10 Party Trends for 2022

Remember to always stay safe and follow your state and local mandates for gatherings; restrictions can vary from county to county, so be aware, especially with updates that may affect your event.

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Happy New Year and I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling 2022! I’m sorry, I already hate myself for saying that. But you know what? That is what I’m feeling about this year….very, ‘Whatevs, yo’.

Last year’s hot party trends were living the highs and lows as many people were in and out of lockdowns and restrictions. Some are going to become mainstays, like micro events and thoughtful vendor curation. We still need to celebrate and be social as safely as possible, so let’s talk about what I think will be the hottest 2022 party trends.

As always, these are just suggestions.  If there is a trend that you absolutely must have (I see you, oversized disco balls…) and it works for you, by all means, carry on

Anything Pantone Color of The Year

Anything PANTONE Color of the Year is always on the list.  For the first time in the history of this tradition, rather than pull from its expansive archive, Pantone decided to invent a never-before-seen shade just for 2022, called Very Peri; “Displaying a carefree confidence and a daring curiosity that animates our creative spirit, inquisitive and intriguing Very Peri helps us to embrace this altered landscape of possibilities, opening us up to a new vision as we rewrite our lives.”

And we so needed this periwinkle blue hue with a violet-red undertone. It’s delightfully versatile, blending with whatever color family it sits with. From a pop of color on your table with beautiful stemware to inspiring rooms. This gorgeous bat mitzvah featured on Kara’s Party Ideas uses the color in its blooms.

Do-over Parties

From graduations to weddings, many milestone events were cancelled or postponed due to the pandemic. If you live in an area where safe gatherings are allowed, consider hosting your own glorious do-over party to celebrate your COVID-era milestones.

I love this 40th birthday do-over party featured on C + W Events, down to the imprinted ice pointing out the celebrant’s age “+ 1” in each guest’s cocktail.

Bold and Unconventional Flavors

Thanks to the rise of home cooks during quarantine, most people started having more welcoming palettes to new flavors. Prepare for a rise in catering requests for interesting, unique regional flavors. Mobile food vendors are often an invitation to try something adventurous, especially fusion cuisine.

Micro Events Are Still Strong

I predicted 2020’s rise of the micro event thanks to COVID and in some cases, not much has changed. From the rising popularity of micro weddings to micro catering, catering optimized for smaller groups, it’s all about providing a special, intimate celebration with those able to join.

Hybrid Entertainment

With everything going hybrid, so is entertainment! Pairing DJs with live musicians allows the style of music you prefer and get your audience excited with the addition of performers! The musicians can include guitar, percussion, horns, drum set, violin, and even singers, which will keep your guests on the dance floor.

Elaborate Cakes Are Making A Comeback

I do love a self-portioned dessert like cupcakes or doughnuts, but 2022 is going to be The Year of The Anti-Gravity Cake. You know you’ve seen them, clever cakes with gravity-defying aspects. I first spied them early last year, and they are picking up steam! Exhibit A from Wilton….

Non-alcoholic Beverages

Mocktail bars are not a new idea…I’ve been creating them for years. I even called them out as a 2019 Party Trend but only a few companies were on the non-alcoholic spirits train. More companies are now creating amazing, high-quality zero-proof spirits that can be used in the same way as traditional spirits. It is more than just juice or soda-based mocktails of the past; we are talking about highly crafted beverages from brands like Lyre’s and Optimist. From tequila to malts, there is a faux for everyone.

Blast From The Past

2022, thy name is nostalgia. Familiarity is important during uncertain and unprecedented times. Expect this year to take the blast from the past to the next level with a rise in throwbacks like decade parties, childhood games, and thrifted décor. Sidebar, how many remakes and revivals have we seen in 2021? From Doogie Kameāloha, M.D. (my personal favorite on Disney+) and Gossip Girl to That Which Must Not Be Named Since Kim Cattrall Did Not Return.

• Grandmillenial or ‘granny chic’ decor is my love language; I didn’t know that this was the name of my love of chinoiserie, rattan, and cabbage leaf plates a la Martha Stewart and Eddie Ross.
• Tablescapes will be featuring classic china with contemporary pieces, like these featured on Martha Stewart.
• Classic board and card games are perfect for low-key game nights, while bouncy houses and craft areas will rule larger events.

Hellenistic revival

Greece is the word…according to Pinterest! They predict that future interior trends are rooted in ancient Mediterranean history, and I agree! Grandmillenial trends (see above) embrace Grecian motifs like greek key pillows, urns, and bust pots.

For entertaining, like this ethereal wedding, it can take a romantic turn with luscious florals, and gold details mixed with modern elements.

Undercelebrated Milestones

Divorce and break-up parties have been around for a while. 2022 party trends will embrace other milestone celebrations and new life chapters. Nowadays, everyone is looking for a reason to celebrate. In 2019, I predicted the rise of celebrating unusual holidays (I’m looking at you Galentine’s Day); now it is extending to undercelebrated moments.

Yes, we’ve lived through the Era of the Potty Party, but it’s coming back with a vengeance, no pun intended. Did bestie get a hard-earned promotion at work? Party with this balloon set from Amazon. New empty nesters? Photoshoots are becoming a thing.

Are there any hot 2022 party trends you would like to try?