Top Party Trends: What’s Hot and What's Not

Throwing a party should be exciting, not stressful! Whether you're planning a birthday bash, a baby shower, or a dinner party, there's nothing better than creating an event that's bursting with fun and style. And the secret? Staying on top of the hottest party trends. It's the best way to make your celebration unforgettable and keep your guests talking long after the last song ends.

Party trends are constantly changing, and this year is all about bold colours, interactive moments, and creativity that leaves a lasting impression. So forget the old, boring routines—it's time to shake things up and bring fresh ideas to the table. From dazzling themes to one-of-a-kind decorations, the latest trends will help your next event stand out in all the right ways.

In this guide, we're sharing what's in and what's out so you can plan the best party ever. And if you're wondering where to get all your party essentials, Spotlight has you covered! With everything from balloons and decorations to costumes, baking supplies, invitations, and more, we're your one-stop party shop for turning your vision into reality.

So, let's jump into the trends taking over the party scene this year and find the perfect inspiration for your next celebration!

Quick Links

1. Throwback Parties
2. Interactive Activities
3. Themed Dinner Parties
4. DIY Drink Bars
5. Small, Intimate Celebrations
6. Bright, Bold Colours
7. Personalised Gifts
8. Feel-Good Parties Are the New Big Thing
9. At-Home Celebrations
10. DIY Party Decorations

• Party Themes Ideas
• Party Decorations Ideas
• How to Throw the Trendiest Party of the Year

1. Throwback Parties Are Back!

Retro vibes are making a huge comeback, and throwback parties are all the rage right now! Whether it's a '70s disco night-themed party or a nostalgic '90s house party theme, these themes tap into everyone's love for a good dose of nostalgia. Picture a dance floor lit by a spinning disco ball, guests rocking flared pants, and a playlist packed with classics that get everyone on their feet.

Throwback parties let you relive the best of past decades with a modern twist. Think neon decor, retro arcade games, or Polaroid photo booths for capturing fun memories. From funky '80s outfits to vintage-inspired snacks, these parties are all about embracing the charm of the past while keeping the energy fresh and exciting.

The best part? Spotlight has everything you need if you're planning a retro-themed bash. From disco ball decorations and napkins to costumes that nail the look, we've got you covered for the ultimate throwback celebration!

2. Interactive Activities Are the Hottest Party Trend Right Now

If there's one thing guests love, it's being part of the action. That's why interactive activities are stealing the spotlight this year. Parties are no longer just about food and music-they're about creating experiences that everyone can enjoy together. From setting up photo booths with fun props to organising games that get everyone involved, interactive elements are guaranteed to make your party a hit.

Curating the perfect playlist for a dance party is another way to bring people together. Think crowd favourites, nostalgic hits, and songs that get everyone grooving on the dance floor. For food lovers, taco stations where guests can customise their toppings are an absolute win. And don't forget about party games! Classic options like charades or trivia, or even modern twists like escape room-style puzzles, keep everyone entertained.

Interactive activities add a personal and memorable touch to your event. And guess what? You can find everything you need to pull them off at Spotlight. From photo booth party backdrops and dance floor decorations to party tableware for DIY taco stations, we've got what it takes to bring your party ideas to life!

3. Themed Dinner Parties Are All the Rage!

Fancy dinners with a fun twist are taking over the party scene, and it's easy to see why. Themed dinner parties combine style, food, and entertainment to create unforgettable experiences for your guests. Whether it's a glamorous black-tie affair, a tropical Hawaiian feast, or a quirky costume dinner, these events bring people together over a shared love for good food and great company.

What makes themed dinner parties so popular is how versatile they are. You can play around with dress codes, decorations, and even menu items to match your chosen theme. Think elegant tablecloths, creative napkin folds, and stunning centrepieces that tie everything together. Guests love dressing up to match the theme, making the entire evening feel like something truly special.

