Unique Halloween Party Theme Ideas

Halloween is the one time of year when almost anything goes. From the elegant and sophisticated, to the silly and mundane, this holiday is all about throwing off the usual restraints, and letting your creative genius flow. Here you will find some great ideas to get you started on a themed Halloween party that everyone is sure to remember for years to come.

A Formal Masquarade Ball

Bored with same old Halloween dress up parties? Looking for an idea that departs from the gory, and brings a touch of class to the evening? If you have the space, or if can afford to rent it, this theme gives guests the opportunity to enjoy "dressing up for Halloween", without descending into the macabe, or gruesome.

* Invite guests to get into the spirit of things by encouraging them to come in period clothing.

* Send invitations early, so everyone has time to prepare.

* Select table and room decorations that reflect the period, rather than choosing standard Halloween decorations.

* Serve period appropriate foods, such as turkey legs, roast mutten, a selection of cheeses, wines, breads, and fresh fruit.

A Night at the Circus

A fun party idea that both adults and children can really enjoy. This theme also caters to all of those who secretly always wanted to run away and join the circus...

* Invite guests to come as their favorite circus character. (Ringmaster, clown, lion tamer, etc...)

* Be sure to give your guests enough time to find and prepare costumes, when sending invitations.

* If possible have the party out of doors in a large tent.

* Serve circus foods such as hot dogs, french fries, popcorn, carmel apples, and (of couse) cotton candy.

* Provide entertainment such as a magic show, juggling act, clown skit, etc... Invite guests to get in on the "act" as well.

A Nightmare on... (your street)

Having a truly scary party is all about setting the mood, and keeping it going throughout the evening. This party will keep your guests on the edge of their seats, as you encourage them to tap into their own hidden fears...

* Invite guests to dress in their scariest costumes. (Princesses, clowns and superhero's will be beheaded at the door!)

* Play a creepy sounds Halloween tape at the entrance.

* Decorations should be reminiscent of a "haunted house", spider webs, severed heads, dead bodies drenched in blood... (please use dummies!) Also be sure to keep the lights very dim.

* Be sure to let your guests know that your house is REALLY haunted. Tell them about the ghost who walks up and down the halls at 2:00 am. Also, you will want to make sure that they are aware of the brutal murders that took place in your house, back in the 1950's.

* Great conversation starters for this party include "Have you ever seen a ghost?" "What's the scariest thing that ever happened to you?" "Do you believe in evil?" or "Did you know that vampires really exist?" Use your imagination. The trick is to get guests thinking, and talking about the things that really scare them.

* Serve Bloody Mary's and zombies, deviled eggs and marinated artichoke hearts, eye of round roast and hearts of palm salad, devil's food cake and juicy blood oranges.