African Themed Party Ideas for Adults

Are you tired of hosting the same-themed parties over and over again? Why not switch it up and host an African themed party? With its vibrant colors, lively music, and rich culture, an African-themed party is sure to impress your guests and make for a memorable event.

In this article, we will provide you with unique ideas on how to plan an African-themed party for adults that your guests will talk about for years to come.

Decorations

African-themed decorations are essential for setting the mood of your party. Here are some ideas to help you create the perfect ambiance:

  • Use bright colors such as red, green, and yellow, which are symbolic of African culture.
  • Create a focal point by making a banner with your favorite African proverb.
  • Add woven baskets, animal prints, and African masks to your decor.
  • Purchase or create a photo booth with African designs and patterns, where guests can take pictures and make memories.

Food and Drinks

An important part of any party is the food and drinks. African cuisine is flavorful and delicious, here are some traditional recipes to consider:

  • Joll of Rice – a popular West African dish made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and spices.
  • Suya – a Nigerian grilled meat skewer marinated in spices like ginger, garlic, and paprika.
  • Biltong – an African-style beef jerky that is marinated in spices then dried and sliced.
  • Pap – a South African porridge made from ground maize, often served with a tomato and onion relish.
  • Serve drinks such as Mauby, a popular African beverage made from the bark of the Mauby tree.

Music and Entertainment

Music and entertainment are key to keeping guests engaged and having fun. Here are some African inspired ideas:

  • Hire a live African band to play traditional music and drumming.
  • Create an African dance competition where guests can show off their best moves.
  • Have a drum circle where guests can learn and play traditional African rhythms.
  • Hire an African dance group to perform traditional dances such as the Agbadza or Kpanlogo.
African Themed Party Ideas for Adults
African Themed Party Ideas for Adults

Traditional Attire

Traditional African dress adds to the ambiance and creates a sense of cultural immersion. Here are some ideas to get guests dressed up:

  • Set a dress code for the party, such as African-inspired clothing.
  • Have a fabric station where guests can choose from a selection of African fabrics, and have a seamstress available to sew the fabric into traditional styles.
  • Encourage guests to wear African jewelry, such as beaded necklaces, or gold hoop earrings.

Games and Activities

Games and activities that center around African culture will keep guests engaged and having fun. Here are some ideas:

  • Host a Masquerade Ball where guests can decorate their own masks.
  • Have a game of Mancala, a traditional African board game played with colorful stones or beads.
  • Create an African trivia game, testing guest’s knowledge on African culture and history.
  • Have a storytelling event where guests can tell and listen to traditional African folktales.

Party Favors

Thank your guests with a memorable party favor that will remind them of the amazing party you hosted. Here are some ideas:

  • Give out small drums or shakers, so guests can continue to play traditional African rhythms at home.
  • Have personalized bookmarks printed with traditional African proverbs.
  • Give out sachets of African spices such as berbere or sumac.
  • Have African fabrics or hand-painted African pottery available for guests to take home as a souvenir.

Conclusion:

Planning an African themed party for adults can be a fun, exciting, and memorable experience for you and your guests. From decorations, food, and music, to games and party favors, there are endless ways to incorporate African culture into your party. By following the ideas and tips provided in this guide, you are sure to create a fantastic event that your guests will surely love.

FAQ

1. What is African cuisine like?

African cuisine is known for its bold and spicy flavors, as well as its use of fresh ingredients like fruits and vegetables. Common ingredients include rice, beans, yams, plantains, and cassava. Many dishes also incorporate a variety of spices and herbs like ginger, coriander, and cumin.

2. What are some traditional African instruments?

Some traditional African instruments include the djembe, a hand drum; the kora, a harp-like instrument made from a gourd; and the mbira, a thumb piano. Other instruments commonly used in African music include marimbas, xylophones, and various types of drums.

3. What types of dances are popular in African culture?

There are many different types of African dances, each with its own unique style and history. Some popular dances include the gumboot dance from South Africa, the zouk dance from Angola, and the azonto dance from Ghana. Many African dances involve intricate footwork, energetic movements, and vibrant costumes.

4. What are some important African proverbs?

African proverbs are known for their wisdom and insight. Some popular proverbs include “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together” and “A bird that flies off the earth and lands on an anthill is still on the ground.” These proverbs often reflect the importance of community and the value of hard work.

5. What is the significance of African masks in traditional culture?

African masks are an important part of traditional culture and are often used in rituals, ceremonies, and festivals. Masks can represent spirits or ancestors, and are often used in dances or performances. Different regions and cultures have their own unique styles and types of masks, each with its own specific meaning and symbolism.

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