Have a Rockin’ Moroccan Birthday Party
Dear Penelope,
I am turning 24 next month, and I would like to have a party for about 40 people with a theme. Can you suggest something fun and creative that isn't necessarily centered on drinking? Either a costume scheme, a food scheme, or a decorating scheme, or something which incorporates all of the above? I'm tired of "luaus" and "fiestas"!!
-Nika
Boston, MA
Dear Nika,
At your age, I’m sure that parties not necessarily centered on drinking are hard to come by. Sometimes, it’s nice to take a night off from drinking and wake up the morning after a party without sweating alcohol. My party planning advice to you: go Moroccan for your 24th birthday festivities! A Moroccan theme is great for a party because it ties in well with costumes, food and decorations. If you and your friends don’t happen to have your own personal stockpiles of Moroccan clothing, dressing in earthy colors and jewel tones with lots of gold accessories will work perfectly as a simple alternative to full costumes.
For your party food checklist, I’d suggest serving the traditional array of hot and cold salads, tagines and couscous dishes. My favorite Moroccan dish is a sweet and savory three-layer pie called bisteeya, that’s relatively simple to cook oneself. The great thing about Moroccan food is that it works just as well for summer as it does during the winter, because of the delicious and liberal use of fresh herbs (especially mint) and spices in Moroccan cooking. A delicious alternative to the party standard of alcoholic beverages, warm or chilled mint tea with your Moroccan meal will leave guests feeling refreshed. Jewel toned fabrics can be draped over your furniture for decoration to create a relaxing Moroccan party space, and low tables and plenty of pillows on the floor for seating will complete the desired party effect.
Have a wonderful birthday!
Enjoy Planning.
Penelope
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