Locomotion” and head on over to (your child’s name) house for some Rockin’ Sock Hop birthday party fun!”

For a second fifties party invitation idea, put a picture of a 50′s style car on the front of the card. On the inside of the card, you can write “Cruise on over to Big Al’s (or use your child’s/husband’s name) Diner for a Hot Roddin’ good time.” Next, add all your party details like date, time, location, and RSVP.

Here is another idea for your wording: “Hey, all you T-Birds and Pink Ladies! (Your child’s name) is turning (age) and she (or he) is hopelessly devoted to you being there. So grease back your hair, guys! And grab your saddle shoes, girls! Because it’s time to Rock ‘n’ Roll!

Make sure to ask all your guests to wear 50′s party attire.

Decorations

The best color combination for your fifties party decorations would be teal, pink and black.

Decorate your front yard with balloons and streamers in before-mentioned colors. Decorate you front door with a banner “Welcome to Big Al’s (or name of your choice) Diner!” Draw any 50s theme items (e.g. cars, jukebox, album records, etc) on the banner to make it look more authentic!

Hang old album records from the ceiling. Place old pictures around your fifties party area. You can also use musical instruments or music note decorations to go on the walls. Cover the floor with balloons in coordinating colors. Also, if you have any old memorabilia – spread it around your room.

Have some fun with your party table area. Hang 50s theme posters on the walls (e.g. soda drinks, hamburgers, hot rod cars, etc.) Cover the table with checkered tablecloth. Put catsup, mustard, and relish bottles on the table. Have classic soda glasses for everyone.

Hang Saxophone Mylar balloon as a centerpiece in the middle. Cut out Coke signs from the Coca-Cola box and spread the signs around the table. You can create price tags for all your food items. For example, root beer floats can be 10 cents, burgers – 15 cents, etc.

Play music of Elvis, Buddy Holly, or Grease Soundtrack in the background.

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