20 Unique Event Themes to Keep Your Guests Engaged

When it comes to throwing a successful event, your theme can truly be the make-or-break factor. If you’ve ever attended a party where the theme was overly tacky or missed the mark, you know exactly how important it is to incorporate unique event themes that will tastefully engage your guests. Something to keep in mind: if you’re going a certain direction, run with it. There’s nothing more disappointing than attending an event that has so much potential, but is just short on details. It’s important to go all in (while staying on budget) — otherwise, your guests will be left wondering what the purpose of your entire event was.

A pro tip straight from a pro herself is to plan an event that’s both memorable and on brand. Elise Armitage, an Event Specialist at Google and blogger behind What The Fab, likes to provide fun moments that double as a branding opportunity. “Whether it’s a silhouette artist who cuts out a custom silhouette of your profile and attaches it to cardstock with your branding on it, or an infinity mirror booth with on-brand colors, creating shareable moments that get people excited is key,” Elise says.

Among some of her favorite corporate event themes to date, one Elise found most inspiring was in light of International Women’s Day. “We host a series of events at Google offices around the world in celebration of International Women’s Day, and it’s so inspiring to run with that theme and to be surrounded by empowered women who are excited to grow and connect.”

Using International Women’s Day as an example, remember to keep upcoming holidays and timely events top of mind when brainstorming potential themes.

To ensure your event is memorable (in the best way possible), see our list below for unique event themes and ideas.

20 unique event themes

1. Festival-inspired

Think food trucks, a DJ, Instagram-worthy photo opps, and a DIY flower crown station. This idea works great all year round, but especially around festival season (from April through Summer).

2. Comic Con

Invite your guests to let their geek flag fly. Rather than limiting your event to Star Wars or Avengers, for example, this theme opens it up to all the universes.

3. The Roaring Twenties

Encourage attendees to dress to the theme (e.g., suits and flapper dresses). Make Gatsby proud with a speakeasy-style bar featuring craft cocktails and expert mixologists. Oh, and the Charleston is an absolute must.

4. Literary

Turn library cards into invitations and dedicate event tables and cocktails to well-known books. Better yet, have every attendee bring a donation book to enter.  

5. Murder Mystery

Require your guests to stay in character as they unfold clues throughout the evening. Not only does this make for an engaging party, but it can also double as a team-building exercise. However, you may want to limit this theme to a more intimate corporate event (of up to 20 people).

Photo by Tyler Mazza

6. Summertime BBQ

You can’t really go wrong with a classic like this one, but its simplicity calls for thinking beyond hot dogs and burgers on the grill. Impress your attendees with backyard games, casual-gourmet fare, and other nostalgic elements. Check out these outdoor event venues. 

7. Tron

If special lighting is within your event budget, here’s where you can really wow the crowd. Keep the theme sleek and futuristic. Tron may be a particularly fitting choice for innovative product launches, where the theme can showcase the product.

8. Old Hollywood Glam

We’re talking a red-carpet, black-tie affair. Take it back to Hollywood’s golden era when the stars lived on champagne and elegance. And if the event includes awards or speeches, get into the true spirit of the theme by drawing inspiration from the Oscars.

9. Studio 54

Bring the iconic nightclub back to life with an evening of disco and bell bottoms. Proper lighting is a must, and don’t forget about the retro decor.