25 Ultimate 80s Party Decoration Ideas

If you’re planning to throw an unforgettable 80s-themed party, you’re in the right place! The 1980s were a time of neon colors, big hair, and outrageous fashion, and a party inspired by this colorful era will surely take your guests on a nostalgic trip. From neon signs to funky photo booths, we’ve got all the decoration ideas you need to capture the spirit of the 80s.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the most creative and fun 80s party decoration ideas, helping you bring the magic of the 80s to life. So, let’s rewind and get ready to transform your party space into an 80s haven!

1. Themed Photo Booth

A photo booth is a must-have for any 80s-themed party! It gives your guests a chance to capture their groovy looks, and it’s a great way to share memories long after the party ends.

Photo Booth Essentials:

Backdrop: Choose a bright, neon-colored backdrop or a custom-made 80s design (think cassette tapes or boomboxes).
Props: Stock up on classic 80s accessories such as neon sunglasses, mullet wigs, feather boas, and cassette tapes.
Camera Setup: Use an instant print camera or a digital camera on a tripod for quick snaps. Make sure the lighting is perfect for those throwback photos.

Fun Themed Backdrops:

Rock Star Theme: Think bold, electrifying patterns with a touch of glam. A neon grid background with bold music icons will do the trick.
Hip-Hop Graffiti Wall: Create an urban vibe with a graffiti-inspired backdrop. Look for 80s-style street art or use posters to create a makeshift mural.
Glamour Shots: Opt for a minimalist, marble-textured backdrop with pastel pink and purple hues. This will transport guests back to the 80s glam scene.

Photo Booth Props Ideas:

Wigs: Go for bold mullet styles, mohawks, or glamorous 80s curls.
Clothing Items: Scour thrift stores for iconic 80s jackets, sequined attire, windbreakers, and leopard print.
Retro Accessories: Think oversized sunglasses, neon hats, and funky belts.

2. Neon Light Decorations

The 80s were defined by their bold neon hues, so infuse your party with vibrant neon lights that illuminate the entire venue.

Essential Neon Light Pieces:

Neon Signs: Install iconic neon signs, such as “Eat” or “Drink,” in neon pink, green, or blue. These signs are perfect for setting the tone and drawing attention to key areas of your party.
Glow in the Dark Decorations: Use glow sticks, neon balloons, or blacklight-responsive paint for an electrifying atmosphere.

Suggested Neon Décor Items:

LED Neon Party Lights: Bright, glowing strips that add color and excitement to any surface.
Neon Balloons: Make your party feel like a rave with glow-in-the-dark balloons or balloons in neon colors like lime green and bright orange.
Neon Tableware: Incorporate neon plates, cups, and cutlery for an added pop of color.

3. Boombox Centerpieces

There’s no better way to capture the essence of the 80s than with boomboxes. They were the soundtrack of the era, and they can make awesome party centerpieces too.

Creating a Boombox Centerpiece:

DIY Boombox: Get creative by building your own boombox using cardboard and spray paint. Use neon colors for the classic 80s touch.
Real Vintage Boomboxes: If you have access to a vintage boombox, use it as a centerpiece. You can even add speakers and play some classic 80s jams throughout the night.

Where to Find Boomboxes:

Thrift Stores: Hunt for old-school boomboxes or vintage radios that can add that authentic 80s flair.
Party Shops: Many party suppliers carry inflatable boomboxes that are perfect for decoration.

4. 80s-Inspired Furniture and Party Seating

Turn your party into a fully immersive 80s experience by including era-inspired furniture and seating arrangements.

Key Furniture Items:

Bean Bags: Opt for oversized, colorful bean bags in vibrant neon shades. They were a staple of 80s decor and will provide casual seating for your guests.
Funky Lounge Chairs: Think of pastel-colored lounge chairs or retro plastic seating. For an authentic touch, you can add inflatable furniture pieces.

Retro Bar Setup:

80s Themed Bar Cart: Create a fun bar area using a retro bar cart with metallic finishes. Add neon drink stirrers and colorful glasses for an authentic touch.

Decorative Touches:

Retro Throw Pillows: Scatter bold, geometric throw pillows in neon colors across couches or chairs.
Plastic Tableware: Bright, neon-colored plastic plates, cups, and cutlery will tie in with the bold look.

5. Retro Arcade Game Zone

No 80s party is complete without an arcade game zone! Take your guests back to the good old days with classic arcade machines.

Arcade Game Setup:

Rent Arcade Machines: Companies offer vintage arcade game rentals like Pac-Man, Space Invaders, or Donkey Kong. These games will be a hit with guests of all ages.
DIY Arcade Corner: If renting arcade machines isn’t in your budget, set up a corner with retro board games like Scrabble, Monopoly, and Battleship. Add a few classic handheld electronic games as well.

