Party Themes for Adults: 35 Wacky Fun & Spunky Ideas to Get the Party Going!

Theme parties aren’t just for kids! Have an unforgettable night with our crazy and creative party themes for adults.

Becoming an adult doesn’t mean you have to put a stop to all the fun in your life. Although you may have work, kids, and home responsibilities, you should always make time to squeeze in a little fun every now and then. And what better way to have fun than with some crazy party themes for adults?

What adult isn’t overjoyed by the idea of leaving the kids for a night and heading off to enjoy time together? Not only should you get out and go to parties—you should also host them.

So, let’s bust out our most creative party ideas for a themed night you’ll never forget.

[Read: 22 super fun drinking card games to get the party and the fun times going!]

How to choose a party theme

Adult parties don’t have to be centered on conversation, sophisticated drinks, and dressy attire. How about throwing a theme party for all of your friends?

While themed parties may seem a little too “immature”, they aren’t. They’re not just for kids and drunk college students!

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If you really want to throw an adult theme party, there are a couple of things you need to consider. Maybe you aren’t sure which themes would be mature enough for your friends but still want them to be fun enough to let loose and get a little goofy.

Or maybe you’re trying to work around a budget and a limited amount of space. Whatever you need to keep in mind, here’s our simple checklist of things to consider when choosing a theme for your party:

1. Consider your budget

Before you start, you need to talk about money. Some themes are more expensive than others, and you don’t want to pick one that leaves you with a financial headache.

For example, a historical theme is much more expensive, while an ugly sweater party won’t break the bank.

If you’re on a tight budget, don’t forget that you can also cut costs with a little creativity. You can get creative with your decorations, food, and activities to bring in the theme. You can also ask your guests to bring a dish potluck-style or to help you with the preparations so the fun starts early.

[Read: The lazy twentysomething’s guide to saving money]

2. Think about your space

Another important factor to consider when choosing a party theme is your space. You can’t have a casino party if you’re living in your parents’ back room!

If you’re limited on space, then you may want to choose a theme that doesn’t require a lot of room to move around. There are plenty of themes that can be adapted to smaller spaces, too.

3. Consider your guests

Not all themes are appropriate for all groups of people. When choosing party themes for adults, it’s important to consider the age, interests, and values of your guests.

You want to choose a theme that everyone will enjoy, so don’t pick a pimps and hoes theme if you know your Mom’s coming along!

And remember, it’s not just you that’s spending money. Think about if your guests will need to hire out pricey costumes, too. [Read: The most insanely easy costume ideas for couples]

4. Be flexible

Sometimes, things don’t go according to plan. So if your original choice of theme doesn’t work out, be prepared to change it. Things like bad weather or last-minute cancellations can easily throw a wrench in your carefully-laid schemes.

But if something unexpected happens, don’t stress out. After all, a few unexpected guests or stray raindrops shouldn’t get in the way of an awesome party! There are still plenty of alternative party themes for adults you can pick from.

5. Pick a party theme early

The sooner you decide on a party theme, the more time you will have to plan and prepare. You will need plenty of time to find decorations, food, and activities that fit your theme.

This is especially important with theme parties, which usually take a little more time and effort to put together.

If you decide early, it will also give you time to send out invitations and get everyone excited about the party. And don’t forget to feel the hype yourself! If you’re not excited about your bash, then it will be difficult to get your guests going too.

[Read: How to throw the perfect surprise party for a friend]

The ultimate party themes for adults

There are endless possibilities when it comes to party themes. And with so many choices, it can feel pretty impossible to choose. That’s why we’re here with our list of ultimate party themes for adults!

Check out our suggestions and bear in mind the criteria we talked about above. When you think you’ve chosen your theme, you’ll be well on your way to planning the most perfect party ever!

1. Alphabet-themed

For this one, all you have to do is pick a letter and have that as the party’s theme. For example, you can have a “B” themed party, where everyone brings something that starts with the letter “B”. They can only wear clothes that are a color that starts with “B,” or from a store with a name that starts with “B”!

It’s a very simple theme with minimal work and decorations, but it’s still a ton of fun for you and all your friends. Beer, bananas, bacon, bean dip, brats, and the works! You’ll eat well and have your friends talking about your party for a long time to come. [Read: How to be funny – 28 must-know tips to make people love your humor]

2. Clue

Who doesn’t love a good murder mystery party? We know we do—especially when it’s a game we all used to play as kids. This brings back all the excitement of the game, but elevates it to an adult level, instead of just a board game you play at Christmas.

For this one to work, you’ll need people, envelopes, murder “weapons,” and labeled rooms in your house. When the guests arrive, they will each pick up an envelope that has sealed their fate for the night!

3. Color-themed

Honestly, color-themed parties are some of the easiest to execute and the most fun. Who doesn’t love dressing up in bright colors, and seeing how far you can go with your crazy outfits?

