Tips for Hosting an Academy Awards Viewing Party

If you are interested in hosting an Academy Awards viewing party for the first time, or if you are hoping to improve upon your previous Academy Awards party venture, there are a number of tips that can help you and your guests experience a party that will be remembered for years to come.

Start your Academy Awards viewing party just as you would any other: with a guest list. Guests should be chosen as much for the flair they will bring to the party as for the closeness you, as the host or hostess, feel for them. The number of guests invited depends entirely on the space restraints of the venue and the party budget. Viewing party invitations should include all vital information, such as the date of the Academy Awards, the time and length of the party, the location of the viewing party, and the manner of dress. It is an Academy Awards viewing party, so why not ask guests to wear their red carpet best?

Speaking of red carpet, don't forget to roll out the finest in Academy Awards worthy decorations. A red aisle runner is a must have for newly arriving guests, but other decorations can vary depending on the formality of your Academy Awards party. Academy Awards themed party decorations are widely available, but Oscar parties can also be dressed up with movie posters, preferably from nominated films or past Oscar winners. If you are seeking a more formal affair, it may be worthwhile to attempt to recreate the Kodak Theatre, the venue of the Academy Awards.

No party would be complete with favors. Hosting an Academy Awards viewing party requires that you let no guest go hungry. Hors d'oeuvres should suffice for some party goers, though due to the length of the Academy Awards, it would be wise to set up a buffet of cold foods that guests can sample throughout the night. Don't forget to include drinks on the menu, particularly champagne for guests who wish to toast the winners in style.

Though the Academy Awards viewing party is centered on the television screen, the thoughtful host should plan other activities to keep guests happily entertained. Consider including an Oscar ballot with the invitation, telling guests to complete the ballot with their choice and offer prizes of movie related gear, such as DVDs or theatre tickets, to those who pick the largest number of winners.