Decorating tips, themes, activity ideas, music, and party ideas for a fun, cool and safe home, high school, or homeschool St. Valentine's Day party or dance
Following are ideas for a super fun and successful heart-filled event.
Start with a Valentine's Day Theme for the Dance or Party
Party Theme possibilities include:
A theme centered around a song: Holiday ideas include "Happy Together" - 1967, performed by The Turtles, "Endless Love" - 1981, performed by Diana Ross & Lionel Richie , "(Be My) Teddy Bear" - performed by Elvis Presley, or "My Funny Valentine," performed by many different performers, including Frank Sinatra. Brainstorm other ideas based around the song name.
Holiday colors may be a theme: red and pink, red and white, or pink and purple.
A silly party theme could be based on everyone wearing heart-covered clothing, scarves, and jewelry.
Decorating Tips and Ideas for a Valentines Dance or Party
Start brainstorming with the theme. If "Teddy Bear" is the chosen theme, for instance, then the home, ballroom or dance hall might be filled with all sorts of adorable teddy bears. Most families will have several to loan.
Lots and lots of red paper hearts may be put on walls, tables, or just about anywhere.
Red, pink, and white balloons covering the floor are pretty and fun to kick and toss.
Formal (maybe a bit more "romantic") or fun whimsical decorations may be used. Sticking to one or the other will pull the room together and set the tone of the event.
Strings of festive lights are available for every holiday. Heart lights are fun for Valentine’s Day. Check Target or other department and online stores for party goods décor ideas such as these.
Activities for Teen Valentine Dances and Parties
Try not to overbook the event with activities. Often, socializing, snacking, and dancing are plenty.
A card making table is a fun idea. Provide paper, scissors, glue, glitter, markers and stickers.
For a large dance, hired DJs often come up with activities related to the songs they play. Ask the disc jockey in advance, as this can be a big part of the fun for teens.
The teens involved in planning will have great ideas. Listen to their ideas or have them take over a large part of the activity and music plans.
Party and Dance Set-Up Ideas
Hire professional photographers, or decorate a rose-covered garden arch so teens can take their own pictures.
Set up plenty of seating and tables for resting and conversation.
A refreshment area with heart-shaped cookies or other Valentine theme treats, punch, and ice water are essential for hungry and thirsty teenagers. See Fast & Easy Three-Ingredient Cookies.
Pro DJs will know popular songs. Make sure to request what is appropriate for the guests. Some dances work with rap, some with oldies, and some with soft rock. Talk to the DJ about which mix will work best.
In lieu of a professional, a student DJ may be found among the teens or at a local college. Post ads in the student paper or on the Music Department bulletin boards.
A group of teens may enjoy getting together ahead of time and set up music on an MP3 player. Hooked to a sound system, the music will be on auto-pilot.
For some events, a live band may be appropriate.
Remember Safety for Teenagers
Use permission slips and/or a list with parent phone numbers in case of emergency.
Have plenty of chaperones to watch entrances, exits, restrooms, etc.
Above all, a Valentine celebration is a time for teenagers to have good, clean fun. With a little planning and a few special touches, a teen February 14th event will be magical and memorable.
The copyright of the article Teen Valentine Dance & Party Ideas in Holiday Entertaining is owned by Janienne Jennrich. Permission to republish Teen Valentine Dance & Party Ideas in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.