Submitted by Steph

“So, going to college is all about getting an education, right?  WRONG.  If you go into your college years with that kind of mindset, you’ll come out on the other side wondering why everyone said it was the greatest time of their lives.  Now, I certainly encourage attending class and spending an adequate amount of time studying, or else Mom and Dad may be tempted to start making you buy your own pizza and beer.  But keep in mind that a degree is simply a nice side effect of attending college.  The PURPOSE of college is simple: to party.

There are many ways to “party” during college.  At a moment’s notice, you may be summoned out of your dorm room or apartment to accompany friends to a local bar or fraternity house.  While this kind of partying is fun and an important part of your college experience, it also has its disadvantages.  Loud (and usually bad) music stifles conversation, appointing a designated driver is a necessary annoyance, and sleazy guys with offensive pickup lines almost always find their way into your (or your girlfriend’s) night.

Luckily, there is an easy way to avoid these disadvantages while also having a great time partying.  All you need is an apartment or house with a brave owner, a very large cooler, and a little creativity.  House parties eliminate the need to use a designated driver (as long as there’s plenty of floor to crash on), and you have the distinct advantage of being able to control the guest list.  A great way to keep your house party from being labeled “lame” (an instant death blow) is to come up with a theme.

Ghetto Theme

80's Theme

Your theme should encompass as many aspects of your party as possible.  First and foremost, people should be encouraged/forced to dress according to the theme.  This creates a relaxed, whimsical atmosphere, since everyone looks equally ridiculous.  Second, go ahead, open up your iTunes, create that playlist.  Music sets the tone for a party, so it only makes sense that your music should relate to your theme.  Blast some 80s pop music at an 80s party, and you can practically feel your hair getting bigger and your clothes getting brighter.  Third, see if you can relate the food and drink to your theme.  For example, no respectable hipster party would be complete without a huge supply of PBR.  And finally, if you have a little room left in the budget, a few themed decorations never hurt anyone.  When planning a themed party, Google is your best friend.  A simple search usually returns more ideas than you can use.

So next time you want to party, instead of hitting up your college town’s local bar scene, put a little effort into a themed party.  You can be transported to another decade, step into the shoes of another group of people, or pay tribute to your favorite movie/TV show, all while spending time with the greatest friends you’ll ever make.  Then, when you’re at graduation looking back, ask yourself: was college really about education?”

80's Party, Remembering Michael & Farrah

What were some themed party ideas that worked for you? Share in the comments or write your own post!