The '50s gave rise to poodle skirts, Marilyn Monroe and James Dean. The decade seemed to be a golden time after the darker times of war. As such the decade is remembered fondly and is a popular theme for parties--maybe especially for those who are either too young to remember the '50s or weren't even born yet. For them, a '50s party is a chance to live it, at least for a night.
Food & Music
Simple is best. Serve hamburgers and hot dogs, ice cream floats, french fries and onion rings, the staples of some of the first fast-food chains. If the party is outdoors and in the daytime, consider a picnic theme. You might have a cake made to look like a jukebox or a classic car from the '50s. For something easier, make the cake look like a vinyl record. Or go to a bakery or ice cream store and have a cake made with picture on it--such as your favorite '50s movie poster. For music, consider renting an actual jukebox loaded with the appropriate music from the '50s. Or perhaps get a karaoke machine and let the guests sing old rock 'n' roll songs from the period. If your budget permits, you could even hire an Elvis impersonator.
Decorations
Perhaps you know someone with a '50s classic car to park in the front yard, or rent one if your budget permits. It would make a great backdrop for picture-taking. Inside, decorate the walls with '50s movie posters. Smaller scattered decorations could include hula-girl lamps or Howdy Doody dolls.
Games & Fun
Have a dance contest, a la American Bandstand, or a hula hoop contest. See who can do the best impersonation of Lucille Ball or Ricky Ricardo or any other favorite '50s star. See who can do the best Elvis impersonation. Play the '50s version of Trivial Pursuit. Consider '50s film charades. Award a prize for the best male and best female costume. Be sure to request appropriate '50s attire on the invitation so the guests themselves will add to the party's ambiance.
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