Everything You Need For a 2000s Themed Party
Lauren Miolene
Editor
The saying goes, “party like it’s 1999,” but those people have clearly never been to a 2000s themed party! From Blockbuster Video and slurpees, to iconic fashion trends and flip phones, what’s not to love about the new millennium? Travel back in time with this 2000s party theme that guarantees an unforgettable experience for everyone.
Y2K makes the perfect throwback theme for a 30th birthday party, bachelorette party, or just a fun themed celebration with your peeps. With the proper outfits, throwback music from your favorite boy bands, and vibrant décor to match, the creative freedom for this early 2000s theme party is endless, and is sure to bring all of the nostalgic vibes.
If you're wondering how to throw a 2000s themed party, you've come to the right place! From throwback activities and entertainment, to 2000s themed drinks and food, we've put together the ultimate list of ideas that will transport you and guests back in time.
1. Airbrush Artist
Airbrushed clothing was a staple in any early 2000s wardrobe, that's why it makes the perfect customized party favor for a 2000s themed event. Hire an airbrush painter and guests can have their name designed on t-shirts, hats, or even sweatshirts to represent the new millennium even after the party is over.
2. Denim on Denim Outfits
If you’re wondering what do you wear to a 2000s themed party, take inspiration from Brittney Spears and Justin Timberlake with their iconic denim outfits. Put on your favorite pair of jeans or skirt with a jacket that will totally take everyone back to the 2001 American Music Awards.
3. Appletinis
These bright green cocktails are the ultimate throwback to the era, when sipping on this sweet and tangy drink made you feel like the star of your own rom-com! Serve them in chic martini glasses with a slice of fresh apple or a fun candy garnish for that extra flair. You can't have an early 2000s theme party without appletinis.
4. Karaoke DJ
Sing the top hits of the 2000s including “Bye, Bye, Bye,” “The Real Slim Shady,” and “Who Let the Dogs Out” by booking a karaoke DJ for your 2000s themed party. They will provide all of the equipment and songs you’ll need to live out your 2000s popstar fantasy.
5. Inflatable Furniture and Bean Bag Chairs
If you’re looking for more 2000s themed party creative details, nothing says Y2K like inflatable furniture and bean bag chairs! Your guests will be able to lounge and mingle while sitting on squishy seating and chat about their Myspace Top 8 and belt out Britney’s greatest hits.
6. Hip Hop Dancers
Hip hop was one of the top music styles of the early 2000s, and dancers will literally help bring the party to life. Get on the dance floor and bust a move with professional dancers that will take this decade's party to the next level.
7. Disco Balls
Whether you hang them from the ceiling, scatter mini ones on tables, or even use them as cups for your cocktails, disco balls add that iconic early 2000s shine. Pair them with some neon lights, throw on a pop playlist, and you’ll have your guests feeling like they’re on a VIP list at the hottest club of 2002.
8. R&B Singer or Rapper
If your favorite early 2000s artists were Rihanna, Usher, or Beyoncé, you’ll want to book an R&B singer that will sound just like these talented musicians, the vibes will not disappoint! Don’t forget to have them perform hits from key artists like Drake, Nelly, or French Montana.
9. Lunchables
There’s a reason why people love charcuterie boards right now, they’re an elevated twist on the classic Lunchable. For your 2000s themed party, include the classics like meat and cheese, but don't forget the other options like mini pizzas and nachos as other appetizers for your spread.
10. Lava Lamps
These groovy lights are the ultimate throwback accessory, bringing that nostalgic vibe to your 2000s party decor. Scatter them around your space in vibrant colors to create an otherworldly ambiance that’ll have everyone feeling like they’ve stepped into a music video from the era.
11. Coffee Cart
Frappuccinos at Starbucks were all the rage in the 2000s, so fuel the coffee shop vibes with all your favorite caffeinated drinks. Sip on classic brews, lattes, and cappuccinos that will keep everyone energized during the 2000s themed party.
12. Capri Sun
Something about planning a 2000s theme party screams cracking open an ice-cold Capri Sun. Stack the pouches in a cooler, let guests pick their favorite flavors, and watch as everyone transforms into their younger selves—grape-stained smiles and all. Add a little twist with spiked versions for the grown-ups, because, hey, we’ve leveled up since then!
13. Dance Dance Revolution
Get ready to break out your moves because no 2000s themed party is complete without a round of Dance Dance Revolution! Channel your inner arcade champion, grab a friend, and step onto that iconic dance mat to keep up with the arrows—bonus points if you’re rocking low-rise jeans and a chunky belt! With every “Perfect!” or “Miss!” lighting up the screen, it’s like stepping right back into the mall arcade.
14. Hostess Sweets
Any pre-packaged hostess treat was the go-to dessert in the early 2000s. Between Twinkies, Ding Dongs, and powdered Donettes, you really can’t go wrong. Luckily, you can still find these in most grocery stores that will add the finishing touches to your celebration.
15. Balloon Decorator
For your 2000s party decor, think oversized silver balloons spelling out “Y2K,” neon-colored arches, and glitter-filled balloon clusters to channel those early millenium glam feels. Booking a balloon decorator for this party will turn your space into a total flashback zone—perfect for all those polaroid-worthy moments.
16. Pizza Rolls
Pizza rolls were one of the biggest snack crazes in the early 2000s. Rather than serving the ones from the box (which you totally can), try making your own! Customize the filling with different types of sauces, cheese, and other favorite pizza toppings for a delicious finger food option.