4. Sip, Mix, Repeat - DIY Drink Bars Are on the Rise!

DIY drink bars are quickly becoming the highlight of parties everywhere! Instead of a traditional staffed bar, guests love the freedom of creating their own customised drinks. It's interactive, fun, and adds a personalised touch to any celebration. Whether it's a mimosa bar for a brunch, a cocktail station for an evening soiree, or a non-alcoholic soft drink refreshment bar for a kids' party, DIY drink bars are versatile and trendy.

Setting up a DIY drink bar is simple and exciting. All you need are a few barware and cocktail accessories, an array of mixers, and fun garnishes like fresh fruit, herbs, or edible flowers. You can even include recipe cards to guide your guests through creating their perfect drink. Bonus points for adding themed glassware or party cups that match the vibe of your event!

Guests love the creative freedom, and it's a great way to keep everyone engaged. From fruity punches to fizzy spritzers, the options are endless.

5. Small, Intimate Celebrations Are Taking Over

Big, lavish parties are taking a back seat as small, intimate celebrations steal the spotlight. People are gravitating towards close-knit gatherings with their loved ones, preferring meaningful connections over extravagant setups.

These smaller parties focus on quality over quantity. Picture beautifully set tables with personalised place cards, cosy seating areas for heartwarming conversations, and thoughtful touches like handwritten notes or customised party favours. These events often feature home-cooked meals or curated menus that reflect the host's personal touch, making the occasion even more memorable.

6. Bright, Bold Colours Are Having a Big Moment!

Gone are the days of muted tones and safe palettes. This year, it's all about vibrant hues that bring energy and excitement to any event. Think neon pinks, electric blues, sunny yellows, and radiant oranges that instantly lift the mood.

From table settings to backdrops, bold colours are everywhere. Balloons in eye-catching shades, tablecloths with striking patterns, and statement-making centrepieces are leading the charge. Guests love how these colours create a festive atmosphere that feels joyful and alive.

Colour blocking is another big trend. Combining contrasting shades like fuchsia and lime green or cobalt blue and orange adds a playful touch to party decor. Even desserts are getting a makeover with bold-coloured frosting, sprinkles, and edible glitter that wow the crowd.

7. Say Bye to Boring Favours - Personalised Gifts Are In!

Generic party favours are on their way out as personalised gifts take centre stage. Guests love receiving something thoughtful and unique that feels tailored just for them. From monogrammed candles to custom keychains, personalised gifts make guests feel appreciated and add a memorable touch to your celebration.

These favours aren't just keepsakes—they're also a great way to match your party theme. For baby showers, personalised onesies or baby bottles are a hit. For weddings, engraved glasses or photo frames make stunning gifts. Even birthday parties can feature fun items like custom T-shirts or tote bags.

8. Forget Late Night Chaos, Feel-Good Parties Are the New Big Thing

Feel-good parties are setting the tone for this year with a fresh, uplifting vibe! These gatherings are all about wellness, mindfulness, and creating spaces where guests can relax and recharge. Forget the late-night chaos—this trend is replacing high-energy dancing with soothing self-care activities and heartfelt connections that truly resonate.

Think yoga sessions in the backyard, spa-inspired setups with DIY face masks, or meditation corners with cosy cushions and calming scents. Guests can participate in guided mindfulness activities or even create their own wellness kits to take home.

Healthy food options also take centre stage at these feel-good parties. Smoothie bowls, fresh salads, and wholesome finger foods replace heavy, processed snacks. Add refreshing drinks like herbal teas or infused waters for a complete wellness-inspired experience.

9. The Rise of At-Home Celebrations

With cosy vibes and endless possibilities, hosting events at home has become the ultimate trend for special occasions, from birthdays to engagement parties. Why? Because these celebrations feel personal, warm, and allow for maximum creativity.

Your living room, backyard, or even your kitchen can become the perfect party venue. You can easily transform your space with themed decorations, fairy lights, and seating that makes guests feel right at home. At-home parties also give you the freedom to add personal touches, like a custom playlist or homemade treats, making the experience truly unique.