DIY Arcade Décor:

Arcade Cutouts: Use cardboard cutouts shaped like arcade joysticks or buttons and place them around the space.
LED Rope Lights: Line the walkway with LED lights that replicate the feel of an arcade. You can also place these lights around game stations for extra atmosphere.

6. Retro Vinyl Record Decorations

Vinyl records were iconic in the 80s, not only as music devices but also as stylish decor items. Bring them back by incorporating them into your party decorations.

Vinyl Record Ideas:

Wall Art: Hang vinyl records on the walls, either in a scattered fashion or arranged in creative patterns. You can use records of famous 80s bands like Madonna, Michael Jackson, and Queen.
Table Centerpieces: Place vinyl records as the base for centerpieces or use them as a base for other 80s-inspired items like cassette tapes or neon candles.

DIY Vinyl Record Crafts:

Vinyl Record Bowls: Heat vinyl records in the oven, and mold them into bowl shapes for unique and retro tableware.
Record Wreaths: Use cut-up pieces of vinyl records to form a wreath for the door or to decorate your party’s entryway.

7. 80s Neon Balloons & Balloon Arches

Neon-colored balloons will instantly inject energy into your 80s-themed party space. These can be used in various ways to enhance the vibe.

Balloon Decorating Ideas:

Neon Balloon Arch: Create a stunning arch at the entrance or over the dance floor using neon-colored balloons. Add metallic or chrome-colored balloons for extra flair.
Balloons with LED Lights: Insert small LED lights inside transparent balloons for a glowing effect that will keep the party alive throughout the evening.

Balloon Props:

Boombox Balloons: Use helium balloons shaped like boomboxes or cassette tapes for a fun twist on traditional party decor.
Inflatable Balloons: Incorporate giant inflatable balloons in bold shapes like records or game controllers.

8. 80s-Themed Candy Table

Candy was a significant part of 80s childhood memories. Why not create a candy bar with retro sweets to keep your guests reminiscing about their favorite treats?

Classic 80s Candy:

Pop Rocks: The fun, fizzy candy will be a hit among guests, evoking that nostalgic 80s candy experience.
Candy Necklaces: Classic, wearable candy necklaces are perfect for adding a fun, hands-on treat for guests.
Jelly Bracelets: These were not only popular accessories but can now be used to add a pop of color to your candy bar.

Candy Table Setup:

Candy Jars: Display various candy options in clear jars, adding a touch of class to your retro-inspired party.
Themed Labels: Create fun labels like “Totally Tubular Treats” and “Radical Sweets” to tie the candy back to the 80s theme.

9. 80s-Inspired Lighting Effects

Lighting plays a huge role in setting the right mood for your party. In the 80s, funky, colorful lighting was everywhere, from disco balls to colored spotlights.

Lighting Ideas:

Disco Balls: A classic choice! Hang a disco ball above your dance floor to capture the essence of 80s nightlife.
Laser Lights: Use laser lights in various colors to simulate the energy of an 80s rave or nightclub.

Glow-in-the-Dark Effects:

Blacklights: Set up blacklight fixtures around the venue to make neon decorations, clothing, and body paint pop.
Glow Sticks and Neon Tubes: Place these around the room or hand them out to guests for an interactive experience.

10. Retro Candy Wrappers & Posters

Old-school candy wrappers from the 80s can be used as nostalgic decor elements, adding a bit of fun and color to your space.

Candy Wrapper Uses:

Banner Decorations: Tape or string together retro candy wrappers to form a vibrant banner that can be draped across tables or walls.
Framed Posters: Frame vintage candy wrappers or old advertisements from 80s brands for a quirky piece of artwork.

80s Brand Posters:

Coca-Cola: Use old Coca-Cola posters featuring the iconic 80s logo.
Chupa Chups: These lollipop posters are colorful and instantly recognizable for an 80s-themed party.

11. 80s Movie Posters and Memorabilia

Movies from the 80s were a huge part of pop culture, from sci-fi hits to teen comedies. These films left a lasting mark, making their memorabilia a perfect addition to your 80s party decor.

Must-Have Movie Posters:

The Breakfast Club: This classic coming-of-age film is an iconic 80s piece. Use a large poster as the centerpiece of your party wall.
Back to the Future: A nod to time travel with some great imagery, these posters are guaranteed to bring back memories.

Themed Party Decor:

Action Figures and Collectibles: Display 80s-themed action figures like He-Man, GI Joe, or Star Wars toys on your shelves or tables.

12. Funky 80s Wall Art and Graffiti

Bring the urban and street vibes of the 80s to your party with graffiti and street art-inspired wall decorations.

Graffiti and Street Art Wall Decor:

DIY Graffiti Wall: Create a graffiti-inspired wall using spray paints or stencils, giving the party an edgy feel.
Colorful Street Signs: Hang neon-colored street signs featuring popular 80s lingo like “Radical” or “Gnarly.”

