Break out the old, clunky cell phone from the 1980s and let your kid bring it to the party.
While your child might not have lived through the '80s, a themed party can give the kids a chance to experience some of the decade that gave us Michael Jackson's glove, "Revenge of the Nerds," Reaganomics and MTV. You can find plenty of ideas from movies, TV, music and fashion to decorate and inspire an '80s-themed kids party. Does this Spark an idea?
Iconic Figures Costume Party
Have the kids pick their favorite characters and historical figures from the '80s. Choose from sports legends, like Larry Bird, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Magic Johnson, George Brett, Hulk Hogan or Chris Everett. Or select from musicians, like Cyndi Lauper, Boy George or Michael Jackson. Politicians such as Ronald Reagan, George Bush or Margaret Thatcher, can make cute costumes for little kids. Or choose characters from famous movies, like E.T., Marty McFly, Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia or Indiana Jones. Kids can vote for their favorite costume and pose for pictures.
Wall Street Party
The 1980s provided an unprecedented streak of big deals on Wall Street. Let the kids recreate one of the heydays of the stock market. Slick back the boys' hair, put them in their best suits, replete with ties, dress shoes and even suspenders. Girls can wear pantsuits, put their hair into buns and don a pair of glasses. Purchase little plastic briefcases or cheap faux-leather cases. Stock them up with candy, notepads and calculators. Give out fake money and have the kids bid on desserts.
Miami Vice
Sure Michael Mann brought the iconic concept to the big screen in 2006, but many still remember "Miami Vice" as the trend-setting TV show. Break out the pastel T-shirts and white suits for the boys. Girls can feather their hair. Some kids can dress as the bad guys. If possible, bring the party to the beach, whether at the ocean or a nearby lake. Take the kids on a boat ride. Or throw a pool party. Have remote controlled boats for the kids to race. Have everyone bring swimsuits. Serve non-alcoholic fruity cocktails.
80's Dance Party
Crank up the top hits from the '80s. Play Madonna, George Michael, Stevie Wonder, Bruce Springsteen, Prince, Hall and Oates, Duran Duran and Bon Jovi. Give out sunglasses as a party gift. Either rent a space to throw the dance, like a hall, or simply clear out some space in the basement or living room. Put up colored lights and set a playlist on your computer. Give out popular candy from the '80s, like Nerds.
Tags: bring party, George Michael, Miami Vice, Michael Jackson, their favorite, their hair, Wall Street
