Hey Y’all! It’s time to kick up your cowboy boots and take a trip back in time to the 90s era of country music. Relive a time, where denim was king, line dancing ruled the dance floors, and good ol’ fashioned fun was the order of the day. In this post, I’ll guide you through every aspect of this fabulous 90s country party theme, whether you’re attending or hosting. Either way, you’ll be hootin’ and hollerin’ in anticipation for your big night. Let’s get into it!
A Barn Stormin’ 90s Country Venue
Like any party the venue selection is important to set the stage for an unforgettable experience. Let’s explore a variety of options, each offering a unique and nostalgic ambiance.
Rustic Barn Gathering: Transport your guests to a bygone era by choosing a charming rustic barn as your party venue. With its weathered wooden beams, exposed rafters, and the faint scent of hay in the air, a barn exudes authentic country charm. Imagine string lights twinkling overhead, casting a warm glow over the wooden dance floor where friends and family can boot-scoot to their favorite 90s country hits. The barn’s rustic charm will make you feeling like you’ve stepped into an old-school country music video.
Country Ranch Retreat: For an open-air extravaganza, consider a sprawling country ranch as your party destination. Picture a landscape with rolling hills, and the sound of gentle breezes rustling through tall grass. This venue option offers plenty of space for outdoor games, such as horseshoe toss and cornhole, creating a lovely country atmosphere for mingling and making memories. Set up cozy seating areas with hay bales adorned with soft cushions, providing a perfect spot for guests to kick back and enjoy the country vibes.
Backyard Hoedown: If you’re looking for a more intimate setting, transforming your own backyard into a country hoedown is the way to go. Deck the space with rustic decorations, fairy lights draped over tree branches, and vintage wooden barrels as makeshift tables. Create a DIY dance floor using wooden pallets, and don’t forget to designate a bonfire area where guests can gather ’round to roast marshmallows and share stories under the stars. This laid-back setting will make your 90s country party feel like a homecoming celebration.
Country-Themed Bar or Honky-Tonk: If a private venue isn’t in the cards, consider hosting your party at a country-themed bar or honky-tonk. These establishments often embrace the spirit of the 90s country scene with memorabilia, neon signs, and classic country tunes playing all night long. Reserve a section of the bar for your party.
Country Clubhouse Extravaganza: For a touch of sophistication combined with country flair, consider renting a country clubhouse or community center. With their spacious interiors, these venues offer flexibility in layout and decor. Bring in hay bales, Western-themed props, and vintage country music posters to transform the space into a nostalgic haven. You’ll have ample room for line dancing, karaoke, and all the delightful activities that’ll make your 90s country party a hit.
Decorate in a 90s country style
You’ve picked the venue so now you’ve gotta decide how to decorate it. You’ll wanna go for a country theme of course, so think hay bales and gingham tablecloths. Here’s some ideas to get you inspired.
Entrance and Welcome Area: Set the mood right from the entrance by adorning it with Western-style signage that reads, “Welcome to the 90s Country Shindig!” Hang a vintage wooden sign with swinging saloon doors, or use cowboy boots filled with wildflowers as eye-catching decor. Consider placing hay bales or wooden barrels at the entrance to create a warm country welcome.
Barnyard Chic Decor: If you’re hosting the party in a barn or barn-like venue, make the most of the rustic charm. Drape fairy lights from the rafters to create a magical, starlit effect. Hang country-themed banners and bunting across the walls, adorned with cowboy boots and horseshoe motifs. Create cozy nooks with haystack seating areas, complete with plaid cushions and quilts, where guests can relax and enjoy the festivities.
Country Music Posters and Memorabilia: Decorate the walls with posters and memorabilia of iconic 90s country artists. Classic album covers, concert posters, and framed photographs of artists like Garth Brooks, Shania Twain, and Alan Jackson will add a nostalgic touch to the venue. Scatter vintage microphones and cowboy hats as decorative accents to enhance the country music atmosphere.
