Maybe your prom was magical.
Maybe it was awkward.
Maybe you skipped it entirely.
Or maybe you look back at the photos and have some serious questions about the decisions being made.
Whatever your prom story, Bonfire’s Big Night Out is giving Chico a do-over.
On Saturday, Sept. 19, we’re turning Party on the Patio at Laxson Auditorium into a retro prom before Bonfire Storytelling: Big Night Out Part III—Dance! Dance! Dance!
And yes, you can absolutely dress the part.
What Do You Wear to a Retro Prom Party?
There really aren’t rules here.
Go full ’80s with puffed sleeves, sequins, satin, ruffles and enormous hair. Pull out a skinny tie or a gloriously dated suit. Try a ’90s slip dress. Mix decades. Find the most outrageous accessory on the rack.
Or just come as you are.
Retro prom attire is encouraged, not required. The goal is to have fun with it.
Before you buy something new, this might be the perfect excuse to go treasure hunting around Chico.
Where to Thrift Your Retro Prom Look in Chico
Sixth St. Secondhand
For a true throwback treasure hunt, start at Sixth St. Secondhand. This neighborhood shop is packed with nostalgic finds and is particularly fun for ’90s-inspired pieces and accessories.
Follow Sixth St. Secondhand on Instagram
363 E. Sixth St., Chico
Thrifty Bargain
If your strategy is to dig until you strike retro gold, Thrifty Bargain gives you plenty to work with. It’s one of Chico’s larger thrift stores, with frequent restocks and lots of variet —ideal when you’re hunting for something unexpected on a budget.
Follow Thrifty Bargain Chico on Instagram
2432 Esplanade, Chico
The Arc Thrift Store
Another classic Chico treasure hunt is The Arc Thrift Store. Along with the possibility of finding that perfectly over-the-top prom piece, shopping here supports The Arc of Butte County’s community programs.
Follow The Arc Store on Instagram
2020 Park Ave., Chico
Gold City Vintage
If your retro prom vision leans more curated than thrift-store treasure hunt, Gold City Vintage is worth a stop. Think nostalgia, statement pieces and plenty of inspiration for building a look that feels intentionally retro.
Follow Gold City Vintage Chico on Instagram
Discovery Shoppe
For one more good old-fashioned treasure hunt, head downtown to Discovery Shoppe. The volunteer-operated shop has been part of Chico since 1959 and carries gently used clothing along with vintage items and plenty of unexpected finds. Even better, proceeds are given back to local organizations and charities.
Visit Discovery Shoppe
315 Flume St., Chico
Then Give That Outfit Somewhere to Go
Once you’ve found your look, meet us outside Laxson Auditorium at 6 p.m. Sept. 19 for Party on the Patio.
There’ll be music, dancing, local food trucks, drinks and plenty of retro prom energy before we head inside for Bonfire.
At 7:30 p.m., Bonfire Storytelling: Big Night Out Part III—Dance! Dance! Dance! takes over Laxson with five-minute stories inspired by dance, a live house band, judges, cash prizes and whatever else the night decides to throw at us.
Bring your date. Bring your friends. Bring the person who actually went to prom with you all those years ago. Or come make a completely new prom memory.
Party on the Patio is free. Tickets are required for Bonfire’s Big Night Out at 7:30 p.m.