You’re a 90s kid, right? Born in the 90s or even the 80s like me, but your childhood is defined by this decade. You remember all the great cartoons, the awesome music, TV shows and the movies, but time marches on, and now you’re reaching those decade milestones, so what better way to celebrate than a nostalgic evening of paying homage to those formative years again.
Don’t worry 90s kids, this guide has got you covered for how to do just that. So, crack open a Capri Sun, slap on a snapback and put on some hip hop and let’s dive in.
Picking The Right 90s Venue
Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering with close friends or a full-blown blast-from-the-past extravaganza, you need to pick the right venue to set the stage for the night.
Throwback House Party: There’s nothing quite like the comfort and familiarity of hosting the party at home or a friend’s place. Transform your living room into a ’90s paradise by clearing out furniture to make space for a dance floor or cozy hangout area. Lay out colorful cushions and bean bags. Don’t forget to decorate the walls with ’90s posters and memorabilia, like iconic movie posters, band posters, and TV show artwork. Set up a TV or projector to play classic ’90s movies, cartoons or TV shows throughout the party.
Nostalgic Arcade: Wow how I miss the hours I spent honing my hadoken skills on Street Fighter 2 in my local arcade. Thankfully, these retro gems are making a comeback in many cities, offering a range of vintage pinball machines, arcade games, air hockey, and skee-ball. Many of these come back arcades host these retro games. Your guests will have a blast competing for high scores and reliving this golden era of gaming.
Roller Skating Rink: Relive the magic of the ’90s roller skating craze by booking a roller skating rink for your party. Many rinks offer themed nights and are happy to accommodate a ’90s-themed event. Encourage your guests to come dressed in their best roller disco outfits and provide neon glow sticks to really light up the rink. Skating to the tunes of the ’90s is sure to create a nostalgic atmosphere that’ll have everyone reminiscing about the good ol’ days.
Retro Bar or Club: Look for bars or clubs in your area that have a ’90s theme or are willing to host a throwback night. Work with the venue to set up a special ’90s-themed section for your party, complete with decorations and activities.
Outdoor Retro Picnic: I loved doing this with my friends back in the day. Lay out some picnic blankets in your local park or even your own yard and bring along portable speakers to play your epic ’90s playlist. Encourage your guests to dress in their best 90s gear, and don’t forget to bring some classic outdoor games like frisbee, Hacky Sack, or even a jump rope for some old-school fun.
Themed Event Spaces: Look for event spaces or community centers that allow you to customize the decor and theme of your party. You can work with event planners or decorators to transform the space into a ’90s wonderland with colorful decorations, neon lights, and nostalgic visuals.
Decorate Your 90s Space
You’ve picked your venue now you’ve gotta decorate it because a party without decorations is just, meh and a 90s party without any is tragic. Here’s some ideas to get you thinking.
Neon Extravaganza: Neon colors were all the rage in the ’90s, so make sure to incorporate them generously throughout your party space. Hang neon streamers, banners, and fairy lights to create a lively and vibrant atmosphere. You can even get creative and make neon signs with phrases like “All That” or “As If!” to give your decorations that extra retro pop.
Retro Posters and Memorabilia: Deck your walls with a collage of iconic ’90s posters and memorabilia. From movie posters of classic films like “Jurassic Park” and “Titanic” to music posters featuring the Spice Girls, Nirvana, and Tupac.. Don’t forget to display vintage action figures, Beanie Babies, and other collectibles from the era to add an extra layer of sentimentality for you and your guests.
Glow-in-the-Dark Delight: Hands up who had those glow in the dark moon and stars on their ceiling? I did! These were a staple of ’90s sleepovers and parties. Now’s the time to stick them back up, stick glow-in-the-dark stickers on walls, and set up a black light area to make everything come alive. Encourage your guests to wear fluorescent clothing and accessories for an even more immersive experience.
Lava Lamps and Mood Rings: Bring back the hypnotic allure of lava lamps as centerpieces or decor items throughout the party space. The swirling colors and gentle glow will add a sense of nostalgia and relaxation. Provide mood rings for your guests to try on and discuss what they reveal.
Decades Collage: Create a ’90s timeline collage featuring pictures of celebrities, major events, and technological advancements from the decade. This visual journey will be a great conversation piece and help spark fond memories and discussions.
Cartoon Cutouts: Place life-size cutouts of beloved ’90s cartoon characters like The Rugrats, Power Rangers, or Sailor Moon around the party space. These cutouts will not only bring back that warm nostalgia feeling but also provide great opportunities for photo ops and selfies.
Backdrop of Movie and TV Scenes: Create a photo backdrop showcasing famous movie scenes or TV show settings from the ’90s. For example, you could have a Friends-themed backdrop with the iconic orange couch or a Jurassic Park-inspired jungle backdrop. This will encourage your guests to strike poses and recreate their favorite moments from the era.