17. Kool-Aid
Keep the beverage options simple for your 2000s party by serving Kool Aid. Mix the colorful powder with sugar and water to make this classic party drink. Select a variety of flavors and colors, and even spike it with your choice of alcohol for an adult 2000s themed event. To take your Kool-Aid drink to the next level, visit Koolaid.com for more recipes and ideas.
18. Photo Booth
Ready to strike a pose, Y2K style? A photo booth at your 2000s themed party is the way to capture everyone’s best Paris Hilton pout, Avril Lavigne smirk, or classic boy band pose. From crimped hair to low-rise jeans, every iconic look deserves its moment—so let’s bring back those throwback vibes and snap some Polaroid-worthy memories!
19. Cupcakes
Remember the cupcake trend that started years ago and (thankfully) never ended? The 2000s brought us popular cupcake shops including Sprinkles and Crumbs that are known for their delicious and gourmet desserts. Serve this crowd favorite treat that will never go out of style at your party. For a 2000s themed birthday party, cupcakes are key.
20. Friendship Bracelets
Grab some beads, break out the letter charms, and get ready to make friendship bracelets like it’s 2003! Nothing says early 2000s quite like stringing together colorful beads to spell out your BFF’s initials—or a nostalgic “LOL” or “BFFL.” Set up a DIY station at your party and let guests dive into their inner tween with all the glitter, smiley faces, and heart charms they can handle.
21. Sliders
People in the 2000s loved the convenience of sliders because they are easy to make, serve, and eat for any occasion. To add to your 2000s themed food ideas, serve mini options like burgers, chicken sandwiches, and pulled pork for a simple hand held party snack.
22. Caricaturist
What’s more Y2K fabulous than a caricaturist capturing everyone’s low-rise jeans, butterfly clips, and frosted lip gloss? Having a caricature artist at your 2000s themed party brings all the nostalgia of mall photo booths but with an artsy twist! Plus, imagine the laughs when someone’s tiny flip phone and chunky highlights get blown up in a sketch—hello, iconic party souvenir!
23. Jell-O Shots
Jell-O shots make a fun party treat no matter what the occasion is, especially when there’s a 2000s theme! Pair your favorite Jell-O flavor with your choice of alcohol to whip up this party classic.
24. 2000s Movie Night
Picture this: cozy blankets, bean bags, and your whole crew under the stars, watching all the iconic flicks and shows that made the early 2000s legendary. From Mean Girls to Princess Diaries, and Sex and the City, your favorite movies will feel larger than life with an outdoor movie screen rental—and don’t forget the popcorn and candy for that full Y2K experience!
25. Fun Dip Shots
An adult twist on the candy your parents probably didn’t let you have: Fun Dip Shots. Shake up vodka, Sprite, and Fun Dip powder with ice, and pour into shot glasses rimmed with the colorful sugar. Garish with the Lik-a-Stix and cue the nostalgia. Get the full recipe from Delish for this 2000s themed drink.
26. 2000s Themed Party Outfits
It’s time to dig out the Juicy Couture tracksuit that has been sitting in your closet for years because it’s only fitting to go all out for the 2000s themed party outfits. There is nothing more iconic than early 2000s fashion, so tell guests to have fun with it. Recreate Ashley Tisdale's layered looks or wear anything blinged out and metallic as a nod to Y2K.
27. Guitar Hero
We all know you have those electronic guitars and drums in storage somewhere, so it’s time to bring the band back together for a fun 2000s themed party activity. Set this video game up and watch as guests try their best to hit the notes and rock the stage.
28. Disposable Cameras
No iPhone selfies allowed at this party! For an early 2000s theme party favor, pick up disposable cameras for guests to capture the event and be surprised when they get the pictures developed.
29. Mountain Dew
Although Mountain Dew has been around forever, it was still one of the most popular sodas in the early 2000s. Pick up flavors including Code Red, Voltage, and Live Wire to serve or incorporate the drink in a fun cocktail.
30. Video Games
Set up an area to play iconic throwback video games for your 2000s theme party. From Playstation and Wii, to Nintendo and GameCube, guests will love recreating memories with their favorite games like Mario Kart, Just Dance, and Donkey Kong.
31. Throwback Candy
Think Baby Bottle Pops, Laffy Taffy, and Hubba Bubba for this 2000s theme candy bar. Set up a station with all of your favorite throwback sweet treats for the perfect addition to your party spread.
32. CD Wall
Can you believe there was a time without Spotify, Apple Music, and other music streaming services? Reminisce the days of sitting in front of the computer waiting for your favorite songs to download on your CD by using them as decoration. Add to your 2000s party decor by stringing together the discs or secure them to the wall to create unique lighting and a fun photo backdrop.
33. Mood Rings
What better way to reflect the emotions of the night than with a piece of jewelry that’s as unpredictable as your favorite boy band breakup? Mood rings will be a fun party favor that will act as unique conversation starters that stick to the 2000s theme. These are also the perfect accessories to complete people’s 2000s themed party outfits.
34. 2000s Trivia
Put your knowledge to the test with 2000s trivia. From pop culture, fashion trends, and music, have fun competing with guests to determine who remembers the most about this time period.
35. Cosmic Brownies
These rainbow treats are the ultimate 2000s themed party food. Whip up a batch of this chocolate dessert, but you can never go wrong with the ones from the box for the ultimate nostalgia. If this is a 2000s themed birthday party, stack these brownies together for a fun and unique birthday cake!.
Find more party theme ideas here on The Bash.
