Welcome to our complete and ultimate guide on how to throw a mafia theme party. This is a great theme for any occasion such as a birthday party, retirement party and countless other occasions. It is actually a superb theme for a party if you want your guest to dress up in fancy dress.

If you are a fan of all things mafia related, gangsters, the roaring 1920s, prohibition and hidden bars then this is party theme is perfect for you.

Check out this range of mafia theme party decorations and supplies sets by clicking here.

How to Throw a Mafia Theme Party – The Ultimate Guide

What Do You Need to Throw a Mafia Theme Party

There are plenty of party supplies that you will need when you throw a mafia theme party. Here, in this ultimate guide we will take a look at everything from gangster themed party decorations, party food, entertainment and everything else.

Let us waste no more time and dive straight into our ultimate guide on how to throw a mafia theme party.

Mafia Party Invitation Ideas

The first thing to consider when you throw a mafia themed party is the invitations. There are two lines of thought when it comes to the invitations you send out to your guests. You can buy readymade mafia or gangster style party invitations.

Alternatively you can make your own. You could use red and black card and free templates found online. If you use templates you should look for something that has a gangster, mafia or 1920’s vibe to it.

There is also the option, if you cannot find gangster style invites, you could use party invitations that look like paying cards.

When you write out your invitations you could address your guests by mafia nicknames such as “Big Tony” or “Sassy Sally.”

You could use phrases like “You’re invited to an exclusive gathering,” or “Don’t blow this cover – It’s a Mafia Party!”

Other details you should include on your party invitations should be as the time and date of the party. You can refer to the location as “the joint” and the dress code could be referred to as “flappers and fedoras encouraged”

A really fun extra you could include on the your mafia party invitation is a secret password. Just like people would need to get into a speakeasy back in the day.

You can by red and black card by clicking here.

You can buy readymade mafia party invitations by clicking here.

Check out these playing card style party invitations by clicking here.

Mafia Party Decorations – Setting the Scene

As we all know when it comes to setting the stage for any party it is the party decorations that are key. There are so many options available to you when you throw a mafia theme party.

Here are some ideas on how to set the stage and decorate your venue.

Setting the Mood

Firstly, you should concentrate on decorations that will transport your guests back to the roaring 20’s. Perhaps try to replicate the likes of speakeasies for example or creating a venue where your guests feel like they have just walked onto the set of a classic mafia movie.

This can easily be achieved with the use of vintage photos or posters of speakeasies, flappers, and gangsters. You could also project black white gangsters on a muted screen somewhere in the venue.

Color Scheme: Speak Easy Elegance

You can easily create a speakeasy elegance for your venue with the correct color scheme. To do this you can use red and black as the foundation of your color scheme. This combination of colors is the perfect choice for giving your venue a mafia vibe.

You can use red tablecloths and black linens draped over furniture to create a sophisticated yet speakeasy vibe to your venu.

You should not be afraid of adding color beyond red and black to your venue. The use of silver and gold balloons would look awesome while streamers and napkins add a hint of flair without losing the mafia theme.

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Lighting: A Speakeasy’s Soft Glow

When you throw a mafia theme party you really want soft lighting. Bright lights are a big no-no for this party. What you are wanting to achieve here is a speakeasy vibe.

This sounds like it is difficult to achieve but it is easier than you may think. You could use fairy lights strung strategically around the room. Combine the fair lights with lambs fitted with warm yellow bulbs. You could even use some flameless candles to add some flickering ambiance.

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Speakeasy Accents: Keeping it Discreet

Keeping with the speakeasy vibe you can add some “Shhh” signs around your venue. This is exactly the type of signs that would be found in speakeasies back in the 20’s encouraging guests to keep things quiet and discreet.

You have two easy options here. Channel your inner artist and whip up some “Shhh” signs yourself. Grab some red or black cardstock, cut out fun speech bubble shapes, and write “Shhh” in a bold white or gold. Feeling less crafty? No worries! Party supply stores and online retailers have a wide selection of pre-made “Shhh” signs waiting to add a touch of speakeasy charm.

You can hang your signs on doors and scatter them around the party venue. Place them on tables to add a touch of lighthearted mystery, or hang them on bathroom doors with a funny message like “Loose Lips Sink Ships… Don’t Spill the Beans in Here!” These little details will keep your guests chuckling and keep the speakeasy vibe alive.

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Buy “Shhh” signs by clicking here.