Cassette Tape and CD Decor: Embrace the technology of the time by using cassette tapes and CDs as decorations. Hang cassette tapes on strings as garlands or create a curtain of CDs. Use these items as place cards or table settings by writing guests’ names on them with a metallic marker.
Read More: 90s Cartoon Theme Party
90s Style Invitations
It’s so easy now to just make a social media event and send out invites that way, but it’s also kinda dull. You remember the days before all this? When actual paper invitations were sent out? Make your guests feel more connected and excited about the party with these suggestions.
Choose the Right Design: Think neon colors, geometric shapes, and bold patterns. Use a retro font that gives off a cassette tape or graffiti vibe. If you’re not confident in your graphic design skills, there are plenty of online tools and templates that you can use to create eye-catching invitations.
Cartoon Characters and Icons: Incorporate iconic cartoon characters and symbols from the ’90s to give your invitations that extra dose of nostalgia. Imagine the excitement on your guests’ faces when they see their favorite childhood characters! From the likes of SpongeBob SquarePants and Pikachu to Doug and The Real Monsters, the choices are endless.
Incorporate ’90s Sayings: Ah, the ’90s was full of unique catchphrases that we still remember today! Inject some ’90s slang or sayings into your invitations. Phrases like “As if!”, “Talk to the hand!”, or “Wassup!” will undoubtedly put a smiling cringe on your guests’ faces.
RSVP Details: Don’t forget to include all the essential party information, such as the date, time, location, dress code, and RSVP details. You could even include a line about whether guests should come prepared to showcase their dance moves or gaming skills.
Social Media: If you choose the social media event route, make sure you keep it interesting. Post old music videos, movie clips and trivia from the era to keep your guests engaged.
90s Party Tunes
Unless you’re aiming for a more specifically themed 90s party, like Hip Hop, the music choice you can have for your 90s kid party is endless. So many different genres were either invented in this decade or saw a real golden era for originality and creativity. In case you’ve forgotten though, here’s some ideas you can mix and match.
Boy Bands and Pop Divas: Start the party off with some infectious boy band hits and powerful pop anthems that ruled the ’90s airwaves. Include classics from the Backstreet Boys like “I Want It That Way,” NSYNC’s “Bye Bye Bye,” and Britney Spears’ “Oops!… I Did It Again.” Spice Girls’ empowering tracks like “Wannabe” and “Spice Up Your Life” are a must-have on the playlist.
Grunge and Alternative Rock: There’s so many to choose from like Nirvana, Smashing Pumpkins, Weezer and Green Day. Don’t forget the Brit Pop invasion from bands like Blur and Oasis too.
Hip-Hop and R&B Classics: The ’90s brought us some of the most influential hip-hop and R&B tracks of all time. Get the party grooving with iconic songs like Tupac’s “California Love,” Notorious B.I.G.’s “Mo Money Mo Problems,” and Dr. Dre’s “Still D.R.E.” Sing and dance along to TLC’s “No Scrubs” and Destiny’s Child’s “Say My Name.”
Dance and Euro-Pop: Keep the dance floor pumping with infectious dance and Euro-pop tracks that had everyone moving in the ’90s. Add in Haddaway’s “What Is Love,” Corona’s “Rhythm of the Night,” and Ace of Base’s “The Sign.” Don’t forget Vengaboys’ “We Like to Party (The Vengabus)” and Snap!’s “Rhythm Is a Dancer.”
Movie Soundtracks: Bring the nostalgia of ’90s movie soundtracks to your playlist. Add “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston from “The Bodyguard,” “My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion from “Titanic,” and “Kiss from a Rose” by Seal from “Batman Forever.” Get your guests singing along to “Circle of Life” and “Hakuna Matata” from “The Lion King” or “I Believe I Can Fly” by R. Kelly from “Space Jam.”
TV Show Theme Songs: Include some iconic TV show theme songs that will have your guests singing along and reminiscing about their favorite shows. Add “Friends Theme (I’ll Be There for You)” by The Rembrandts, “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” by Will Smith, and The X-Files Theme
’90s Dance Classics: Turn up the energy with some ’90s dance classics that had everyone hitting the dance floor. Include tracks like “Finally” by CeCe Peniston, “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back)” by the Backstreet Boys, and “Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now)” by C+C Music Factory. Dance like nobody’s watching to “Macarena” by Los Del Rio and “Mambo No. 5” by Lou Bega.
One-Hit Wonders: Don’t forget to sprinkle in some one-hit wonders that became instant classics in the ’90s. Add “MmmBop” by Hanson, “Tubthumping” by Chumbawamba, and “Cotton Eye Joe” by Rednex.
Here’s a few playlists to get you started:
All Out 90s – This playlist has everything you could possibly need for a 90s kid party.
