A party is a gathering of people who have been invited by a host for the purposes of socializing, conversation, or recreation. A party will typically feature food and beverages, and often music and dancing as well.

Some parties are held in honor of a specific person, day, or event (e.g., a birthday party, a Super Bowl party, or a St. Patrick’s Day party). Parties of this kind are often called celebrations.

A party is not necessarily a private occasion. Public parties are sometimes held in restaurants, pubs or bars, and people attending such parties may be charged an admission fee by the host.

Types of parties

Birthday party

Dinner party

Tea party

Christmas caroling party

Reception

 Dances and balls

Block party

Showers

Costume or fancy dress party

Surprise party

Parties for teenagers and young adults

Singles dance party and mixer

Fundraising party

Graduation party

Marriage-related parties

Housewarming party

Welcome party

Farewell party

Cast party

Pre-party

After-party