Retiring is a major accomplishment in the life of every person, and one worth celebrating. Now, in order to make it extra special, it’s always fun to make it a surprise party and create a memorable event for the retiree. To add an extra touch of festivity, though, why not pick a suitable party theme as well? A good party theme not only hypes up the atmosphere but also creates great photo opps to be remembered long after.
Of course, since the party is all about the retiree, it is essential you personalize it according to their taste. Think of their hobbies, favorite travel spots or perhaps their favorite decade. Anything come to mind?
Don’t worry because we’ve got you covered. Read our share of ideas down below and seek out some inspiration for the retirement celebration that’s bound to sweep the celebrant off their feet!
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Travel themes
There’s no denying that travel is one of the most exiting prospects in golden years. This why bon voyage retirement themes are always a good idea for travel enthusiasts. Are they fascinated with a culture half a world away, or enthralled with architecture of a European city? Here are a few ideas that will spark the vacation mood in the retiree!
Hawaiian theme
What with the current pandemic restrictions, staycations are much more probable than vacations, at least for the time being? With this in mind, why not bring the Aloha spirit to the party? This is a perfect theme for a spring or summer party, ideally held by the poolside, in a park or a backyard. After all, the colorful decorations will best come to the fore in an outside setting. Flowery clothes and trinkets are bound to be in line with the retirement colors dress code, and a luau banquet is a healthy food option for seniors.
Beach theme
Here’s another lively retirement celebration idea. Nothing says ‘life after work’ as a cocktail party near the water! Whether it’s situated on a real beach or you turn it into a pool party, fun is guaranteed. A bit of ocean-side festivity is always a good idea, and this versatile theme won’t disappoint. You can even transform it into a ‘Gone fishing’ theme with just a few lures hung as party decorations or go for the retro surf vibe in a surf shack! Add to that some breezy and light playlist with retirement songs and just like that you’ve got a cheery atmosphere.
Margaritaville party theme
Since we’ve mentioned cocktails, why not throw a party named after one of the most popular cocktails? The party got its name after Jimmy Buffet’s hit from the 70s, so you can even mix in a few other details from that decade.
In any case when it comes to Margaritaville – think tropical. Both Hawaiian and beach-themed decorations can work in your favor. Set the island mood with some bachata or salsa and let the guests have a dance-off. Wait, did we mention salsa? A salsa or a tiki bar is an irriplacable detail of this party, so take notes! As for party favors, colorful margarita glasses are a perfect gift for the guests to take away in remembrance of the event.
Jungle Safari theme
Now here’s a wild and exotic theme that must be among the most fun ideas for a retirement party. Picture some animal print tableware or, heck, imagine it as a dressing code idea. For the free-spirited retirees, this is a great theme for an informal party in the backyard, wouldn’t you agree? Add to that some engaging retirement games like yard darts for example. Just like that you’ll see the party guests turn into Survivor-like teams during an African jungle. And there you have it – a roaring success of a party!
Parisian theme
For the more elegant travel theme, go no further than the French capital. For the travel savvy retiree and for those who are yet to become one this will be the perfect retirement celebration. Want to put a cherry on top? Well, why not couple two themes into one – a matching ‘Roaring 20s’ vibe would be a great addition. Classy apparel and jazz music (think Edith Piaf discography or Moulin Rouge! Soundtrack) set the tone for a sophisticated evening. But, how about an Eiffel Tower cardboard standee prop for the fun photo memories? There are hundreds of décor ideas, so google away!
Hobbie-based themes
Being retired means having all the time in the world to do… well, whatever one likes to do. No matter what the retiree’s hobby is, why not commemorate the occasion by including their interests as well? Check out our ideas for the most common pursuits after retirement and see if you find them interesting:
A fishing trip
If you’ve ever been to a retirement party, you might’ve come a ‘Gone fishing’ saying. It’s a popular quote featured on signs, shirts or decorations – you might say it’s a retiree classic. That’s why you can’t go wrong with a fishing retirement theme, as it’s a quintessential representation of a life of leisure ahead. This theme will be especially interesting if the budget allows for renting a party boat and having the party on the water. Sounds exciting, right?
If you land on this choice – here’s another pun to incorporate as the party motto – “Good things come to those who bait.”
A gourmet luncheon
Is the retiree a cooking enthusiast? Then why not celebrate retirement in style – with a fine dining experience! For starters, dinner parties are a timeless classic when it comes to festive events. Whether it’s a grill-friendly meal that’s a certified crowd-pleaser or a more experimental dish from a foreign cuisine, the guests will surely enjoy it. Paired with some quality wine, it’s bound to be an elegant feast that will honor the newly retired loved one.
A picnic and a baseball game
If it’s not elegance but relaxation you’re aiming for, then why not spice up a picnic with a baseball game? This is one of the simplest themes, yet leaves you space for countless little ways in which you can add your touch to it. Even a minimal version, with an appetizer tray or a cupcake stand, some colorful LED candles for décor works fine. Baseball might be suggestive of a Fourth of July, but really it can be substituted with any other game the guests love.
Golfing theme
From the work force straight to the golf course! This here is possibly among the top dad retirement themes, which only proves that golfing is an awesome hobby. For those who wish to surprise the celebrant, why not install turf in the backyard? Having your garden turn into a mini golf course is the best retirement gift an avid golfer can think of! If this is a bit over the top, then consider a mini golf portable mat instead. When it comes to decorations, a green/white combination of colors will do the trick. In any case, edible golf balls are a must!