String Lights and Mason Jars: Illuminate the party space with the warm glow of string lights, which perfectly complement the country ambiance. Hang them along fences, walls, and even from the ceiling. Add a touch of rustic charm by placing candles or LED tea lights in mason jars and scattering them around the venue. These glowing accents will create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, reminiscent of starlit nights on the open range.
Bandanas and Cowboy Hats: Incorporate bandanas and cowboy hats as versatile decor elements. Use bandanas as table runners, napkin holders, or even chair sashes. Hang cowboy hats on the walls and arrange a collection of them on a table as a statement centerpiece, inviting guests to pick their favorite for photo ops.
Vintage Country Music Props: Deck the party space with a few well-placed vintage country music props. Display old-fashioned microphones, vintage radios, and vinyl records as eye-catching decor pieces. For an extra-special touch, consider using cowboy boots as flower vases or place settings for a creative and rustic table setup.
Country-Inspired Table Settings: Adorn the tables with country-themed table settings. Use checkered or denim tablecloths, and opt for wooden or metal cutlery and plates for a rustic touch. Create personalized place cards with cowboy hat or guitar-shaped designs. Mason jar glasses or engraved mugs with country motifs can serve as charming drinkware.
Hay Bale Seating Areas: In addition to traditional seating, offer hay bale seating areas throughout the venue. Arrange the hay bales with cozy blankets and plump cushions to ensure guests have a comfortable spot to kick back. These seating arrangements also provide excellent photo opportunities for your guests.
Round ‘Em Up With Invitations
You can either just use a social media even to send out invites, but I prefer paper ones instead as they’re more personable, plus you can be more creative with your designs. If you’re stuck for ideas, here’s some to get you thinking.
Country Lyrics and Playful Phrases: Set the tone right from the start by incorporating classic country song lyrics and playful phrases into your invitations. Consider lines like “Dust off your boots, it’s time to two-step!” or “Saddle up, partner! We’re throwin’ a hootenanny!” This playful language will immediately transport your guests back to the 90s country scene.
Custom Country Graphics: To add an extra touch of country charm, design custom country-themed graphics for your invitations. Think cowboy hats, cowboy boots, guitars, or even a silhouette of a cowboy on horseback against a picturesque sunset.
Country Ticket-Style Invitations: Channel the spirit of a country music concert by designing your invitations as ticket stubs. Include a section where guests can RSVP by “claiming their seat” at the country party extravaganza.
DIY Vintage Postcards: For a rustic and nostalgic approach, send out DIY vintage postcards as invitations. Find or create postcards featuring iconic 90s country artists or landmarks, and handwrite the party details on the back. Not only will this evoke a sense of wanderlust and adventure, but your guests will also appreciate the personal touch.
Calligraphy and Country Fonts: If you want your invitations to exude elegance with a hint of country flair, consider using calligraphy or country-style fonts for the text.
Include Dress Code Suggestions: Encourage your guests to embrace the 90s country fashion by adding dress code suggestions in the invitations. Mention attire like cowboy boots, denim jackets, plaid shirts, and straw hats. Let them know that dressing the part is all part of the fun!
Social Media: If you choose to create an event on social media, be sure to include a country themed banner and profile pictures. Keep your guests excited by posting 90s country music videos. You can even add fun trivia questions and invite requests for the play list.
If the 80s were more your country decade, then check out my article here.
A Boot-Scootin’ 90s Country Playlist
So far you could be forgiven that this is just like any other country music theme party but to make it a truly 90s style one, it’s all in the music selection. Line dancing really went mainstream in the 90s, see if you can get a spontaneous line dance going with these 90s country tunes.
Line Dance Classics: A 90s country party wouldn’t be complete without line dancing! Get the crowd movin’ and groovin’ with line dance classics like “Achy Breaky Heart” by Billy Ray Cyrus, “Watermelon Crawl” by Tracy Byrd, and “Tush Push” by Jim Verraros. For those who might be new to line dancing, consider having a brief tutorial before the dance floor heats up.
Empowering Anthems: Keep the energy high with empowering anthems that are sure to get everyone singing along. Include chart-toppers like Shania Twain’s “Man! I Feel Like a Woman,” Faith Hill’s “This Kiss,” and Reba McEntire’s “Fancy.”