Another great mafia party decoration you could use are “wanted” posters. You could buy readymade “wanted” posters. On the other hand you can easily create your very own DIY posters featuring your guests. If you take the DIY route here you could use silly captions like “Most Likely to Start a Gang War over the Last Slice of Pizza” or “Public Enemy No. 1 When it Comes to Clean Dishes.” Hang the finished posters around the space for all to admire (and laugh at!).

Buy “Wanted” posters by clicking here.

Gangster Touches: Props and Flair

Since this is a mafia party you will most certainly want to include some gangster theme party decorations. Here are some ideas for gangster style party decorations for when you throw a mafia party:

• Tommy Guns (Props!): There probably is not a living soul out there who does not thing of a tommy gun and then thing of 1920s gangsters. For this reasons you can use plastic or inflatable tommy gun props as party decorations when you throw a mafia party. Your guests can also use them as photo props.

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• Fedora Hats: Scattering fedora hats around your party venue are great for several reasons. Firstly, they simply make a great gangster or mafia party decoration. Secondly, they could also be used by your guests as photo props.

Buy fedora hats by clicking here.

• Vintage Suitcases: Another great idea for decorations when you throw a mafia theme party is the use of vintage suitcases. These can be used to create a makeshift bar or display table. Vintage suitcases are the perfect way of adding 1920s authenticity to your party venue.

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Playing Cards and Poker Chips: Scatter decks of playing cards and poker chips on tables for impromptu games and entertainment.

Check out this range of poker sets by clicking here.

Mafia Theme Party Music Ideas

You simply cannot throw a mafia theme party, or any party for that matter, without some music. When you throw a mafia party you will likely want to create a playlist which includes 1920s jazz, blues, and swing classics.

Here are some ideas of songs which you could include on your gangster party playlist:

1. Frank Sinatra – “Fly Me to the Moon”: A timeless hit from the legendary crooner, capturing the essence of sophistication and romance.
2. Dean Martin – “Ain’t That a Kick in the Head”: Dean Martin’s smooth vocals will transport your guests to the world of the Rat Pack.
3. Louis Armstrong – “What a Wonderful World”: A soulful and uplifting song that remains an iconic jazz classic.
4. Benny Goodman – “Sing, Sing, Sing”: Swing to the beat of this big band classic, perfect for dancing the night away.
5. Nina Simone – “Feeling Good”: The soulful vocals of Nina Simone will add a touch of class and emotion to the atmosphere.
6. Duke Ellington – “Take the ‘A’ Train”: A vibrant and energetic jazz number that will transport your guests back in time.
7. Etta James – “At Last”: The smooth and powerful vocals of Etta James will set a romantic tone for the party.
8. Glenn Miller – “In the Mood”: A swinging big band hit that will have your guests tapping their feet.
9. Nat King Cole – “L-O-V-E”: Nat King Cole’s velvety voice will provide the perfect backdrop for romantic moments.
10. Billie Holiday – “God Bless the Child”: The soulful voice of Billie Holiday will captivate your guests and add an emotional touch to the party.

Your best option for music if you are to throw a mafia party is to use Amazon Music. You will never ever be without the perfect song at your fingertips for any party you throw. You can check out the best deals for Amazon Music by clicking here.

There is also the option of hiring live musicians for an extra touch of authenticity.

Mafia Party Food and Drink Ideas – Food Fit For a Don

You will certainly want to have food for your guests when you throw a mafia theme party. There are no strict rules when it comes to which foods you should put on the menu. However, it would be a great idea to consider including delicious finger foods that are easy to eat while mingling and maintain that 1920s gangster vibe.

Below I have included some ideas for gangster and mafia party food that would work well at your gangster party.

Classic Gangster Grub:

• Mini Cannoli: These bite-sized ricotta-filled pastries are a staple of Italian cuisine and perfect for finger food.
• Bruschetta with Caprese Salad: Classic bruschetta with diced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil offers a refreshing option.
• Mini Meatballs: Small, flavorful meatballs in a tangy tomato sauce are always a crowd-pleaser.
• Deviled Eggs: Get creative with your fillings! Consider using smoked salmon, truffle oil, or even sriracha for a kick.

