Mad Hatter Tea Party - Summer Party Ideas

Don’t be late; don’t be late as the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party is a very important date! As far as summer party ideas go, the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party theme has to be one of our absolute favourites here at Fizzbox. From ‘Drink Me’ cocktails on arrival to giant games and actor entertainment, this theme is so vast when it comes to creating your perfect party – the possibilities are endless!

Perhaps what we love most about this summer party theme is that it’s ideal for a whole array of occasions; whether it’s a birthday party (or a very merry unbirthday party!) a hen do, or a themed summer garden party for your team or group of friends, your guests will be in for a treat as soon as they step into this magical and intriguing summer party! If weird and wacky is what you’re looking for this summer, then we’re right behind you! At Fizzbox we take inspiration from all around us, but there are few themes that have captured the imagination quite as much as the peculiar fantasy world of Alice in Wonderland. So what are you waiting for? Let us guide you through our top ideas for throwing a brilliantly bonkers Mad Hatter’s Tea Party this summer and prepare to tumble down the rabbit hole for one unforgettable adventure!

What kind of venue would work best for a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party?

An outdoor garden venue would make the best setting for a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. Seek out a venue that offers its own private garden; many hotels, conference centres or stately homes may hire out their gardens during the summer months for private events.

How can you make a venue look like a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party?

By decorating your garden venue with stunning Alice in Wonderland theming, scenery and props! Our favourite ideas for transforming your venue and providing a truly memorable experience for your guests includes;

  • A ‘Drink me’ cocktail reception on arrival
  • ‘Eat me’ themed canapés
  • Long, banquet style table
  • Cups and Saucer
  • Hot and cold fork buffet
  • Alice, Mad Hatter Actors
  • Giant Decorations
  • Gold bird cages
  • Giant playing cards
  • Toadstool seating
  • Giant clocks ‘frozen’ at tea-time
  • DJ and chessboard dancefloor

Are there any drinks that are specifically suited to a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party?

If there’s one thing you should serve during your Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, it should be a signature cocktail, served in jam jar glasses with little ‘Drink Me’ tags attached. For effect, we’d recommend serving your signature ‘Drink Me’ cocktails for your guests on arrival for maximum impact!

If you’re unsure about what cocktail to serve as a welcome drink, then we’d say you can’t go wrong with anything fruity or summery; how about a Pina Colada, Rose Lemonade Elderflower Cocktail, Blackberry Cucumber Gin and Tonic, or just about anything else that packs a zesty and fruity punch to keep those summer vibes going! Of course, do ensure that your venue is able to provide a bar outside which serves a good selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

What should the dress code be for a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party?

Casual summer attire – although optional Alice in Wonderland fancy dress should definitely be on the dress code of the party invite! It’s the perfect way for you and your guests to let your hair down and experience an unforgettable party in wacky fancy dress should you want to – you could even offer a prize for ‘best fancy-dress costume!’. Otherwise, come wearing casual summer attire and get ready to relax in the warmer weather!

Is there any entertainment that’s ideal for a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party?

Every party needs a DJ to set the mood and spin a top selection of tunes to keep the party going, but providing something a little more unique for your summer celebration will always be well received by the guests. With this in mind, how about hiring Alice in wonderland and Mad Hatter actors to entertain your guests during the event? Another option for entertainment for your themed summer party, would be to hire some giant novelty games for your outdoor area! Giant games are a great way to get guests chatting and will make a great perfect icebreaker. Giant novelty games such as Chess, Jenga and Limbo will be sure to get your guests interacting and having some fun!

Summer food options for a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party

The summer food options for a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party are endless; you could opt for a traditional afternoon tea featuring a selection of delicate finger sandwiches, cream cakes and patisserie treats, along with a variety of scones, jam and cream for more of a classic tea party feel. Teapots serving tea and cafetières with freshly brewed coffee will complement the party food nice if you’re considering choosing an afternoon tea style meal.

Alternatively, you could opt for a summer buffet or you could take advantage of the warmer weather and request that the caterers at your venue provide a delicious barbeque feast featuring burgers, hotdogs and salads!

If budget permits, then an ice-cream van would be an incredible idea to serve dessert and keep your guests cool during the warmer weather.

Are there any extras that you’d recommend for a a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party?

If you’d like to truly spoil your guests, then you could also provide ‘Eat Me’ Canapes on arrival to accompany the ‘Drink Me’ arrival cocktails. Other ideas could include 2-3 drink tokens per guest so that they can treat themselves to some drinks from the bar.