Hosting a New Year’s party? Have you figured out what to do or are you still struggling for a theme? Here are some ideas and tips for your party.

Period Party

Decide on a decade or a particular period in history. You can choose the 60s, the 20s, the 18th Century or even futuristic. If you decide to go with decades from the past, be sure to do lots of research to have the right decorations, food and refreshments. Make it a costume party, too, so people do get involved. And if they don’t dress up, tell them they have to sing or take off their clothes that don’t match the theme.

Color Party

Decide on a color theme, and use it for your entire party. Decorate the place using only the colors. Serve food and drinks that use only these colors. Invitations and party favors also should use the colors selected. Have the guests come wearing only these colors. It is best to select only two colors to make it stand out more.

Mardi Gras

The ultimate party experience, your guests will be transported to another world. Provide masks, beads and spicy Cajun cuisine. Use Mardi Gras to decorate invitations and include their masks when sending them. Hang feather boas and beads all over the place. Add swirls and garlands on the ceiling. Have costume contests to encourage everyone to wear a costume.

Fiesta

Add chili pepper lights and fiesta garlands everywhere in the place as decorations. Add inflatable cactus plants and tropical plants in corners all over. Serve Mexican finger food and drinks. Play only Mexican fiesta music. Give out maracas or noisemakers for party favors. Don’t forget to add a pinata in the middle of the room.

There’s still a lot of ideas out there. But no matter what you decide, be sure to do your research to make it very authentic.