Moroccan Garden Party

Don't tell my friends I ever said this, but college parties can easily get old. It's the same red plastic cups, the same loud-mouthed senior peer-pressuring everyone to beer bong, and the same people proclaiming that this is "the best party ever". A great way to spice up any old party is to create a theme. I am a huge fan of the creativity that comes with themed parties. It dictates me what to wear, so I wouldn't have to be fumbling around my closet trying to figure out appropriate attire, and most of all they are just simply: fun. For your next party, try something you'll know your friends haven't thrown before: A Moroccan Garden Party. Here are some tips to get you started! Food and Beverages. What's a party without food and drinks? Chips and salsa are boring. Instead, educate your guests with a great selection of Moroccan appetizers. Moroccan cuisine extensively uses spices and is especially diverse, because of it's interaction with the outside world. You'll find influences from the Middle East to Mediterranean. Try out these recipes from Recipezaar for Spiced Vegetable Phyllo Parcels and Chick-Pea Dip to serve with Pita. For beverages, Moroccans especially love Mint Tea. It's sold in street vendors as a mid-day beverage, or enjoyed after a meal. Try this incredible easy recipe from Food Network for Moroccan Mint Tea. Decoration. Moroccan culture embraces all things colorful. Set up low tables and cover with brightly colored cloth. Throw floor pillows around them for guest seating. Pick up or rent some hookahs and fruit flavored tobacco to use as a centerpiece, and a great interactive activity for everyone. Dim the lights and light up some candles, then drape color cloths over your windows and curtains to create a mysterious tent-like feel. Entertainment. Ever been to a Moroccan restaurant? The ones I've been to with my family, had me embarrassed as my dad and brother left tantalized by their belly dancers. As a great symbol of their dance culture, belly dancers would be a great addition to your Moroccan themed party. If you can, hire some belly dancers to create a fun mood to your party. They will entertain the guests, and may even be educational as some offer lessons!