Food is another highlight of at-home celebrations. From grazing boards to DIY pizza bars, you can serve up delicious options that cater to everyone's tastes. And let's not forget the convenience—no venue bookings, no travel hassle, just pure enjoyment in the comfort of your own space.

Spotlight makes planning your at-home celebration a breeze. From tableware and decor to fun activities and other party supplies, we've got everything you need to turn your home into the ultimate party destination!

10. DIY Party Decorations Are Making Waves This Year

This year, DIY decorations are stealing the show! Party planners everywhere are ditching ready-made decor for handmade creations that burst with personality and charm.

Think balloon garlands in jaw-dropping colour combos, personalised bunting draped across the room, and themed streamers dancing in the air. From one-of-a-kind centrepieces to quirky table runners, the options are endless and oh-so-fun to create. Plus, making your own decorations isn't just practical—it's the perfect way to amp up the excitement before your guests arrive!

Trendy Party Themes That Are Stealing the Spotlight

Themes are what make a party unforgettable, and this year, some trendy ideas are stealing the spotlight in a big way. Whether you're hosting a kids' birthday, a summer party, or a casual get-together for the New Year, these themes are sure to wow your guests and keep the good vibes rolling:

• Barbiecore Extravaganza: Barbiecore is everywhere! Think pink galore with glittery backdrops, shimmering tableware, and hot pink balloons. Dress up in Barbie-inspired outfits and a life-sized Barbie box for photo ops to complete the look.
• Great Gatsby Glam: Go for roaring '20s elegance with gold and black decor, chandeliers, and glitzy centrepieces. Guests can dress in vintage-style outfits while sipping cocktails and grooving to jazz tunes for that ultimate Gatsby vibe.

• Wonderland Whimsy: Create magic with an Alice in Wonderland theme using mismatched teacups, oversized playing cards, and colourful, whimsical decor. Perfect for tea parties or evening celebrations filled with creative fun.
• Disco Fever: Disco is back! Shimmering disco balls, neon lights, and retro tunes set the vibe. Pair bold colours with dazzling outfits to create a lively disco theme that transforms your space into a groovy dance floor straight out of the '70s.
• Harry Potter Magic: Harry Potter fans will love a themed party. Decorate with house banners, brooms, and a Marauder's map table cover. Serve snacks in goblets and Snitch-themed napkins to complete the experience. It's perfect for Halloween parties, birthdays, or Book Week. Find out more on How to Throw a Harry Potter Party with Spotlight!
• Summer Tropical Bash: Tropical vibes never go out of style! Whether it's a relaxed summer party or a lively luau, vibrant colours, palm leaves, and tiki torches set the scene. Add fruity cocktails, a luau playlist, and tropical flowers for a sunny paradise any time of year.

The best part? Spotlight has everything to bring these themes to life. From decor to costumes and DIY cake decorating tools, you'll find all the essentials to make your party unforgettable!

The Trendiest Party Decorations Right Now

Since DIY party decorations are on the rise, it's the perfect time to get creative and make your celebrations stand out with unique, handmade touches. Here are some DIY party decor ideas everyone is talking about:

• Balloon Garlands: Create stunning balloon garlands with a mix of sizes, shapes, and colours. Combine bold tones with pastel shades for a modern and playful look.
• Pastel Perfection: From tableware to banners, pastel hues are everywhere this year, especially for gender reveals and baby showers. Think soft pinks, mint greens, and sky blues that add a charming and delicate touch.
• Inflatable Decor: Add inflatable props like giant numbers, animals, or themed designs to instantly elevate your decor. These oversized items are fun, eye-catching, and perfect for photo ops.
• Streamers with a Twist: Layer streamers in complementary colours to design unique backdrops, ceilings, or even photo booths. Mix metallics with classic shades for a festive vibe.
• Floral installations: From simple flower arrangements to elaborate floral backdrops, flowers always add a touch of elegance and beauty to any party. You can use fresh flowers, dried flowers, or even silk flowers to create stunning displays.
• DIY photo backdrops: Create a fun and festive photo backdrop using fabric, streamers, balloons, or even just a plain sheet with some colourful paint splatters.

