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Fancy Dress Party Games

Fancy dress parties, or costume parties, involve dressing up in a variety of outfits; for example, historical attire, animal suits or western attire. At these parties, the guests receive a theme and must dress accordingly. Party hosts and guests can choose from a vast array of themes, styles and outfits. The Victorian Era influenced modern, fancy dress parties, as did the Edwardian Era. Until the late 1970s, the rented costumes tended to be simple. From the late 1990s, the fancy dress concept gained popularity and costumes became more elaborate.

Swashbucklers and Secrets
- Swashbucklers and Secrets is a game played by adults that reflects the piracy age of the late 1600s. In a tavern setting, costumed guests engage in merrymaking until a loud scream sends the guests running. The disreputable pirate Scowlin̵7; Smythe lays dead, stabbed with a dagger still implanted in his heart. The game revolves around identifying the murderer from among the players. The game may be modified to match the party host̵7;s requirements.
Teddy Bear Treasure Hunt
- The Teddy Bear Treasure Hunt is a suitable game for children attending a teddy bear-themed fancy dress party. The game provides an outlet for the children's excessive energy. Colored crepe paper can be used to mark out a hidden trail that must be discovered. A teddy bear positioned at the end of the trail with a gift tucked in its arms goes to the winner. The hunt becomes more intriguing when small surprise gifts such as chocolate can be found along the trail.
Tossing the Clown Nose
- Tossing the Clown Nose is a fun-filled game played by small children ages two years and above. The front of a cardboard box is painted to resemble a clown's face. Alternatively, a picture of a clown's face can be pasted onto the box. Cut out the mouth, eyes and nose making wide holes. When the games begin, set the box on a stool in the middle of the party area or out in the garden. The little guests receive small balls that they have to throw into the holes on the clown's face. Successful throws are rewarded with small gifts.
Panning for Gold
- Children invited to a western-themed party, dress up in western fancy dress costume; checked shirts, jeans, boots and hats. Panning for gold is a western game that can be played by children and adults. Prepare a large sandbox or pile of sand Depending on the ages of the players, a variety of items may be hidden in the sand, including small toys, coins, polished stones, little crystal curios or artificial jewelry. Each player gets a mesh strainer and tray. Players sift the sand to find hidden treasures and it's "finders keepers" in this game.

Party Games