Why should kids have all the fun?

Planning a costume party to reach adults for Christ

For years churches have planned Fall Festivals to share Christ with children and provide a safe and fun alternative to scary Halloween events. But, why do the kids get to have all the fun? What about the adults?

Following along behind little Cinderella on a sugar high, carrying her 10-pound bag of candy as she buzzes around bobbing for apples and throwing a beanbag through the clown’s mouth for yet another hyperactivity-inducing treat is not most grown-ups idea of a great time. So how can churches bring adults in on the fun and fellowship while being intentionally evangelistic? What about planning a costume party for grown-ups? “Why should children have all the fun?” could even be the theme of the night.

A costume party can be as formal or informal as you’d like. The venue is flexible, too. It can be held in various church members’ homes, in the church fellowship area or in a non-church setting. The key to setting the tone of the event is choosing the theme. For a more casual party plan a Western hoedown or a 1950’s sock-hop. For a fancier event host a “Masquerade Ball.” A family costume party is another idea; encourage entire families to come as a theme such as a basketball team or characters from a particular fairytale. You’re only limited by your imagination. You may want to avoid a Biblical theme, since this is an outreach event and some unchurched people might feel uncomfortable, not knowing how to dress.

Once you’ve decided the location and chosen your theme, the most important decision your planning committee will have to make is choosing the host. The person who will fill this role is crucial, because they’ll be sharing Christ with all of the guests. The costumes provide an excellent platform for sharing the gospel. Use the theme of “Who are you?” or “Taking off the mask,” then explain who we can be in Christ.

Another important factor to consider is the date and the promotion of the party. Be sure to schedule it for an evening that doesn’t conflict with normal children and youth events. Provide invitations for church members to give or mail out to their non-Christian friends. If you’re going to provide childcare, be sure to include that information on the invitation. Ask some teens in your youth group to help with childcare.

Make sure to plan lots of fun activities—you don’t want the party to feel too “grown up.” Have music playing and food available. Consider activities that go along with your theme. If it’s a hoedown give guests a chance to rope a wooden horse. Be sure to award a prize for best costume. And don’t hesitate to throw in some of the activities you enjoyed as a kid. What would a Fall Festival be without the traditional cake walk? And who wouldn’t love to see a 50-year-old cowboy bob for apples!

Despite all the fun and festivities the main focus of the event is still to share the love of Christ with people who may not have been willing to attend a regular worship service. Be sure to set aside time in the middle or near the end of the event, maybe after dinner is served, for the host or hostess to share a testimony and thank the guests for coming. If you would like more information about planning outreach events for your church visit www.NAMB.net/planit.