Gangster Themed Bites:

• Mini Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizzas: Individual portions of this iconic pizza, complete with a flaky crust and gooey cheese, are a satisfying finger food.
• “Tommy Gun” Hot Dogs: Wrap hot dogs in pretzel dough and bake for a fun and handheld option.
• “Speakeasy” Sliders: Miniature burgers with all the fixings on slider buns are perfect for grabbing and gobbling.
• “Flapper” Finger Sandwiches: Cut dainty finger sandwiches with fancy fillings like cucumber and cream cheese or smoked salmon and avocado.

Gangster Style Dips:

• Creamy Gorgonzola Dip: Serve with sliced apples, pears, or baguette slices for dipping.
• Spicy Marinara Sauce: Perfect for dipping breadsticks, mozzarella sticks, or even grilled vegetables.
• Roasted Garlic Hummus: A delicious and healthy option for pita bread, crudités, or crackers.
• Classic Guacamole: Fresh and flavorful guacamole with tortilla chips is always a crowd-pleaser.

Sweet Treats:

• Cannoli Cream-Filled Profiteroles: These light and airy pastry puffs filled with cannoli cream are a decadent ending.
• Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: A classic and easy sweet treat for any party.
• Mini Sfogliatelle Ricotta Pastries: Another delicious Italian option for a sweet ending.
• “Bootleg” Booze Brownies: Spiked brownies with a hint of your favorite “bootleg” liquor (non-alcoholic of course!) for a playful twist (for adults only!).

Bonus Tip: Don’t forget the drinks! Offer classic mocktails with names like “Godfather,” “Speakeasy Fizz,” or “Flapper Fancy” to add to the theme.

You will also want to consider drinks for your guests so they can stay refreshed. There is the obvious choice of providing alcoholic drinks for your guests. Cocktails would be a great choice. Do not forget that you also have the option of mocktails as well. Whether you are providing cocktails or mocktails you could create a drinks menu filled with names like “Godfather” or “Speakeasy Fizz”.

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Mafia Party Games Ideas – Entertainment fit for a Mob Boss

When you throw a mafia theme party you will most likely want to consider some form of entertainment. Whether this is party games or other forms of entertainment is down to your own personal choice.

Here are some ideas for mafia themed party games.

• Murder Mystery Party: Take the classic murder mystery party format and inject a mafia theme. Assign roles like “Don,” “Caporegimes,” “Underbosses,” and “Innocent Civilians.” Guests need to solve the “whodunit” while navigating mafia alliances and betrayals.

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• Poker Tournament (Play Money): Up the stakes (with play money of course!) and have guests participate in a high-rollers poker tournament. This adds a layer of suspense and allows guests to channel their inner card shark.

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• Mafia (The Party Game): This classic game of deduction and bluffing is perfect for a mafia party. Players are assigned secret roles like Mafia members, Detectives, and innocent Villagers. The Mafia tries to eliminate the Villagers while the others work together to identify and eliminate the Mafia.

Buy Mafia (The Party Game) by clicking here.

Here are some interactive mafia party ideas for you to consider.

• The Godfather Auction: This is a fun icebreaker activity. Gather a collection of random and silly items (plastic fedora, inflatable tommy gun, feather boa). Guests take turns bidding on the items using play money. The highest bidder wins the item, adding a touch of lighthearted competition.

• The Informant: Divide guests into small groups. Each group has a hidden object (playing card, small toy) that one person in the group secretly knows about. The groups take turns questioning each other to try and identify the “informant” who knows the object.

• Flapper Fashion Show: Set up a runway (even just using chairs) and have guests strut their stuff in their best 1920s-inspired outfits. Guests can vote for the “Best Dressed Don,” “Most Dazzling Flapper,” or “Sharpest Gangster.”

• Gangster Trivia: Test your guests’ knowledge of all things mafia with a trivia game. Questions can cover famous gangsters, mafia movies, 1920s history, and even mafia slang.

• Sing-Off (1920s Style): Create a playlist of classic 1920s jazz and blues tunes. Guests can either sing along individually or form small groups for a mini “gangster groupie” sing-off competition.

Here are some ideas for gangster party entertainment which will appeal to your more creative guests.

• DIY Speakeasy Signs: Provide craft supplies like cardboard, paint, markers, and glitter. Guests can create their own personalized “speakeasy” signs to take home as party favors.

• Gangster Wanted Poster Photo Booth: Set up a backdrop with a funny “wanted poster” template. Guests can pose with props like fedoras and toy tommy guns, and have their photos taken with their “wanted” captions.