Pop Culture Icons:

Pop Art Style Prints: Include large prints or posters of pop culture icons from the 80s, like Madonna, Prince, or Michael Jackson.

13. 80s-Inspired Table Settings

Set the mood with an 80s-inspired table setting that channels vibrant colors and playful designs, perfect for dining or drink stations.

Table Setting Essentials:

Neon-Color Plates and Cups: Brightly colored plastic or paper plates and cups in neon green, pink, and yellow are key to making your table pop.
Plastic Silverware: Use neon-colored plastic forks, knives, and spoons for a fun, disposable option that fits perfectly into the 80s theme.
Checkerboard Tablecloths: A black-and-white checkerboard print mimics the classic 80s style and adds a visual element to your table décor.

Table Decorations:

Retro Candles: Place candles in neon holders or opt for LED candles that mimic neon lights for a safer alternative.
Mini Boomboxes as Place Settings: Use miniature boombox figurines as unique place holders for your guests. These can be DIYed or purchased from party shops.

14. DIY Cassette Tape Bunting

Cassette tapes were integral to the 80s music scene, and incorporating them into your decor can bring a unique, retro touch to your party.

How to Create Cassette Tape Bunting:

Materials Needed: Old cassette tapes (or replicas), string, glue, scissors.
Instructions: Carefully glue the cassette tapes in a line and attach them to a string to create a unique bunting. This can be draped along walls, across doorways, or even used as table runners for a quirky look.

15. 80s-Style Disco Dance Floor

A vibrant and interactive disco floor can instantly transform any party space into a retro dance haven. Create the perfect environment for your guests to show off their moves.

Disco Floor Ideas:

LED Dance Floor Panels: Rent or purchase LED floor panels that light up in various colors as guests dance. The flashing lights are sure to evoke memories of the famous 80s disco era.
Disco Ball Overhead: A large, spinning disco ball suspended above the dance floor will add to the magical atmosphere, reflecting the lights across the room and creating a lively, high-energy vibe.

Disco Music Playlist:

Include classic 80s hits like “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees or “Super Freak” by Rick James for the ultimate dance party experience.

16. 80s-Inspired Ice Cream Bar

What could be better than a retro ice cream bar to bring back childhood memories? A DIY ice cream bar lets guests create their own dessert while enjoying 80s-themed toppings and flavors.

Ice Cream Bar Essentials:

Classic Ice Cream Flavors: Offer flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry — staples from the 80s.
Retro Toppings: Include toppings like sprinkles, chocolate syrup, and whipped cream in neon-colored bowls.

Fun 80s-Inspired Toppings:

Gummy Bears: A sweet throwback to 80s candy.
Nerds Candy: A crunchy, colorful addition that will add fun to your ice cream bar.
Neon Cookie Crumbles: For an extra pop, crush some neon-colored cookies to sprinkle on top.

17. Themed Cocktail Station

Set up a cocktail station with drinks that embody the bold, colorful nature of the 80s. Think neon-colored cocktails and vintage drinkware to enhance your theme.

80s Cocktail Ideas:

Tequila Sunrise: A classic, colorful cocktail made with tequila, orange juice, and grenadine, embodying the neon hues of the era.
Blue Lagoon: This cocktail is vibrant and blue, perfect for the bold 80s theme.
Pink Lady: A fizzy and fruity pink drink that adds to the overall theme.

Decorative Drinkware:

Retro Glasses: Use cocktail glasses that have a classic or geometric 80s design.
Neon Drink Stir Sticks: Add some neon-colored stirrers or umbrellas to enhance the colorful appeal of your drinks.

18. 80s-Inspired Backdrops and Wall Murals

Transform your party venue with large, eye-catching backdrops or wall murals that showcase the essence of the 80s.

Backdrop Ideas:

Neon Skyline Backdrop: A neon city skyline at night, featuring electric blues and pinks, can transport guests to an 80s world of futuristic wonder.
Boombox Mural: A mural or large print featuring a boombox, cassette tapes, or popular music references will bring the 80s into full view.

Photo Opportunities:

Set up Instagram-worthy spots with unique murals and backdrops where guests can take pictures, creating lasting memories of the night.

19. 80s Candy-Themed Cake or Cupcakes

A fun way to bring more 80s elements to your party is with a themed cake or cupcakes featuring classic candy from the era.

Themed Cake Ideas:

Neon Candy Cake: Decorate a cake with vibrant neon-colored fondant and icing, and top it with fun 80s candy such as Pop Rocks or Nerds.
Cassette Tape Cake: Get creative by designing a cake shaped like a cassette tape, adding edible details to make it resemble a real 80s cassette.