How to Throw the Trendiest Party of the Year

Throwing a trendy party takes more than just following the latest fads—it's about crafting an event that feels fresh, fun, and totally you. Here are some tips to help you plan the ultimate bash while avoiding common pitfalls:

1. Start with Social Media Inspiration: TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest are buzzing with party ideas. From viral decor trends to creative themes, they're goldmines for fresh ideas. Just remember not to overdo it. Keep your vision clear and achievable.
2. Make It All About the Guests: Unforgettable experiences are the heart of trendy parties. Think DIY drink bars, photo booths, and engaging games. When your guests are having fun, your party will shine.
3. Stay True to Your Style: Not every trend fits every vibe. Choose what resonates with you and your guests to make your next party feel personal, not just trendy.
4. Embrace the unexpected: Don't be afraid to try something new and unexpected. This could be anything from a unique theme to an unusual activity.
5. Refresh Overdone Trends: Balloon garlands and balloon bouquets are popular for a reason, but they can feel repetitive. Add your own twist to keep them exciting and unique.
6. Plan Like a Pro: Good party planning is key to pulling off a successful event. Create a checklist, budget, and timeline to keep things on track. If it's a big event, consider enlisting party planners or friends to lend a hand.
7. Balance Trendy with Practical: While trends are fun, don't overlook practicality. Make sure your venue, decorations, and food choices work for your space and guest list.
8. Most importantly, have fun! The most important thing is to relax and enjoy yourself. After all, it's your party!

Remember, a trendy party isn't about following every fad-it's about creating a fun and memorable atmosphere. With Spotlight's wide range of party supplies, from themed decor to creative DIY kits, you'll have everything you need to throw an unforgettable celebration that leaves your guests in awe!

Get Your Party Sorted with Spotlight's Bargains Galore on Party Essentials

Ready to throw the trendiest party of the year? Spotlight has everything you need to bring your party vision to life.

From colourful balloons and dazzling decorations to festive costumes and delicious treats, we've got bargains galore on all your party needs, including:

• Baking & Chocolate-Making Supplies: Unleash your inner baker with our wide range of baking supplies, including cake mixes, icing and piping tools, sprinkles, and chocolate-making essentials.
• Balloons: Create stunning balloon arches, garlands, and bouquets with our vibrant selection of foil balloons, latex balloons, and confetti balloons in every shape and size.
• Costumes & Accessories: Transform yourself and your guests with our incredible range of adult costumes, kids costumes, and pet costumes. Don't forget the costume accessories — we've got wigs, masks, face paints, makeup and body paints, and more!
• Tableware & Serving Ware: Set the perfect party table with our stylish tableware and serving ware, including plates, cups, napkins, cutlery, and serving platters.
• Decorations: Find everything you need to decorate your party space, including streamers, confetti, banners, and more.
• Cards & Gift Wrap: We have cards and gift wraps for any occasion, from birthday parties to baby showers.
• Guest Books & Keepsakes: Create lasting memories with our range of guest books and keepsakes.
• Invitations: Set the tone for your party with our stylish and unique invitations.
• Party Entertainment: Keep your guests entertained with our selection of party games, piñatas, and other fun activities.
• Party Hats: Add a touch of festive fun with our colourful party hats.
• Confectionery: Treat your guests to delicious sweets and treats from our extensive confectionery selection.

Shop in-store at your nearest Spotlight store, or take advantage of our convenient Click and Collect Service. Simply browse our party supplies online and pick up your order at your chosen store. We also deliver across Australia, so you can get your party started no matter where you are.

Make party planning even better with Spotlight's VIP Club! Enjoy discounts on party supplies, birthday discounts, and a welcome voucher when you sign up. It's free and packed with perks, so join today and start saving.

With Spotlight's huge range, you can find everything you need to throw a truly unforgettable party. So, shop now and make your party the hottest event of the year!