Every culture has a coming-of-age celebration of their own, but sometimes you’ve got to shake up your traditions a little bit with a fun theme for the party. Whether you’re celebrating a bat mitzvah, a quinceanera, a debut, or a super Sweet 16, there’s always a fun twist that you can add to make your soon-to-be adult child’s celebration the Best. Party. Ever. Dramatic gifts are optional!
Bar/Bat Mitzvah (13-14 years): Black and White Ball
The temptation is strong to go all-out for a bar or bat mitzvah, but to keep things elegant without the extravagance, why not start with the simplest modern party theme ever? Have everyone dress up in their best black-tie formal wear, and add monochromatic place settings to go with the food. With a simple but striking theme like this, you can carry on with the rest of the celebration–and still have a Pinterest-worthy party to remember!
Quinceanera (15 years): Wild West Celebration
Put on your cowboy boots and dance! The Western-themed quince is a relaxed but contemporary take on the traditional Latino coming-of-age ceremony. Male entourage members (chambelanes) can dress up in blue jeans and hats, while the females (damas) can choose to don their best corseted gowns. Put up bandanna-print banners for added flair and have a photo booth ready to capture your guests in full Western gear.
Sweet 16 for Girls: Candy-Colored Fantasy
Hear us out: we’re talking about the 16th birthday here, and it’s the last hurrah for your daughter’s childhood before she comes of age. Celebrate it with a contemporary candy-themed Sweet 16 party! Start with a candy-inspired color scheme–from the dress code and invites to balloons and decor–and set up bowls of bite-sized sweets as centerpieces for each table. You can also take it a little further with a candy cart for customized goody bags.
Sweet 16 for Boys: Ultimate Jock Jam
This athletic theme is the modern coming-of-age version of the kiddie sports party. Have all guests dress up in jerseys and uniforms, and decorate the venue with sports memorabilia from his favorite team. Serve sports-inspired drinks in a punch bowl along with finger food like hot wings and sliders. Don’t forget the ESPN-worthy highlight montage of your son’s best moments, too!
Filipino Debut (18 Years): Celebrity Glam Banquet
For this glamorous and modern coming-of-age party theme, decorate with sparkling lights and shades of gold. Play sweet acoustic music for the 18-member cotillon/entourage program, then switch it up with a tear-jerking favorite for the father-daughter dance. You can also upgrade the rice-meal buffet with luxurious food such as roast beef and salmon, and serve sparkling “mocktails” in toast-worthy champagne flutes.
Ultimately, the decision to go with a theme for the traditional coming-of-age party is up to you and your birthday celebrant. Talk to your family to explore your options within your budget, and if you see a theme that you like–regardless of which tradition you follow–go for it!
Got a coming-of-age party to plan? Let The Party Palooza be your guide! Our dedicated venue at the York Galleria is the perfect place for your next amazing party. We can help you customize your party plans at any budget! Contact us at (717) 751-1720 for more information.
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