Throw On Some 90s Threads
You remember 90s fashion, right? That colorful mix of grunge, preppy, hip-hop, and everything in between. Be encouraged to dive into your closets, or even your parents closets, or hit up thrift stores to find the perfect ’90s outfits. Here are some outfit recommendations to help you on your way.
Grunge Chic: Grunge fashion was all about embracing the effortlessly cool and edgy look. Rock baggy jeans or distressed denim, paired with oversized flannel shirts tied around the waist. Add a graphic T-shirt or a band shirt for that authentic grunge vibe. Complete the look with chunky combat boots or Doc Martens and don’t forget to tousle that hair for that just-got-out-of-bed look.
Preppy and Colorful: For those who prefer a more polished and vibrant look, the preppy style is the way to go. High-waisted skirts or pleated plaid skirts, paired with a crisp button-down shirt, or a polo shirt for a preppy twist. Layering was key in the ’90s, so wear a sweater tied around the neck or shoulders. Finish off the outfit with classic loafers or Mary Jane shoes for a touch of sophistication.
Hip-Hop Hype: Baggy jeans or cargo pants, often sagged slightly, were a staple of this style. Pair them with oversized graphic T-shirts, basketball jerseys, or a sporty bomber jacket. Add a snapback hat, bandana headband, or beanie to complete the look. Sneakers were the go-to footwear, so don’t forget those fresh kicks!
Fresh Prince Style: Channel the legendary style of the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Will Smith himself. Think bright and patterned shirts with bold prints, paired with colorful, high-waisted pants or shorts. Have fun with your outfit choice by mixing and matching vibrant colors and funky patterns. Don’t forget to accessorize with statement belts, chunky jewelry, and of course, a pair of fresh white sneakers.
Sporty Spice: If you’re feeling sporty and adventurous, the athleisure trend of the ’90s is an excellent option. Tracksuits or athletic wear in bold colors like neon pink, electric blue, or lime green are the way to go. Windbreakers and track jackets are also great additions to the outfit. Top it off with athletic sneakers or chunky platform shoes for that perfect sporty chic look.
Accessories Galore: Have fun with accessories, as they are what tie all of ’90s fashion together. Chokers and slap bracelets are a must. Scrunchies were all the rage too. Sunglasses with colored lenses or tiny sunglasses (à la The Matrix) complete that ultimate ’90s look.
90s Party Food & Drink
Get ready to satisfy those ’90s kid cravings with a delicious selection of nostalgic snacks and drinks that will transport you and your guests back to the golden era of munchies. From iconic treats to classic beverages, these food and drink options will have everyone reminiscing about their childhood favorites.
Lunchables: Remember those neatly packaged lunch kits that made us feel like mini gourmets? Serve up an assortment of Lunchables with crackers, cheese, and mini pepperoni for a fun and easy snack option.
Dunkaroos: No ’90s party is complete without Dunkaroos! These sweet treats, featuring cookies with icing dip, will have you feeling like kids again.
Gushers and Fruit Roll-Ups: Bring back the fruity fun with Gushers and Fruit Roll-Ups. These chewy snacks were a lunchbox staple and will surely spark some sweet nostalgia.
Pop Rocks and Warheads: For a taste explosion, provide Pop Rocks candy and Warheads sour candies.
Bagel Bites: These mini pizza bagels were a hit at every ’90s gathering. Warm up a batch of Bagel Bites for a quick and delicious snack option.
Cheez Balls and Doritos: Dive into the world of cheesy goodness with Cheez Balls and Doritos. These crunchy snacks are always a winner.
Pizza Time: Set up a DIY pizza station, just like the ones we loved at sleepovers in the ’90s. Provide pre-made pizza crusts, a variety of sauce options, and an array of toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, and cheese.
Read More: 90s Party Food Ideas
Drinks
I know this is a 90s kid reminiscent party, but that doesn’t mean you can’t let your hair down with the usual boozy options you’d expect at a party. If you really wanna revisit your childhood drinks, try these on for size. Maybe you could make them more interesting?
Capri Suns: Transport your guests back to their school days with Capri Suns, the ultimate juice box choice of the ’90s. Ever try it with vodka?
Surge Soda:Remember this delicious citrusy soda from the 90s? Well it’s back, baby! Get your hands on some for your party.
Don’t forget to include water, juice and other soft drinks for those guests who don’t want to deal with crazy sugar rushes from 90s drinks. Speaking of sugar rushes, these sweet treats should take you right back.
Ring Pops and Push Pops: Relive the joy of wearing Ring Pops on your fingers and Push Pops as a delightful treat with these candy favorites.
Hostess Snacks: Set out a tray of Hostess treats like Twinkies, Ding Dongs, and Ho Hos.
Pudding Cups: Serve up individual pudding cups in various flavors for a creamy and satisfying dessert option.
Jello Cups: Jello cups with whipped cream on top. A time when deserts were simple.