Dance Floor Fillers: Maintain the party’s momentum with dance floor fillers that’ll have everyone up on their feet. Include lively hits like “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” by Brooks & Dunn, “She’s in Love with the Boy” by Trisha Yearwood, and “Chattahoochee” by Alan Jackson.
Duet Duels: Spice up the party with duet duels, where guests can sing along to famous country collaborations. Include unforgettable duets like “It’s Your Love” by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill, “Does He Love You” by Reba McEntire and Linda Davis, and “Whiskey Lullaby” by Brad Paisley and Alison Krauss. This interactive segment will have everyone joining in the fun.
Two-Steppin’ Favorites: For those who love traditional country dancing, include two-steppin’ favorites that’ll keep the dance floor packed. Songs like “Forever and Ever, Amen” by Randy Travis, “I Like It, I Love It” by Tim McGraw, and “Here’s a Quarter (Call Someone Who Cares)” by Travis Tritt will keep the country vibes alive and well.
Iconic 90s Country Ballads: End the evening with timeless ballads that’ll tug at your guests’ heartstrings. Include classics like “Friends in Low Places” by Garth Brooks, “I Swear” by John Michael Montgomery, and “Don’t Take the Girl” by Tim McGraw. These heartfelt songs are perfect for swaying in each other’s arms on the dance floor.
Here’s a couple of playlists to use for your party:
Huge collection of 90s country classics
Some 90s country dance floor fillers
Dress in some 90s country style
No matter what the era, country style is always in style somewhere. This is a country party, so it’s time to embrace your inner cowboy and cowgirl with these outfit ideas.
Denim Galore: Denim is the epitome of country fashion, so make sure it’s a central element in your outfits. Suggest denim jackets, vests, or chambray shirts for both men and women. Ladies can opt for denim skirts or dresses, while men can rock their favorite denim jeans.
Plaid Perfection: Plaid shirts are a staple of 90s country fashion, so encourage guests to don their best checked or gingham patterns. From traditional flannels to modern fitted plaid shirts, there’s a plaid style for everyone to embrace the country look.
Cowboy Boots and Booties: No country outfit is complete without a fabulous pair of cowboy boots or booties. Whether they’re classic leather or stylishly embroidered, cowboy boots are a must-have accessory to complete the look. For those who prefer a more modern twist, suggest trendy cowboy booties that pair well with dresses and jeans alike.
Belt Buckles and Western Belts: Add a touch of country bling with belt buckles and Western-style belts. Encourage guests to wear eye-catching belt buckles with country motifs or classic Western designs. Ladies can accessorize with Western belts featuring conchos or intricate tooled leather patterns.
Country Dresses and Skirts: For a more feminine look, suggest country dresses or skirts that exude Southern charm. Flowing maxi dresses with floral patterns or vintage-inspired country skirts with fringes are perfect choices.
Western-Inspired Accessories: Encourage guests to get creative with Western-inspired accessories. From bandanas tied around necks or worn as headbands to statement leather cuffs or bolo ties, these small details will really bring any country outfit together.
Country Glam and Glitter: For guests who want to add a touch of glitz to their country chic outfit, suggest country glam and glitter elements. Ladies can don sequined cowboy hats, sparkling belt buckles, or rhinestone-studded denim jackets. Gentlemen can embrace the glimmer with sequined vests or metallic accessories.
Hairstyles and Hats: Suggest hairstyles that complement the country look, such as loose waves, messy braids, or classic ponytails. Guests with longer hair can opt for romantic half-up, half-down hairstyles or fishtail braids. And of course, don’t forget to show off those cowboy hats and cowgirl hats for added flair.
Indulge In Some 90s Southern Comfort Food & Cowboy Cocktails
The food and drinks at your 90s country party should be a feast of mouthwatering delights that pay homage to the rich culinary traditions of the South. From savory bites to refreshing sips, here’s some menu tips that’ll have your guests hankering for more.
