Throw a 1950's Sock Hop

by Carly Ogborne (subscribe)

Published March 21st 2011

A sock hop was the term used to describe a school dance in the 1950's. The event was usually held in a school gymnasium or assembly hall and students were required to remove their shoes to protect the varnished floors; hence the term 'sock hop'. Throw your own sock hop for some good old fashioned fun.

The most important aspect is the venue. Your sock hop should take place in a non-carpeted venue so that your guests can bop around in their socks. Pick a room in your house that has timber floors or tiles or hire out a local hall.

To set the scene, hang up posters of stars from the day like Elvis Presley and James Dean. You can buy these online or, if you have a good quality printer, try a Google Image search. And of course, no 1950's themed party is complete without a jukebox.

The right invitations will help to set the theme. Create 45" records from sheets of black cardboard or, if you can afford, print the invitations on actual records. Include some 1950's terminology, like, 'Let's Rock Around the Clock!' or 'Have a swell time at the sock hop!' and let everyone know that their best 1950's attire is required.

Entertainment on the night can include swing dance lessons, a hula hoop or limbo competition or a round of 1950's trivia. You might also like to award prizes for the best costume and the best dancer or, in true 1950's dance style, nominate and choose a Prom King and Queen.

Help us improve Click here if you liked this article 58