Games & Activities
From retro gaming to trivia challenges, these activities will keep the party buzzing with nostalgic energy.
Retro Gaming Tournament: Set up a gaming station with classic consoles like Nintendo 64 or PlayStation, featuring games that defined the ’90s. Host a retro gaming tournament with favorites like Super Mario 64, Mario Kart 64, GoldenEye 007, and Super Smash Bros. Encourage friendly competition and see who will be crowned the ultimate ’90s gaming champion.
’90s Trivia Contest: Test your guests’ knowledge of the ’90s with an epic trivia contest. Prepare a variety of questions about TV shows, movies, music, fashion, and pop culture from the decade. Divide your guests into teams and have them compete to see who can answer the most trivia questions correctly. Don’t forget to prepare some fun and challenging bonus rounds to keep things exciting!
Name That Tune – ’90s Edition: Create a playlist of iconic ’90s songs spanning different genres. Play short snippets of each song and have your guests guess the song title and artist as quickly as possible. This interactive game will have everyone singing along and reminiscing about their favorite tunes from the era.
Karaoke Extravaganza: Set up a karaoke station with a selection of ’90s hits for your guests to sing their hearts out. From boy band ballads to powerful pop anthems and grunge rock classics. Create a friendly competition and award prizes for the most entertaining performances.
Coloring Station – ’90s Style: Create a coloring station featuring ’90s-themed coloring pages and provide a variety of colored pencils and markers. Your guests can relax and enjoy some creative downtime as they color in their favorite cartoon characters, movie scenes, and music icons from the ’90s.
Dance-Off and Limbo: Bring out the dance floor and encourage your guests to showcase their best dance moves to the iconic songs of the ’90s. Host a dance-off where guests can strut their stuff and get everyone moving.
Dance Dance Revolution (DDR): If you have access to a Dance Dance Revolution (DDR) game, set it up for your guests to enjoy. DDR was a popular dance video game in the ’90s, and it’s a fantastic way to get everyone dancing.
DIY Friendship Bracelets: Bring back the charm of ’90s friendship bracelets by setting up a DIY bracelet-making station. Provide different colored strings and beads, and let your guests create their own customized bracelets to take home as party favors and keepsakes.
Read More: 90s Party Game Ideas
90s Party Favors
As the party winds down, surprise your guests with epic ’90s-themed party favors and giveaways that will leave them with cherished mementos of the night.
Nostalgic Candy Bags: Prepare personalized goody bags filled with an assortment of nostalgic candies and treats from the ’90s. Include classics like Ring Pops, Pop Rocks, Push Pops, Fun Dip, and Bubble Tape. Adding a few packs of trading card gum will surely spark some laughs and memories.
Mixtape USB Drives: Give your guests a modern twist on a ’90s classic by creating mixtape USB drives. Load these drives with a curated playlist of hit songs from the ’90s, along with a custom-designed cover art inspired by cassette tapes.
Customized ’90s T-Shirts: Design and print customized T-shirts featuring iconic ’90s phrases, logos, or images related to the party theme. You could give these out to guests as they arrive to get them in the spirit.
Classic ’90s Toys and Memorabilia: Send your guests home with a piece of the ’90s by gifting them classic toys and memorabilia. Consider handing out mini Tamagotchis, Beanie Babies, retro Polly Pockets, or colorful slap bracelets.
Mini Game Consoles: For the gaming enthusiasts, consider giving away mini game consoles that come pre-loaded with classic ’90s games. These pocket-sized devices will keep the nostalgia alive, even after the party is over.
’90s Movie Night Package: Create a ’90s movie night package by assembling a DVD or Blu-ray of a classic ’90s movie and pairing it with microwave popcorn, movie theater candy boxes, and a retro-style movie ticket.
Cassette Tape Keychains: Pay homage to the beloved cassette tapes of the ’90s by gifting guests cassette tape keychains. These miniature replicas will evoke fond memories of mixtapes and Walkmans.
Mini Posters and Stickers: Provide guests with mini posters or stickers featuring iconic movie posters, music album covers, or TV show artwork from the ’90s. They can use these to decorate their rooms or personal belongings.
90s DIY Crafts: Create DIY craft kits that allow guests to make their own ’90s-inspired creations. Include materials for making friendship bracelets, tie-dye shirts, or even perler bead art.
Saved by the Bell-style Yearbooks: Create personalized yearbooks for your guests, filled with pictures and memories from the party. Leave space for guests to sign each other’s yearbooks.
Wow! I have to tell you I really enjoyed writing this guide for you. It made me feel very nostalgic for my younger years, and I hope it did you too. Think I’ll make my next party a 90s themed one, I feel like I need to relive that era again. I hope you have an excellent party with your friends and don’t forget, even though you’re not a kid anymore you will always be a 90s kid in your heart 🙂
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