A fun activity to put on for senior citizens is a prom night. This allows everyone an opportunity to dress up, gives them a chance to dance, and everyone gets to feel special. The prom planning and the overall event is not that much different than a prom for teenagers. The overall goal is the same. To organize an event that is fun, engaging, and that gets everyone involved. There are some things that need to be different however to make sure that everyone has a good time.
- Theme
When choosing senior citizen prom themes, try to pick something that will resonate with most of the audience. Some ideas may be Hollywood movies. In decorating for this event get some blown up images of movie stars from the 30s, 40s, 50s, and 60s. Order a few life size cut outs of actors from these eras. Hang movie posters around the banquet hall. Show an old movie on the wall or a screen. Mardi Gras themes are also timeless and can be enjoyed by all who attend the event. These themes are easy to decorate for and the party favors are readily available. If choosing a masquerade ball theme, be sure to give the guests feathered masks that they can enjoy with their evening wear, pass the appetizers out on silver trays. Do not forget to put up a mirrored ball to add some excitement and atmosphere to the event.
- Music
Be sure to play some old favorites at a senior citizen prom event. Hire a DJ that has a versatile portfolio that can play a variety of music from different eras. It may even be possible to hire a live band, which would provide a more festive atmosphere. Encourage the guests to request the music they would like to be played. This can be done in advance and at the event.
- Attendance
Be sure to make the invitation open to all ages. Allow the seniors to invite their families. Open the event up to a local youth group. By giving the youth an opportunity to earn community service credits it will repay them for their time and energy. The majority of seniors will welcome an opportunity to dance with a handsome young man or a beautiful young lady. By keeping the event open to all ages, it allows for more interaction and keeps the event fun for everyone involved.
- Snacks
Offering the traditional cookies and punch is still a must. A fin twist however would be to have a station that has some candies from different eras as well. Candies like, bubblegun cigarettes, saltwater taffy, bazooka gum, boston baked beans, bit o honeys, bottle caps, and many others like this can be served for a fun change of pace. Cracker Barrel usually has these items in stock. There are other online retailers that carry these goods as well.
- Activities
To give the event a little more flavor, it is always a good idea to include some activities other than dancing at these senior parties. Some of the patrons may be physically unable to dance. In advance of the event get some pictures of the seniors from when they were younger. Make up a yearbook with their names in with the pictures. Give the yearbooks out at the event and have them do a signature exchange. Seeing the pictures should start up some interesting conversations about their youth, maybe their senior prom, etc. Have a trivia contest. Or simply set up a photo album station where seniors can look through the albums and possibly relate some stories with one another.
The most important thing to remember with your senior citizen prom ideas, is to have fun with the event. Another fun way to get some funds for the event is to seek sponsorship. There are some online retailers that may be willing to donate some goods or services to the event for an opportunity to get their name out there. Medical Suppliers, Formal Wear shops, or even your local car dealers may take the opportunity to serve the community, and raise awareness for their brand. It doesn’t hurt to ask. Be creative and have fun with the preparation!