A garden party
This one is of the freshly retired ladies who can finally dedicate all their time to their flourishing garden. Everything flower-themed is a great idea! From party favors to retirement gifts, a blooming vibe will go well with retirement colors evocative of a new beginning. Something as simple as straw hats can be used for wall art or baldachin. Coupled with some exotic fruits from the travel themes featured above, this can be turned into a thrilling event!
Outdoor retirement party ideas
If the weather is warm, then an outdoor setting can be a much preferable one. Look at different options and see if some fit your idea of a perfect retirement celebration:
A BBQ party
A proven favorite among summer parties and almost everyone’s favorite pastime during the hot months. Make it an all red gingham everything type of event to spice it up and bring the festive mood up a notch. Then, hang some string lights and transform the backyard into a nighttime oasis. For added entertainment, or just to pass the cooking times, a classic egg and spoon race is always fun. And to further prolong the enjoyment of savory flavors, turn on some classy tunes. It goes without saying – include the retiree’s picks as well!
Outdoor winery
Is there a more celebratory sound than one of a cork pop, followed by a gurgle of bubbly wine being poured? Whether it’s a wine tasting party or a wine pairing dinner, you can’t go wrong with choosing a good winery. It’s guaranteed fun for a wine connoisseur retiree, that’s for sure! But, hey, guests will be far from disappointed as well. Before you know it, a good bottle of wine will wake up everyone’s taste buds and liven the mood. As the saying goes – wine improves with age, people improve with wine.
Crafts beer party
Who’s to say only wine tastings are in style, when a visit to a local brewery is just as exciting? They are usually versatile, so it’s your choice whether the event style is cozy or formal. Craft brews are quite trendy nowadays, and a seated beer tasting party is usually much more relaxed than a winery setting. To each their own, of course, as this entirely depends on the retiree’s tastes. Beer lovers will surely be delighted to explore new flavors, one sip at a time!
Cruise ship
This theme is like the fishing one, except this one can be more travel oriented. A sail-away party is a unique retirement celebration, since it’s more one the costly side. Still, with the help of a good cruise director and advance booking, you might score an affordable deal. From panoramic views to wildlife encounters, this is a great opportunity for a family adventure. Heck, maybe the retiree likes it so much they decide to retire on a cruise ship (yes, it’s a thing)!
Rooftop party
Speaking of panoramic views, how about a picturesque areal rooftop view? Though this isn’t exactly a theme, more of a venue type of an idea, it’s still a guaranteed smashing hit. A great accompanying theme is a garden party, with the flowery décor that will mesmerize the guests. For a more sophisticated feel, consider booking a table at a rooftop terrace bar. Whatever option you deem is best, just don’t forget to take pictures and make the most of the spectacular view!
Throw it back themes
When looking for inspiring ideas for a retirement party, throwback themes are worth considering. They are classy and evergreen, and, besides, who doesn’t want to be transported back in time?
The Great Gatsby party
We’ve already mentioned the roaring 20s, but incorporating details from a Fitzgerald’s novel? Well, that makes it a whole separate retirement party theme! Watch one of the movie adaptations to get some inspiration – the one with Leonardo DiCaprio is probably the most picturesque one. You’ll notice a gold and brown combination of colors, lots of feathers and pearls. Oh, and don’t forget to feature the “Prohibition ends here” signs, just for the fun of it!
60s theme
Next up, it’s the swinging decade! Known as the time of the hippies, this theme is immensely interesting to make. You can let your creativity run wild, what with bright colors, smileys and rock and roll you’ll have plenty of inspiration. When it comes to music, it goes without saying – don’t forget the Beatles! And tie die shirts are a great addition to the 60s spirit, not to mention their vibrancy will brighten the atmosphere in itself!
70s theme
Moving on to the disco era, you’ll want to hang a mirror ball from the ceiling for this one! This party is for not for the faint-hearted, as it usually turns into a dance-off. Afro wigs, platform shoes and bend t-shirts are all you need to convey the 70s aesthetics – simple enough. The key, however, is in the music. Dig up some oldies but goodies, such as ‘Play that funky music’ and the crowd will relax in no time.
80s theme
For the pop loving retiree, let the guests bust some moves to Madonna, Prince or the King himself, Michael Jackson. To be true to the party theme, why not play it from CDs the retiree must have saved from that time? Want to go a step further? Why not rent a karaoke machine and have a singing competition? When it comes to décor, old cassettes will do the trick. Alternatively, neon lights can be another interesting addition, aesthetically speaking.
Vintage Hollywood party
Lights, camera, action! Finally, here’s a theme for movie lovers and Hollywood fanatics. Roll out the red carpet for the new retiree star and give them a party to remember. From Hollywood hill banner as a photo prop, to personalized walk of fame golds stars, the ideas are endless. Even better, if you know their favorite movie, incorporate some details into the theme.
Whether we’ve helped you pick a theme or simply gave your ideas to consider, hopefully you find these tips useful. This event marks an end of an era for someone you hold dear, so make it an A-list one. They will forever remember it as the beginning of their golden years, make it worth remembering!
