So you're looking to throw a Wild West party, but you're stuck in a standoff like it's high noon. You'd best be prepared to draw...some "Wanted" posters for your party décor. Alright, maybe that wasn't our best metaphor, but don't worry, we're here to help with all your party planning. We're experts on get-togethers, and we've read and watched our share of Westerns, too. We'll help you with our top 10 Western party ideas. Let's saddle up!
1. Rustic Western Décor
Here are some Old West decor and prop ideas.
Set the stage with rustic decorations and vintage signage that evoke the charm of an old frontier town. Incorporate hay bales, wooden barrels, and weathered wagon wheels to create an authentic Western atmosphere. For a cost-conscious party planner, use colored paper instead—for example, by turning your door into batwing saloon doors.
2. Wild West Music
Create a playlist featuring classic folk, country, and western songs to set the mood. Let the cowboy ballads transport your guests to dusty trails and weathered false-front buildings. You could even hire a professional musician or get a guitar-strumming friend to provide the entertainment.
3. Cowboy Food
Barbecue is a great option, and don't forget the sides.
Fire up the grill for a hearty cowboy cookout of smoky BBQ and rustic sides. Dishes like smoked brisket, beans, and cornbread will sell the Wild West atmosphere. If your guests include children, make sure to include some cake and lemonade.
4. Outdoor Games
Organize rodeo-themed games like lasso throwing to engage your guests. You can set up competitive challenges or just let the partygoers have fun, depending on the event. Another outdoor option is a game of horseshoes—there are inexpensive plastic versions of this one, too!
5. Indoor Games
Roulette was played in the Old West, but did you know that the most popular game was Faro?
If you're unable to play games outside, there are plenty of indoor Wild West games you could play instead. You could play traditional gambling games like Poker or Faro—the most popular game in the Old West. Alternatively, we found plenty of cowboy trivia games online. Or if the homeowner(s) or venue owner(s) allow it, bean bags or those plastic horseshoes mentioned earlier are much less likely to cause damage.
6. Gold Rush Treasure Hunt
Plan a treasure hunt that mimics the thrill of a gold rush. Hide "gold nuggets" and clues around your venue to encourage exploration and interaction. After the event is over, guests can keep the "gold" as a memento or trade them in for gift bags.
7. Wanted Poster Crafts
Make your own Old West-style "Wanted" posters.
Set up a craft table where guests can design their own "Wanted" posters. Provide paper, markers, and fun props so everyone can create a personalized memento of the day. Alternatively, guests can cut a large oval in the poster for their face, which makes for some fun photos!
8. Rustic Photo Booth
Speaking of photos, you can design a photo booth area with vintage props and a Western backdrop to capture fun memories. Encourage guests to snap photos with cowboy hats, bandanas, and rustic frames for a keepsake that lasts. If you want your parties to become legendary, ask them to post about the "exclusive" Wild West party on social media!
9. Campfire Storytelling and S'mores
Don't forget the snacks! S'mores are a classic, or anything chocolaty!
When it gets to be late afternoon or night, set up a cozy campfire area if you can. This is a great time for guests to share tall tales. Whether you have a real fire or not, you can always have s'mores! They're probably the easiest party snack because most guests prefer to make their own, too.
10. Cowboy Costume Corner
| Women's Cowgirl Costume | Toddler Cowboy Costume | Cowgirl Costume for Kids | Men's Cowboy Costume |
Encourage guests to embrace the theme by donning their best cowboy and cowgirl attire. You could even have a costume contest and give out prizes for the best costumes!
Will you be recreating the Old West at your cowboy party? We'd love to hear your thoughts, so leave a comment, share your experiences, and suggest new party ideas for future blogs. Don't forget to see all of our cowboy costumes if you want to throw an unforgettable Western bash!