• The Don’s Negotiation Corner: Create a dedicated space with a table and chairs decorated like a Don’s office. Guests can take turns playing the role of the Don, settling disputes (both real and imaginary) between other guests in a humorous way.

If you you are to throw a mafia theme party that is for adults you could possibly include a cigar bar. The male guests will love this sophisticated touch while the woman will hate it. Which ever side

Another great form of entertainment would be to set up an area or a photo booth where guests can take photos. You could quite easily set up an area filled with gangster themed photo props.

Check out this range of ganger themed photo props by clicking here.

Mafia Theme Party Favors Ideas

If you throw a mafia theme party you will more than likely want to say a huge big thank you to all your guests. Firstly you will need gangster themed party favor bags. A great idea would be to put party favors in party favor bags that look like swag bags. You can check out swag bag themed bags by clicking here.

Here are some truly awesome ideas for gangster themed party favors that your guests will love.

Edible Treats:

First, here are suggestions and ideas for edible gangster themed party favors that your guests will love.

• Mini Cannoli: These bite-sized ricotta-filled pastries are a classic Italian dessert and perfect for a mafia party favor.
• Individual Cannolis in Treat Bags: For a twist, package single cannoli in small cellophane bags with a decorative ribbon tied around the top.
• “Bootleg” Booze Brownies (For Adults Only!): Individually wrapped brownies with a playful wink to the mafia world (without any actual alcohol of course!). Package with a label that says “Bootleg Brownie – Don’t Get Caught!”
• Chocolate “Golden Bullets”: Wrap Hershey’s Kisses or other round candies in gold foil wrappers and tie with a black ribbon.
• “Gangster Gummies”: Package gummy candies like mafia loot in small cellophane bags with a label that says “Gangster Gummies – Swipe These!”
• Fortune Cookies with Mafia Sayings: Instead of traditional fortunes, insert slips of paper with funny mafia-themed sayings like “You’ve got a good offer you can’t refuse,” or “Looks like you made it out alive!”

Gangster Gear:

Next, here are some ideas for party favors which are more gangster related.

• Mini Fedoras: Small, inexpensive fedoras make for a fun and functional party favor. Guests can wear them during the party and take them home as a memento.

Buy mini fedoras by clicking here.

• Plastic Toy Tommy Guns: These lightweight plastic props add to the party atmosphere and make a playful favor.

Buy mini tommy guns by clicking here.

• “Shhh” Keychains: Create or purchase keychains with a small sign that says “Shhh” – a reminder of the speakeasy theme.

Buy shhh keychaings by clicking here.

• Playing Card Coasters: Find sets of coasters printed with playing card designs – a subtle nod to the gambling side of the mafia world.

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• Fake Mustaches on Sticks: These self-adhesive mustaches on sticks provide endless photo booth fun and can be doubled as a party favor for guests to take home.

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• Speakeasy Souvenirs: Since you are likely creating a speakeasy theme for your party here are ideas based on those speakeasy places.

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• Miniature Prohibition Signs: Find small metal or wooden signs with sayings like “Prohibition is in Effect” or “Shhh – Speakeasy in Progress.”

Buy prohibition signs by clicking here.

• “Speakeasy” Coasters: Similar to the playing card coasters, find coasters with a speakeasy design or slogan.

Buy speakeasy coasters by clicking here.

• Vintage Style Playing Cards: A deck of vintage-looking playing cards adds a touch of old-time charm and can be used for future game nights.

Buy vintage playing cards by clicking here.

• Miniature Flasks (For Adults Only!): Small, decorative flasks can be a fun favor for adult guests (filled with non-alcoholic drinks of course!). Ensure they are clearly labeled “For Non-Alcoholic Beverages Only.”

Buy hip flasks by clicking here.

DIY Favors: You do not have to spend a fortune on party favors. Here are some ideas for DIY gangster themed party faovrs.

• Decorate Cigar Boxes (For Non-Smoking Favors): Find small decorative cigar boxes and fill them with candy, cookies, or other treats. These can be a fun and unique way to package your favors.

Buy cigar boxes by clicking here.

• “Gangster Wanted” Poster Favor Bags: Create small favor bags with a “wanted” poster design on them. Guests can write their own funny nicknames on the bag before filling it with treats.

Buy wanted posters by clicking here.

• “Gangster Loot” Bags: Fill small brown paper bags with your chosen mafia-themed treats and label them “Gangster Loot” for a playful touch.

