80s Retro Arcade Birthday Theme: Totally Cool Ideas!

There’s just something about the 1980s that’s so party plannable! Maybe it’s the wild neon colors, the iconic elements (like video games), the crazy outfits? In any case, for milestone birthdays like the 40th or even a pre-teen birthday bash, a retro-’80s theme is a blast to decorate. So, here’s our guide to getting that “totally awesome” look with pre-designed party products and favor filling ideas! (*this post contains affiliate links)

‘80s Retro Arcade Party Decorations to Buy

Once you’ve settled on a particular motif – say video games – for your 1980’s theme, all you have to do is source ready-made party decorations in that motif. And your party can be ready in a snap!

Hit the “Start” button for this occasion with an awesome Retro Video Game Party Invitation (1) that’s sure to have the guests counting the days. Then, at the party venue, set a totally rad atmosphere the easy way with large themed decor pieces, like this Wall Scene Setter (2) and this Party Door Cover (3). And you’re back in the ‘80s just like that!

For the table settings, select table cloths, plate ware, glasses and napkins in wild neon colors and zany retro prints. Then, position Totally ‘80s Arcade Centerpieces (4) at mid-table to match the video game motif.

Set up a candy buffet with the perfect assortment of 1980’s Time Capsule candies (5), and a retro-inspired birthday cake (6) as the star of the display.

For a party activity, why not prepare an ‘80s-inspired piñata and fill it with a fun mix of party toys that you can buy in bulk (7). Couldn’t be easier!

Sources:

1 – Invitation – by DapperBob, available via Zazzle

2 – Wall scene setter – Sold by Avalanche Brands and Fulfilled by Amazon, available via Amazon

3 – Door cover – Ships from and sold by Amazon.com

4 – Centerpiece – via Windy City Novelties

5 – 80s Retro Candy Capsule– from Dylan’s Candy Bar

6 – 80s Themed Birthday Cake – by Sugar Pie Honey Buns

7 – Bulk toys for party favors – Sold by USA Toyz and Fulfilled by Amazon, available via Amazon

Favor Loot Bags + Filling Ideas for That Retro Look

Planning party favors for an ‘80s arcade theme is just as easy! Go for the most colorful packaging, like plastic loot bags (1) that you can then simply stuff with themed edibles and novelty items. All for fun!

Click on the links to score these favor bags and playful filler finds (in bulk).

1 – Assorted colored plastic bags – Sold by The_CornerShop and Fulfilled by Amazon.

2 – Ring Pops – via Amazon

3 – Amscan Mini Cubes Party Favors Puzzle – Sold by ClassicVariety and Fulfilled by Amazon.

4 – Dr. Stinky’s Scratch n’ Sniff Stickers – Sold by Just For Laughs and Fulfilled by Amazon.

5 – Coasters – via Amazon

6 – 80’s Nintendo Video Game Button Set – Ships from and sold by I Love Buttons, via Amazon.

7 – “Pac-Man and the Ghostly Adventures” Deluxe Party Favors
(set of 12 figures) – Sold by abcfunstuff and Fulfilled by Amazon.