21 Rad Ideas for a Dad Themed Party
Jamie Allen
Contributor
Dads. You know them, you love them, and sometimes you’ve just got to let them take center stage. What better way to do this than to host your very own dad-themed party? Whether the local dads are getting together for a summertime grilling session or you want to do your own take on a Father’s day, here’s everything you need for a successful dad themed party.
In truth, there doesn't have to be a particular reason to host your own dad-themed party. It could be a random summertime weekend or your dad’s birthday, the options are limitless. In fact, you don’t necessarily have to have any dads there.
Perhaps you and your friends are just fans of dad humor, and you want to host your own dad themed party for a special occasion? Hopefully, this article will get your creative juices flowing so you can host the most epic dad party there has ever been!
Here’s everything you’ll need to pull off an epic dad themed party:
Dad Themed Party Vendors
Caterer
What’s a party without food? When you think of classic dad food, more often than not, you think of them behind the barbeque wearing a “kiss the chef” apron. You could impress them with a caterer who specializes in grilled meats and veggies. Or, if you just want someone to man a grill full of hot dogs and hamburgers like a classic dad would, a caterer can do that too.
DJ
It’s time to channel your inner dad-dancing capabilities. With a DJ, you can create your own dad-inspired playlist. This can include your dad’s favorite tracks that remind him of his youth or even songs that mention or have dad in the name.
Some examples include Daddy Cool by Boney M, Dad Vibes by Limp Bizkit, and Gasolina by Daddy Yankee. This will bring your dad-themed party to life as the dance floor is filled with the dad-shuffle and boogie.
Bartender
From a classic Bud Light to a glass of fine wine, a party isn’t complete without some of your favorite beverages. Your dad-themed party can include professional bartenders who can serve up some dad-inspired drinks. These can be stereotypical beverages such as beers or more refined cocktails and whiskeys. Hire a bartender to handle the prep and serving.
Rock Band
Would it even be a dad theme without some classic rock playing in the background. Hire a local rock band to perform your own personal concert at the party. From Bon Jovi to Bruce Springstein, and Aerosmith to Pink Floyd, a rock band will keep the party rolling all night long.
Dad Theme Party Venue
Bar
It’s the obvious choice, but it’s a great idea nonetheless! More often than not, a bar will allow you to decorate to your heart’s content to make the celebration your own. More specific bars that would be perfect for a dad-themed party include Irish pubs and karaoke bars.
Just imagine, the Guinness is following, and your dad channels his inner Bon Jovi. Heaven can wait.
Brewery
Similar to a bar but a level up, especially for lovers of craft beers. A brewery is a fantastic location for a dad-themed party that includes local beers, wines, whiskeys, and so on. Such places often include outdoor or covered beer gardens.
This type of venue could also dictate what type of clothing you wear. Why not go the full hog and dress up in your best German lederhosen or dirndl?
Backyard
Sometimes, your own house makes for the best parties. This is great if you want a casual and more economical dad-themed party. If you have your own outdoor space, you can transform it into the celebration of your dreams without having to consult with anyone! What’s more, the money you save on a venue can go into other areas of your party.
Your backyard can also be big enough to host a variety of entertainment options, including photo booths, live bands, comedians, with the flexibility of the space.
Dad Theme Party Creative Details
Dad Themed Party Outfit
This is something that is already mentioned, but it deserves its own section. There are so many options when it comes to outfit ideas at your dad-themed party. You and your friends can dress up as your everyday dad, summertime BBQ dad, a vacation dad or even TV’s American Dad.
Decorations
Your decorations can mirror literally anything you want! You can have cardboard cut-outs of your favorite television dads, your own dad’s sports team colors, and much more. This is a great way to get creative and to make your dad-themed party stand out from the rest!
You can add extra entertainment and fun with a range of fun dad party props! These can also be used in photos that are sure to be treasured for years to come. Props can include message bubbles with your own dad jokes, printouts of old pictures, sports memorabilia, and more.
Dad Profiles
This is particularly great if you’re planning on dressing up. As your guests arrive, they can be given a dad profile for the party. All of a sudden, your best friend becomes Karl, 46, who loves three-quarter length cargo pants and The Grand Tour’s Jeremy Clarkson. Alternatively, your friends can come with their own characters, who you will learn about as the party gets started.
Dad Party Theme Food
Super Bowl Sunday Vibes
If you’re playing a sports-esc dad-themed party then why not copy foods often associated with the Super Bowl? We’re talking buffalo wings, spicy nachos, Chilli, pigs in blankets, sliders, pizzas, and more. The list here is simply endless.
Sunday Dinner
If you’re going for a Father’s Day-style party, then go for a traditional Sunday dinner with full trimmings. This can include a roast chicken and potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and gravy boats galore! You can also opt for the traditional Sunday sauce. Put together your favorite pasta and meatballs, garlic bread, and a garden salad. This is great for family-orientated dad parties with the whole family.
Barbeque
This has been mentioned a couple of times, but can you blame me? There’s just something so synonymous with dads and a classic grill in the garden. Just picture bright white socks, sandals, jean shorts, and a floral shirt with one button too many undone. As well as offering some delicious Southern cuisine, barbeques are a place to gather, chat, sip on a drink, and simply unwind.
Dad Party Theme Drinks
Beer, Bier, Birra
Some dads do love the odd beer or two when watching the game or unwinding with friends. If you and your friends are looking to recreate this scene or your own dad is in fact a beer connoisseur, your options are endless. Whether it’s European beer or more homegrown delights, you’re always in good hands.
Traditional Cocktails
Particularly great in the summertime, cocktails, and mocktails are always a hit with everyone! With a cocktail menu, you have the chance to get extra creative with the name of your beverages. Cocktails inspired by dads could include Old Fashioneds, Bloody Mary's, Negronis or Spicy Margaritas.
Whiskeys
For those with a refined taste, whiskeys are always a big hit. Whether you’re a bourbon or a single malt type of person, you’ll always find a whiskey that suits your preferences. Some great selections include Jameson, Johnny Walker, Jack Daniel’s, Jim Beam, and Pappy Van Winkle.
Find more theme party ideas here on The Bash.