BBQ Sliders: Start the party off right with finger-licking good BBQ sliders. Tender pulled pork or juicy smoked brisket, topped with tangy coleslaw and served on mini buns, will have guests coming back for seconds and thirds.
Biscuits and Gravy Bites: A true Southern classic, serve bite-sized biscuits smothered in rich, creamy sausage gravy. These delightful morsels will evoke memories of lazy Sunday mornings and country comfort.
Fried Green Tomatoes: Give your guests a taste of Southern charm with crispy fried green tomatoes. These tangy and savory treats, coated in a golden cornmeal crust, are a delicious nod to the South’s culinary heritage.
Pimento Cheese Stuffed Jalapeños: Add a bit of spice to the party with pimento cheese-stuffed jalapeños. The creamy, cheesy filling complements the kick of the jalapeños, making them the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Southern Fried Chicken: No Southern feast is complete without the golden goodness of Southern fried chicken. Serve up succulent pieces of chicken, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, seasoned with the perfect blend of spices.
Country-Style Ribs: For a hearty and flavorful main dish, present country-style ribs slow-cooked to perfection. The tender meat, slathered in a mouthwatering BBQ sauce, will have guests savoring every tender bite.
Vegetarian Jambalaya: Ensure that all guests can enjoy the feast with a vegetarian jambalaya option. A medley of flavorful vegetables and spices, simmered to perfection in a savory tomato broth, creates a delightful and satisfying dish.
Macaroni and Cheese: Elevate the classic macaroni and cheese to new heights by incorporating a blend of gooey cheeses and a crunchy breadcrumb topping.
Cornbread Muffins: Offer up savory and slightly sweet cornbread muffins that perfectly complement the Southern flavors on the menu. These fluffy delights are the ideal accompaniment to any country meal.
Southern Collard Greens: Serve up a side of slow-cooked collard greens, simmered with smoked ham hock, for that authentic Southern flavor.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Refresh your guests’ palates with a vibrant fruit salad bursting with seasonal fruits. A medley of juicy watermelon, sweet strawberries, and tangy pineapple will be a welcome addition to the feast.
Read More: 90s Party Food Ideas
Desserts
Pecan Pie: Treat your guests to the quintessential Southern dessert – pecan pie. The buttery crust, gooey filling, and crunchy pecans come together to create a heavenly sweet finale.
Banana Pudding: Delight in the creamy goodness of banana pudding, a Southern favorite. Layers of vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and luscious vanilla pudding will have guests swooning over each spoonful.
Peach Cobbler: Celebrate the bounty of the South with a delectable peach cobbler. Bubbling with ripe peaches and topped with a buttery, cinnamon-infused crust, this warm dessert is comfort on a plate.
Drinks
Cowboy Lemonade: Kick the party into high gear with a thirst-quenching cowboy lemonade. This refreshing concoction combines lemonade with a splash of iced tea and a hint of bourbon for a touch of Southern charm.
Southern Sweet Tea: No Southern gathering is complete without the quintessential Southern sweet tea. Serve it in charming mason jar glasses with plenty of ice
Mint Julep: Raise a glass to Southern tradition with the classic mint julep. This refreshing cocktail combines bourbon, mint, sugar, and crushed ice to create a timeless favorite.
Don’t forget to include the usual party selection of beers, juice and sodas.
Games and Activities: Line Dance Showdown and Country Fun Galore!
Keep the good times rollin’ at your 90s country party with an array of country-inspired games and activities that’ll have guests laughing, dancing, and bonding all night long. From classic favorites to creative contests, try some of these entertainment ideas to ensure your guests have a boot-stompin’ good time.
Line Dance Showdown: Gather everyone on the dance floor for a line dance showdown! Start with simple line dances like the Electric Slide or the Tush Push, and gradually progress to more intricate ones like the Watermelon Crawl and the Cowboy Cha-Cha. Appoint a “Line Dance Instructor” who can lead the steps and make sure everyone is having a blast. Don’t worry if some guests are new to line dancing—this is the perfect opportunity to learn together and create memorable moments.
