It’s time for another date night in! This time we are going back to the 1960s. A time of protests, movements for civil and women’s rights, hippies, a moon landing and a little event called Woodstock. There was a lot of turmoil during this decade but there were some pretty groovy things too. So dig out the mini skirts, go-go boots, peace signs and bell bottoms for a far out evening.
What to Eat:
Dinner and cocktail parties were all the rage in 1960s suburbia. Julia Child’s The Art of French Cooking was just published in 1961 and housewives across America were trying out these new French recipes. Dishes like Beef Wellington, Beef Bourguignon, Chicken Divan, and Swedish Meatballs would be great choices for your dinner. The Beef Bourguignon takes almost 5 hours start to finish so keep that in mind. For appetizers Lipton’s Onion Soup Dip or stuffed mushrooms are a great way to kick off your evening. Just like in the 50s Jell-o seems to be everywhere in the 60s too. Sparkling Jell-o molds, Bananas Foster, or Black Forest Cake (or cupcakes) are sweet treats that are perfect desserts.
What to Drink:
Old Fashioneds, Manhattans, Harvey Wallbangers and Whiskey Sours are the stars of the decade. Gimlets were the Betty Draper’s drink of choice on Mad Men so you can’t go wrong shaking up one of those as well. Andrew suggested a Harvey Wallbanger, and although they were more popular in the 70s they were first drank in the 60s so if you have some Galliano hanging around, go for it! For a booze free option Creme Soda and Ginger Beer were also super popular.
What to Listen to:
Elvis was still pumping out hits during the early 60s. The middle of the decade was ruled by The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and The Supremes. If you want to have more of a hippie vibe look for Woodstock favorites, like The Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane, Crosby, Stills & Nash and Jimi Hendrix. Spotify has some great playlists or you can always create your own! I suggest searching for British Invasion, Motown, or Woodstock playlists.
What to Do:
Twister was introduced in 1966, it was super popular not only with kids but was often played at parties by adults. Stratego and Chess were also a favorite board games of the time. Some refer to the 60s as the “golden age” of chess because of a high interest in world championships due to Bobby Fischer. If you’re more in the mood for a movie try one of the top 10 of the era. Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb, Psycho, or The Apartment are great choices. You could also watch Woodstock: 3 Days of Peace and Music (the documentary), though produced in 1970 the festival took place in ’69. And Taking Woodstock (2009) is a super fun choice and you still get the great music.
I hope your evening is outta sight!