Another great idea for a color-themed party is to have each guest bring a dish… in that color. You could even make numerous batches of different-colored cupcakes for parties like these, or get really inventive with dishes and food dye that don’t usually go hand-in-hand.

4. Decade party

Decade parties are always fun because people get to dress up no matter what year you decide. It’s always the most fun when people choose a year when the fashion was especially outrageous, like the 70s.

But you could also ask people to dress for the decade they were born if you don’t want to have to theme the whole space with a set decade.

You can even have different “prizes” for the person who is the best-dressed for that decade or the person who has the craziest outfit.

5. Tiki theme

If the weather’s right and you want to take things outdoors, what better party than a tiki party? If you get the right props and venue, you can have a Hawaiian-themed get-together, where everyone has to dress up in tiki attire. Pina coladas, coconut bras, grass skirts—what’s not to love?

6. Casino night

Get out those cards, throw down some chips, and let the money fly. A casino-themed night is a really fun idea for adults of any age—as long as they’re old enough to be responsible!

You can play for real money, or just use fake cash and trade your “earnings” in for some cool prizes from the host.

7. Fondue party

Fondue parties have become very popular as of late. More and more people are throwing parties just to celebrate the molten deliciousness that comes in the form of fondue.

Whether you choose chocolate, cheese, or both, it’s never a bad idea to have a huge spread and have people over for the sole purpose of eating.

8. Black tie

The truth is that not a lot of adults get to dress up in fancy clothes and enjoy a sophisticated night out with friends—but they’re dying to.

So set a dress code, gather some fancy hors d’oeuvres, invite some friends, and pretend to live the high life for a little while.

9. Cartoon costume party

Cartoons nowadays aren’t nearly as awesome as they used to be. Throwing a cartoon costume party is an awesome way to not only let the kid in you out a little but also bring you back to a time that was carefree and fun.

Who wouldn’t love to ditch their adult responsibilities for a night and pretend they’re one of their favorite cartoon characters?

10. Literature costume party

Take a cartoon character party a little bit further—instead of cartoons, dress up as your favorite character from a book. Then see how many people can guess who you are. You can have prizes for the person who can guess the most characters!

If you want, you can ask that everybody brings a classic quote to make the guessing a little easier. [Read: 30 most romantic love quotes from books and literature]

11. High school

Take out that old yearbook and do some studying, because, with this out-of-the-box theme, you’re going to be throwing a party where everyone has to dress up as they would have in high school *minus the braces*.

So, do your hair big, get out those old jeans, and get to know your friends as they were back in high school.

12. Pun party

If you really want to be remembered for hosting the most bizarre yet hilarious themed party, then have everyone dress up as the best pun or cliche phrase they can think of. Chain-smoker, one-night stand, wallflower, elephant in the room… you name it.

Whoever comes up with the best pun of the night gets a prize. This theme is always fun and allows you to get creative and silly.

13. Ugly sweater party

Who doesn’t love a good ugly sweater party? Well, guess what—they’re not just for Christmas! Head on out to your nearest thrift store and pick up the ugliest sweater you can find.

A fun thing to do with this theme is to have everyone vote on whose sweater is ugliest, then award the winner with a prize.

14. Rockstar

Do you love rock and roll? A rockstar party is a great way to share your love for rock with your friends. Invite your friends to dress up as their favorite rockstars, and then dance the night away to your favorite tunes. You can even set up a karaoke machine so your guests can release their inner Axl Rose.

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15. Punk

Like a rockstar party, but a little more rebellious! You don’t have to like hardcore punk music to enjoy getting dressed up in some safety pins and tartan.

However, if you are partial to a little punk rock, get stuck in and set up a mosh pit so that everyone can let off some steam.

16. Goth

A goth party is an opportunity to embrace your dark side. To make the party even more atmospheric, you can decorate with black lights and play some goth rock music.

This is an especially fun idea if you’re known for having a happy, sunny personality. Why not surprise everybody by spending a night as the Prince/Princess of Darkness?

17. Neon rave

It’s rave time! Break out the Day-Glo and pump up the jams for a night of bright retro fun. It’s a unique spin on a typical dance party that makes things just a little more exciting.

Just make sure that you don’t wake the neighbors with your classic acid house beats! [Read: 50 crazy and impulsive things to do with friends that you’ll never forget]

18. Pimps and hoes

This one might be a little more controversial. But if you and your friend group have an edgy sense of humor, a pimps-and-hoes-themed party could be hilarious.

Play some loud music, set up a couple of casino games, and dress up in some serious bling. And remember, boys can be hoes too!

19. Mexican fiesta

A Mexican fiesta is a great way to celebrate your heritage or love of Mexican culture. Dress your guests in sombreros and Mexican attire, and make your own tacos to mariachi music. You can also set up a piñata or two so that everyone can try their luck at breaking them open.