Karaoke Country Hits: Set up a country karaoke corner and let your guests unleash their inner country stars! Prepare a selection of popular 90s country songs for them to choose from. From heartfelt ballads to upbeat anthems, guests can take turns belting out their favorite tunes. Make it even more entertaining by encouraging duets or group performances for a lively sing-along session.
Horseshoe Toss Challenge: Create a horseshoe toss game area for some friendly competition. Guests can team up or play individually, aiming to land the horseshoes around the stakes. Keep score and award small prizes to the top tossers.
Cowboy Hat Ring Toss: Give the classic ring toss game a country twist by using cowboy hats as targets. Guests can try their hand at tossing rings onto the brim of the cowboy hats for points. Make it even more challenging by setting varying distances for different point values.
Name That 90s Country Tune: Test your guests’ knowledge of 90s country music with a fun “Name That Tune” game. Play short snippets of iconic 90s country songs and have participants guess the song title and artist. Create teams for a lively team-based competition, and award bonus points for correct dance moves or singalongs.
Cowboy Boot Piñata: For a playful and nostalgic activity, have a cowboy boot-shaped piñata filled with treats and goodies. Blindfolded guests can take turns swinging at the piñata until it bursts, showering everyone with sweet surprises.
Best-Dressed Cowboy and Cowgirl Contest: Encourage guests to embrace the country chic dress code by hosting a “Best-Dressed Cowboy and Cowgirl” contest. Have a designated area for participants to strut their stuff and show off their stylish country ensembles. Let the party goers vote for their favorite looks, and crown the winners with fabulous party favors or special prizes.
Two-Step Dance-Off: Organize a two-step dance-off for those who are passionate about traditional country dancing. Let them showcase their two-stepping skills in a friendly competition. Pair up participants or let them choose their dance partners. Have a panel of judges, or let the audience cheer for their favorites.
Photo Booth Fun: Set up a photo booth area with country-themed props like cowboy hats, bandanas, and playful signs where guests can strike a pose and capture the memories with fun photo booth snapshots.
Read More: 90s Party Game Ideas
90s Country Favors & Giveaways
As the night winds down, show your heartfelt appreciation to your guests by sending them home with these delightful party favors.
Personalized Country Koozies: Keep the party spirit alive long after the celebration with personalized country-themed koozies. Print your party logo, date, or a fun country saying on the koozies to make them extra special.
Bandanas with a Personal Touch: Send your guests home with stylish bandanas. Have them embroidered with your party’s logo or a heartfelt “Thank Y’all” message. Guests can wear them as headbands, use them as neck scarves, or keep them as cherished souvenirs of your country-themed celebration.
Mini Cowboy Hat Keychains: These adorable souvenirs will serve as a constant reminder of the fun-filled night they spent two-stepping and line dancing. Customize them with guests’ names or initials for a personal touch.
Miniature Bottles: Fill small mason jars or miniature bottles with country-inspired treats or candies. Attach a cute label with the party date and a fun message like “Thanks for boot-scootin’ with us!” or “A little piece of country for you.
Country-Themed Coasters: Provide guests with country-themed coasters that combine both style and functionality. Whether it’s a design with cowboy boots, guitars, or vintage country posters, these coasters will be a thoughtful reminder of your 90s country party whenever they’re used.
Country Music Quote Magnets: Create custom magnets featuring famous country music quotes or lyrics. Add a touch of vintage charm with a rustic design and incorporate your party’s date.
Mini Cowboy Hat Photo Holders: For a charming and functional party favor, opt for mini cowboy hat photo holders. Guests can use them to display their favorite pictures from the party or any special memories they cherish.
Country-Themed Personalized Glassware: Toast to a fantastic night with personalized glassware like mason jar mugs or stemless wine glasses. Engrave guests’ names or initials, along with a country motif, to make them feel truly appreciated.
YeeHaw! You’ve reached the end of this 90s country party guide. Now the only thing left to do is have a rootin and a tootin good time with your friends and loved ones. I hope you have an absolute blast!
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