We have now entered the post-Parade Day era of spring semester. While the weather continually gets nicer, every party pales in comparison to the Irish-themed revelry behind us. But with an original theme, accompanying playlist and special drinks to boot, you can transform any house party and revitalize your nightlife for the rest of spring semester. Here are a few ideas:

1. Mardi Gras

If you want a spring theme with a bit more craze, try planning your own Mardi Gras celebration. Mardi Gras was on March 4 this year, but with enough spirit and shiny beads, it can happen any time. The well-known color scheme consists of purple, green and gold, which means your costume can come straight from your closet. Think about providing accessories, like necklaces or masks, to help guests get into the excitement of the holiday. If you want to go all out, look up some traditional Mardi Gras drink recipes, like the Hurricane, for a traditional New Orleans touch.

2. Spring Equinox

Spring officially begins on March 20. It may still be below 30 degrees in Binghamton, but science is science. That gives you plenty of time to plan a flower-filled party with your friends as airy sprites. For attire, think do-it-yourself floral or leafy headbands and pastels (attention, dudes: It’s okay to wear florals). Consider trading generic dance music for fresh faces in pop like Ellie Goulding or Robyn.

3. Intense Patriotism

Independence Day may be months away, but this patriotic theme gives a taste of summer early. Break out the giant American flag you refused to let your roommate put up in the living room, and head to the clearance section of Party City for red, white and blue streamers. Outfit choices are relatively simple, but feel free to get creative with a stars-and-stripes dress or an Uncle Sam hat. If there’s one American pastime college students can relate to, it’s coming up with reasons to drink (see also: Santacon, Parade Day).

4. Wine and Cheese

This theme, just like its essential elements, will never go out of style. And who doesn’t love a party centered around food? Since we’re broke college students, feel free to stock up on boxed wine rather than the classiest bottle you can find. Also, a wine and cheese party is the perfect excuse to dress up and look snazzy. So dust off the dress you brought to school with you “just in case” of some formal event because sadly, this is it. Set up a platter of cheese and crackers and a few extra snacks to satiate drunk munchies, and you’re set.

5. Early 2000s

Decade trends, especially 1960s hippies or 1920s flappers, can make for great themed parties. Rather than falling back on what’s been done, go with what our generation has experienced and therefore knows best: the glory days of the new millennium. You may not think there’s much to work with, but remember the hideous (and simultaneously admirable) outfits of your favorite boy bands and pop singers? You too can achieve the 2000s look of Avril Lavigne’s loose neckties or Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake’s infamous denim on denim. Perhaps the best part of this theme is the music — bring on the ‘N Sync, Destiny’s Child and Outkast.

Use these tips to avoid stale themes for your parties this semester and ensure an excited, costumed crowd. Oh, and we expect an invite.