How do you make a party for a friend that is entirely different? What do you do when your significant other turns 40 and you’re tired of just getting a group of friends together to go to their favorite restaurant?

You build a castle and have a medieval evening planned for a group of friends, that’s what!  The first thing you have to do is get into the mental headspace of royalty. Think of yourself as a king or queen.  Imagine yourself having maids and servants. Watch a few period dramas on TV and start getting “in character.”

Second, we have found that since adults tend to go for Medieval themes, which makes a good first party theme idea for your Castle Anorak.  Check out treasure chests, old coins; go to thrift stores and look online; make a stone wall backdrop and even get the kids involved in art decorations.

Third, consider what food you will serve.  Get those really cool goblets for the wine (homemade and not-so-good – even better!).  Make some red swords out of pretzels or dragon fireballs from cereal (it’s all in the packaging!) and get the banquet really going.

Fourth, think about including a mystery theme in the event.  If you’re going to do that you have to prepare well in advance but it’s definitely doable. 

Whatever you do, just remember the more detached from reality it is, the better!  There’s nothing more fun than engaging your loved one and friends in the unexpected!