20. Onesie party

With a onesie party, you can be cozy and have fun at the same time. There’s something special about a onesie that makes it much more comfortable than regular PJs.

Once you’re all cuddled up in your onesies, you can play games and watch movies all night long.

[Read: 27 best sleepover ideas and fun things to do while staying up with friends]

21. Celebrity lookalikes

Is there a certain celebrity that people always say you look like? Then why not try and become them for a night?

Get your friends to dress as their celebrity lookalikes, and try to guess who everybody’s supposed to be. You might find some resemblances you didn’t notice before.

[Read: Conversation games – 15 best talking games for fun and lots of laughs]

22. Beach party

Celebrate the summer weather with a beach party! Even if you don’t have a local beach, you can invite your friends over for some fun in the sun at your local park or your backyard.

You can provide some beach chairs, towels, and sunscreen. Then, play some classic beach games like volleyball, or have a sandcastle competition.

23. Pool party

Of course, this one assumes you have access to a pool. However, if it’s a hot day and you know a great place you can swim, then a pool party is an ideal party theme for adults.

Cool off on a hot day by just hanging out, or even introduce a little friendly competition with a swimming race.

24. Red carpet

Feel like a celebrity for the night by rolling out the red carpet. Don your most glamorous attire, and have your friends parade down a real-life red carpet to your door. You could even hire a photographer to act as the “paparazzi” and snap some special pics!

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25. Las Vegas

Viva Las Vegas! This is a perfect blend between a casino and red carpet theme, with a little hint of sparkle that makes it truly unique. Set up some casino tables, such as blackjack, roulette, and craps. Plus, to make the party even more exciting, you can hire a showgirl or two to perform.

26. White party

A classy and classic way to enjoy the summer weather, and you only have to do one thing: wear white! Even the decorations are easy, as all you need is white ribbons, flowers, and balloons.

Just make sure you don’t try and do this one after Labor Day—it’s just bad etiquette!

[Read: Super fun bachelor party ideas that don’t involve strippers]

27. James Bond

The name’s Bond, James Bond. You can’t get a more classy and cool theme than 007. Gather your secret agents, villains, and Bond girls for a night of tuxedo-clad fun. It’s also a perfect opportunity to show off your cocktail-making skills.

Remember—shaken, not stirred!

28. Mardi Gras

Channel the spirit of Mardi Gras on Bourbon Street with a themed party. You don’t need to go to New Orleans to create the party vibe of a masked ball.

Make sure you provide some beads, king cake, and other Mardi Gras-themed snacks. And plenty of whiskey…

[Read: The morning after – how to avoid a hangover]

29. Drag party

A drag party is one of the most fun and flamboyant theme party ideas for adults. Everybody can dress up in drag, and then lip-sync to their favorite tunes in a mini RuPaul’s Drag Race!

Also, you could organize a photo shoot to capture all your glamorous looks. As for decorations, just bust out the sequins and glitter!

30. Death to My Youth party

This one’s a little more high-concept but has a great dark sense of humor. A ‘death to my youth’ party is a funeral-style party celebrating the end of your younger days, with DIY tombstones, a RIP cake, and other novelty decorations to poke fun at your milestone age. It’s lots of fun for big birthdays like 30, 40, or even 50 if you’re young at heart.

31. Masquerade ball

Spend the night as Marie Antoinette with a glamorous masquerade ball. This might be one of the more costly and extravagant party themes for adults on our list, but it’s always going to be memorable. Make sure you make your venue look lush and decadent to match your gorgeous guests.

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32. Toga party

Sure, this party theme might have a little of a college-kid vibe. But that could be super nostalgic if you play it right! Plus, it’s super easy for your friends to get hold of a costume—all they need is a bedsheet and some safety pins!

If you want party themes for adults you can throw in last minute or on a budget, this is the one for you.

33. Gatsby party

A roaring 20s party is a great way to celebrate the decade of decadence. Invite your friends to dress up in their favorite flapper attire, and then dance the night away to some of the best jazz music of the era. You can also set up a speakeasy so that your guests can enjoy some “illegal” cocktails.

[Read: How to be witty – 25 ways to win everyone over with your charm]

34. Zombie apocalypse

This party theme isn’t just about getting the chance to dress up in your best, gnarliest zombie costumes. You can also add an element of an escape room, with different tasks to complete, and items to collect in order to “survive.”

If you have a little extra money, then you could even hire some professional zombies for an added scare.

35. Wild West

Time travel back to the Wild West with an old-time cowboy theme. Get your friends to dress up as their favorite cowboys and cowgirls, and then have them participate in a square-dancing western hoedown. Serve themed snacks like chili, Tex-Mex tacos, and fried chicken for extra authenticity.

[Read: How not to be boring and get people excited to talk and be around you]

No matter which of these spunky party themes for adults you decide to go with, just remember to let loose and have some fun! Everybody needs a good excuse to have an amazing party—and these themes are just the excuse you need.

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