Cupcake Ideas:

Colorful Frosting: Use bright, bold colors like neon pink, green, and yellow for frosting to mimic the aesthetic of 80s fashion.
Retro Toppers: Decorate your cupcakes with small 80s-inspired toppers like boomboxes, vinyl records, or cassette tapes.

20. 80s Video Game Corner

Incorporating video games into your party décor not only adds fun, but it’s also a great way to get guests interacting and reminiscing.

Setup for Video Games:

Retro Consoles: Set up a station with a retro gaming console, such as a Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) or Sega Genesis, and offer classic 80s games like Super Mario Bros., Pac-Man, or Donkey Kong.
DIY Game Station: If you don’t have access to vintage consoles, create a DIY game station with arcade-style video games available online or through apps.

Gaming Décor:

Arcade Game Cutouts: Use cardboard cutouts of old-school arcade games and place them around the room.
Pixelated Decorations: Decorate with pixelated designs, reminiscent of the digital art used in early video games.

21. DIY Neon Signage

Make your party space even more vibrant by creating your own neon signs. This will add a personalized touch while capturing the essence of the 80s neon aesthetic.

How to Make DIY Neon Signs:

Materials Needed: Neon-colored tubing (LED strips or neon-effect lights), sturdy wireframe, and a power source.
Instructions: Create words or shapes (like “Rad” or “Totally Tubular”) by bending neon tubing around a wireframe. Alternatively, use neon LED strips to form designs like lightning bolts, cassette tapes, or other 80s symbols.

Suggested Sign Ideas:

“Rock On”: A fun sign that adds energy to any corner of the room.
“Electric Avenue”: A famous song reference that works perfectly for an 80s-themed event.

22. 80s-Inspired Clothing and Dress Code

Encourage your guests to dress in 80s-inspired clothing to enhance the authenticity of your party. You can even offer fun accessories to complete their looks.

Clothing and Accessories:

Neon Leg Warmers and Fishnet Gloves: These iconic accessories were all the rage in the 80s and will give your guests a chance to embrace the fashion of the time.
High-Waisted Jeans and T-Shirts: Let your guests rock their favorite graphic tees and high-waisted denim, which were staples in 80s fashion.
Big Hair and Wigs: Encourage guests to sport voluminous hair or provide wigs for them to wear during the party.

Costume Contest:

Best 80s Look: Host a costume contest with categories like “Best Mullet” or “Most Neon,” rewarding the guests with the most authentic looks.

23. 80s-Inspired Party Favors

Send your guests home with party favors that will remind them of the fun 80s era. These small gifts can serve as keepsakes from the night.

Retro Party Favor Ideas:

Rubik’s Cubes: A fun and challenging party favor that’s an iconic 80s toy. You can even personalize them with your party logo.
Mini Boombox Keychains: Give each guest a mini boombox keychain as a nod to the 80s music scene.
Neon Slap Bracelets: Another popular 80s accessory, slap bracelets are fun and affordable party favors.

24. 80s Dance Off and Dance Floor Decorations

To keep the energy high and your guests entertained, consider hosting a 80s-style dance-off. Pair this with some cool dance floor décor to really bring it to life.

Dance-Off Setup:

Classic 80s Dance Moves: Encourage guests to show off their best 80s dance moves, like the moonwalk, the robot, and the wave.
DJ Playlist: Curate a playlist of the best 80s dance tracks, including hits from artists like Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Rick Astley.

Dance Floor Decorations:

Reflective Disco Balls: Hang multiple disco balls above the dance floor for that sparkling, retro vibe.
LED Dance Floor Tiles: Set up flashing LED tiles for guests to dance on, creating a truly immersive 80s disco experience.

25. 80s-Themed Confetti and Streamers

End your party with a bang by using colorful confetti and streamers that match the vibrant energy of the 80s.

Confetti Ideas:

Neon Confetti: Use bright, neon-colored confetti to celebrate the end of the night. This works perfectly with the blacklight lighting setup, making the confetti glow.
Cassette Tape Confetti: Cut out mini cassette tape shapes from metallic paper to throw around during the party.

Streamers and Banners:

Neon Streamers: Hang up neon-colored streamers around the room, creating a bright and festive environment.
“Radical” Banner: Display fun, 80s-inspired phrases like “Let’s Party” or “Totally Rad” on banners across the room.

Conclusion

Throwing an 80s-themed party is all about capturing the exuberant, colorful, and high-energy vibe of the decade. By incorporating these 25 decoration ideas into your party planning, you can create an unforgettable, immersive experience for your guests. From neon lights and disco balls to funky photo booths and 80s-inspired food, your party will transport everyone back to the fun-filled days of the 1980s.

By paying attention to the little details and embracing the bold and vibrant aesthetic of the 80s, you’ll be sure to host a party that your guests will remember for years to come. So go ahead, plan your 80s bash, and get ready to relive the glory days of this totally tubular era!