Nancy Meyers’ 1998 version of The Parent Trap starring Lindsay Lohan is iconic to say the least. This Disney Channel original made us all want to spend a summer at Camp Walden, go shopping in London with Elizabeth James, and of course sip wine in the Napa vineyard with Nick Parker, even though we probably weren’t old enough to drink or like wine yet.
A few decades later with the ability to watch it on Disney+ 24/7, this movie is trending on social media. Between 90s fashion that’s making a comeback, movie inspired food and drinks, and party activities, there are a countless number of details from the film you can easily incorporate to achieve this theme.
If you’re looking for a fun theme for an upcoming celebration, there’s no better option than a Parent Trap themed party. Take inspiration and ideas to host a unique birthday party, nostalgic bachelorette, movie night, themed dinner, or reunion celebration if you happen to find your long lost twin.
Here’s everything you need for a Parent Trap themed party:
A Parent Trap Themed Venue
Backyard
Photo: Quality Stock Arts/shutterstock.com
Channel your inner camper because a backyard is a perfect venue option for this party. The outdoor space will provide ample room for games, entertainment, and a possible fencing fight!
Set up a bonfire area, string lights to accent the space, and maybe even tents to recreate the camping experience.
Vineyard
Photo: Lukasz Szwaj/shutterstock.com
Book space at your favorite local vineyard that will transport guests to Parker Knoll in Napa Valley. Schedule a day filled with wine tastings, food pairings, and horseback riding, if available.For a finishing touch to the wine theme, we love these Parker Knoll vineyard shirts from Etsy.
Book space at your favorite local vineyard that will transport guests to Parker Knoll in Napa Valley. Schedule a day filled with wine tastings, food pairings, and horseback riding, if available.
For a finishing touch to the wine theme, we love these Parker Knoll vineyard shirts from Etsy.
Boat
Photo: freevideophotoagency/shutterstock.com
The Queen Elizabeth was where Nick and Elizabeth hosted both their weddings and is the ultimate party venue that will leave a crowd impressed. Choose from hosting a candlelit dinner, English tea party, or a fun day on the water with friends for a Parent Trap inspired venue.
Parent Trap Themed Outfits
Meredith Blake Chic
Meredith was definitely the evil villain, but her style was absolutely amazing. Take inspiration from her black and white wardrobe for a chic party look complete with her signature red lipstick, gold jewelry accents, and perfectly styled hair.
Chessy Comfort
Oversized flannels, denim, and linen pants helped Chessy achieve this “off duty model” look before it became trendy today. If Meredith’s dresses and heels aren’t part of your vision for this theme, recreate Chessy’s west coast loungewear style for a comfortable alternative.
Elizabeth James Sophisticated
White, cream, and neutral pieces were the staples in Elizabeth's closet that we all wanted to emulate while watching. From dresses, to paint suits, and even when she wore sunglasses inside with a velcro roller in her hair, she still looked fabulous.
Nick Parker Casual
Dennis Quaid pulled off his rugged yet lovable look with Henley tees, jeans, and denim jackets. Anything you imagine the owner of a vineyard would wear is perfect to complete this look.
Hallie Parker vs. Annie James
If plaid, skirts, and headbands are in your closet, dressing like Annie will be a breeze. If a laid back look of t-shirts, denim jackets, and sneakers is more your taste, recreate a Hallie Parker outfit for the party.
Parent Trap Theme Food
Trout Crostini
Photo: Alessio Orru/shutterstock.com
Meredith refused to eat trout on the annual camping trip, but she probably would have loved smoked trout crostini. The perfect blend of cream cheese, spices, and smoked trout topped on toasted ciabatta is a delicious finger food you’re going to want to serve at this Parent Trap inspired celebration.
Chili and Cornbread
Photo: Teri Virbickis/shutterstock.com
Chessy always served the best comfort food for Hallie and Nick. Recreate her chili and cornbread recipe during your get together—there’s a reason it’s Hallie’s favorite!
