This 80’s Prom Murder Mystery Party was my favorite party I’ve ever thrown! From the decorations and the theme to the characters and the costumes (and everything in between), it was the most fun night and makes me so excited to throw another next October!
This was the second murder mystery party we have thrown and I cannot recommend them enough! They’re so different and a great way to interact with guests from different walks of life and overall just change things up! And of course, it’s extra fun in October!
Video Walkthroughs
Watch the party come to life in video form:
80’s Prom Murder Mystery Party
How to throw a Murder Mystery Party:
- Choose a murder mystery party kit/theme.
- Send out themed invites 1-2 months in advance (I recommend using evite) so that there is enough time for people to RSVP. Each person will be assigned a specific character to act and dress as, so the more time the better!
- On the invites, be sure to include that the guests should RSVP as soon as they can and that they should only RSVP yes if they can absolutely come since a no show/last minute cancelation could mess up the game!
- Also include information about the theme so they can start thinking about ideas, a note that they will be expected to dress up/play a character, details on if food/drink will be served and as always, time and place.
- While you’re waiting on RSVPs, this is the perfect time to plan out your decor as well as food/drink, music, etc.
- Once the RSVPs are in, purchase your murder mystery kit based on how many guests you have, then assign each guest to a character.
- Send the character information to each guest and be available to help with any questions on outfits, character details or how to play the game.
- The week of the party will be huge for preparations!
- Print out any necessary materials that will be used during the game (for example, objectives for each character, hosting timelines, introductions, clues, the solution, etc.).
- Organize all printed character information into folders (your kit should give you all the instructions you need on this!) as well as any play money or accessories based on your theme.
- Decorate your space.
- Gather serveware, prep/purchase any food/drink.
- Create or find a playlist to match the theme.
- Ensure you have everything needed for your costume.
- On the day of the party, ensure you have everything organized and that you have reviewed the timeline ahead of time so that you can really lean into your character and enjoy the party!
80’s Prom Details
Here is everything I used/did to throw my own 80’s Prom Murder Mystery Birthday Party!
The Kit
Possibly one of the most important elements is the company/kit you decide to use. I have used kits from Night of Mystery for the past two Octobers now and have found them to be fun and super easy to follow!
Click here for the 80’s Prom Murder Mystery Party kit I used for this party!
The Decorations
In my opinion, transforming my space to feel like prom played a huge role in people getting into the party! It really set the scene and allowed for everyone to feel transported and play their character even better.
Materials for Characters
I highly recommend having these items gathered and on hand/organized for the party!
- Mini pencils for casting votes/solving the mystery (super helpful to have!)
- Bulletin board turned “yearbook” for the suspect board (optional but was loved by my guests!)
- Polariod camera and film for the “yearbook” (optional but was loved by my guests!)
- Sticky notes to start “rumors” on the bathroom mirror (optional but was loved by my guests!)
- A designated/decorated area for awkward prom photos!
- Colorful envelopes (can use any envelope but it’s fun to have them on theme!)
- Prom King and Queen crowns and sashes (optional)
- Prom Court sashes (optional)
- Play money (likely needed based on your kit!)
- Trophies (optional but so fun to hand out to the winners!)
Food & Drink
Because I wanted to really focus on the decorations and overall experience for my guests, we kept the food and drink super simple. You can go as themed as you want here, but here is what we served:
- Batched blackberry mojitos
- Blender espresso martinis (click here for my recipe!)
- Sherbert punch
- Veggie tray
- Chips & various dips
- Shake Shake burgers & fries (is a good option as you can also get gluten free and vegetarian options)
- Pizza
- Assorted drinks for cocktails and mocktails
- Vanilla sprinkle birthday cake (click here for my recipe!)
Concluding Thoughts
This truly was one of the most fun parties I’ve ever thrown! I could tell how much fun my guests were having and it was a great night. When it all comes down to it, it really isn’t about the decorations but truly those that attend. I’m so lucky to have such amazing family and friends that made the night all that it was!
FOLLOW ALONG!
Be sure to follow me on Instagram and TikTok to see all of the behind the scenes of recipe creation as well as how to videos to watch them come to life! You can also head over to my Pinterest to save all of my recipes in one spot that you plan whip up in the future.
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