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What to Wear to a Mafia Theme Party – Gangster Chic

If when you throw a mafia party you are wondering what to wear to such a gangster themed party then this is the section of this article for you. Here are some ideas for what you should wear when attending a mafia theme party.

For the gents attending a gangster party here are some seriously awesome ideas.

• The Classic Gangster: Think sharp suits and fedoras. Opt for a pinstripe suit, fedora, dress shirt, suspenders, and a polished pair of shoes. Accessorize with a tie clip or vintage pocket watch.

• The Enforcer: Go for a more rugged look. Choose dark jeans, a leather jacket, a button-down shirt with the sleeves rolled up, and work boots. A newsboy cap or flat cap adds a touch of mob muscle.

• The Undercover Cop: Play the role of a detective trying to infiltrate the mob. Wear a trench coat, fedora, dress shirt, tie, and slacks. Carry a fake badge or prop newspaper for added effect.

• The Bootlegger: Channel your inner rum runner with a newsboy cap, suspenders, a button-down shirt with rolled sleeves, work pants, and a worn leather briefcase (empty of course!).

For the ladies attending a gangster party here are some seriously awesome ideas.

• The Flapper: Embrace the glamour of the 1920s with a fringed flapper dress, cloche hat, long strand pearls, and T-strap heels. Don’t forget the signature red lipstick and smokey eye makeup!

• The Mob Moll: Dress to impress in a sleek, figure-hugging dress, high heels, and a feather boa. Add some sparkle with statement jewelry and a vintage clutch.

• The Undercover Agent: Go for a sophisticated and inconspicuous look. Wear a tailored pantsuit, blouse, fedora, and heels. Carry a small purse and wear minimal jewelry.

• The Casino High Roller: Channel your inner Lady Luck with a glamorous evening gown, long gloves, statement earrings, and a sparkling clutch. Don’t forget a playful feather boa or fur stole.

For the couples who are attending your party, here are some awesome ideas.

• Bonnie and Clyde: A classic choice for couples. Bonnie can dress in a flapper dress and Clyde can go for a classic gangster look.

• The Don and His Moll: The powerful mafia boss with his glamorous companion. The Don can dress in a sharp suit and fedora, while the Moll can stun in a luxurious dress and jewelry.

• Undercover Partners: A detective and their undercover partner working a mob case. Coordinate outfits that suggest professionalism with a hint of disguise.

Taking it Up a Notch: Unleash Your Inner Don

Here are some ideas so when you throw a mafia theme party you can take it to the next level.

• Hire a caricature artist to capture guests in their 1920s finest. The finished drawings become hilarious keepsakes and add a touch of interactive fun.

• Rent a fog machine (with proper safety precautions) to create a smoky speakeasy ambiance. This theatrical effect instantly transports guests back to a bygone era of hidden bars and hush-hush conversations.

Buy fog machines by clicking here.

• Create mafia style cocktails for your guests to enjoy. You can give those cocktails catchy name like “Godfather on the Rocks” or “Flapper Fizz.” Find a unique recipe that complements the theme and offer it alongside other refreshments.

• Take your food offerings to the next level with east. Hire a chef who specializes in Italian cuisine. Guests will be impressed by authentic flavors and presentations, adding a touch of culinary sophistication to the evening.

• Bring in a live jazz band or DJ who can play 1920s music and contemporary dance hits. This ensures there’s something for everyone and keeps the party atmosphere lively.

The Grand Finale: An Unforgettable Night

A well-planned mafia party is more than just a gathering; it’s an opportunity to create lasting memories with friends and family. Imagine the laughter shared over secret identities, the thrill of strategizing during a mafia game, and the joy of capturing the night’s events through photos and videos.

As the final notes of the music fade and guests reminisce about the evening’s highlights, you’ll know your hard work paid off. A successful mafia party isn’t just about the decorations or the food; it’s about creating an atmosphere that allows people to relax, have fun, and step outside their everyday lives.

Encourage your guests to share their photos and stories from the party on social media using a designated hashtag like “#MafiaNight” or “#SpeakeasySoiree.” This not only allows everyone to relive the fun but also creates a virtual space to share the night’s unforgettable moments.

So, put on your best flapper dress or sharp fedora, and get ready to throw a mafia party that your guests will be raving about for years to come!

Take a look at more Mafia Theme party ideas and article here.