Oreo and Peanut Butter Treats
Photo: Mehaniq/shutterstock.com
Oreos and peanut butter is a must for a Parent Trap party. Of course you can just dip the chocolate cream cookies into a jar of Skippy like they did in the movie, or you can get creative by incorporating this delicious flavor combination intp cupcakes, stuffed cookies, and even ice cream for the ultimate treat.
British Scones
Photo: urbanbuzz/shutterstock.com
A traditional treat from England is the perfect way to honor Annie James and her love for London at this party. Add in some fresh fruit and serve with butter and you’re good to go.
Parent Trap Themed Drinks
Wine
Photo: FreeProd33/shutterstock.com
This party isn’t complete without wine. You might not be able to get your hands on vino from Parker Knoll, but you can easily serve a variety of your favorite reds, whites, and rosés to bring you to the rolling hills of Napa Valley.
Did you know Nick and Elizabth’s wedding wine actually exists? We tracked down their favorite chardonnay, Where Dreams Have No End, available to purchase here.
Parent Trap Movie Inspired co*cktails
Photo: Brent Hofacker/shutterstock.com
Elizabeth and Meredith sipped on bloody marys and dry martinis while at The Stafford hotel bar prior to the big family reunion. Mix up these movie inspired drinks or hire a local bartender to serve guests.
Evian Bottled Waters
Photo: Mehaniq/shutterstock.com
Bottled water, but make it Meredith Blake approved. Just make sure there aren’t any salamanders crawling on them!
Lemonade
Photo: Alter-ego/shutterstock.com
This non-alcoholic drink option is a summer camp classic Hallie and Annie definitely enjoyed in the mess hall while at Camp Walden.
Entertainment Ideas
Photographer
Photo: Daniel Krason/shutterstock.com
The whole reason why Annie and Hallie knew they were twins was because of an old photograph, so it only makes sense for a photographer to capture the memories of this party, right? Especially if dressing like the characters, you’re going to want to remember every detail of this event.
Find a Photographer
Music
Photo: Silver Lining Entertainment
The throwback tunes featured in The Parent Trap movie soundtrack compliment the tone of the movie perfectly. Book a DJ or local cover band to play “L.O.V.E.” by Nat King Cole, “Bad to the Bone” by George Thorogood, and “This Will Be” by Natalie Cole as heard in the film.
Find a DJ
Limo
Photo: Classic Limo Bus Inc.
If transporting guests to and from a venue, travel in true Annie James fashion with a sleek, black limousine to safely drive guests between the locations.
Find a Limo
Temporary Tattoo Artist
Photo: LaineN/shutterstock.com
We all remember when Hallie pierced Annie’s ears in the isolation cabin. We don’t recommend giving piercings at home, but if you’re feeling rebellious, a temporary tattoo artist is the perfect option for a similar idea. Browse henna artists, airbrush, and more.
Find a Temporary Tattoo Artist
Movie Screen Rental
Photo: New Africa/shutterstock.com
Take your pick at watching the 1961 or 1998 version of The Parent Trap on the big screen for an immersive movie experience. Or, take inspiration from Hallie Parker and watch your favorite Leonardo DiCaprio film.
Find a Movie Screen Rental
Parent Trap Themed Games & Activities
Poker
Annie and Hallie’s head to head poker battle made us all want to learn how to play. Grab a deck of cards and try your hand at a few friendly games of poker for an exciting movie activity.
Tie Dye
Photo: dnaveh/shutterstock.com
We all remember “tie dye girl” aka Nicole from Camp Walden. How awesome was it when she pulled out Hallie’s duffle bag with ease? This minor character was mighty and gives the perfect activity for a Parent Trap themed party.
Camp Activities
Photo: Samuel Scranton/shutterstock.com
Organize a Camp Walden summer as seen in The Parent Trap. Bring back the days of capture the flag, bean bag toss, and s’more making for the ultimate summer camp experience.
Annie and Martin’s Handshake
Haven't you always wanted to learn the iconic handshake? Now you can! Print out the step-by-step instructions here for guests to take a whack at it.
Find more themed party ideas here on The Bash.
