How to Throw a Vintage Halloween Party

Article courtesy of AOL

Halloween will be here before you know it, so now is the time to plan a great gathering—just for adults. But this year, do something different. Truly celebrate the time when the holiday became a national institution by throwing a 1920s theme party.

According to History.com, Halloween is believed to have originated with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, a time when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts. "In the eighth century, Pope Gregory III designated Nov. 1 as a time to honor all saints and martyrs; the holiday, All Saints' Day, incorporated some of the traditions of Samhain," the site says. "The evening before was known as All Hallows' Eve and later Halloween." By the 1920s, Halloween had become a secular holiday celebrated by the entire community.

Isn't that something to celebrate? To prep for the event, start by heading to a thrift store or vintage shop and search for old postcards, which you can use as invitations or decorations for the party. You should also be able to find inexpensive vintage glassware and trays, which you can use to serve small edibles or display candles.

Naturally, you'll want to ask your guests to wear costumes from the era, which, with "Boardwalk Empire" and "The Great Gatsby" making headlines, shouldn't be too hard to find. The men can channel their inner Nucky Thompson, while your female guests can be inspired by Daisy Buchanan's fancy attire.

The Roaring Twenties is a period that lends itself to an air of sophistication, which you can echo in an upscale menu. Think rich stews, mini meatballs, fruit cups and dainty individual Bundt cakes when planning out what you'd like to serve. Of course, it's still a party, so feel free to get creative by using small and large pumpkins as decorations or serving vessels. Just make sure they lean more toward autumnal than jack-o-lantern.