Are divorce parties a thing? That’s a resounding yes! Do you have to sit around and mope if you are recently divorced or going through one? Absolutely not! Divorce parties are a way to mark the end of one chapter and embrace the start of a new one, whether that means letting loose with friends, enjoying a bit of self-care, or stepping boldly into a fresh start. 

From lively opportunities to drink and dance the night away to healing retreats for your body and mind, we’ve put together a list of unique and fun ideas to celebrate this transformative moment.

Benefits of a Fantastic Divorce Party

Divorce parties are a way to mark the end of one chapter and the start of another. Whether your divorce was smooth or difficult, these gatherings can help turn a tough time into something positive. They’re also a chance for friends and family to show their love and support, helping you move forward with optimism and a brand new perspective.

10 of the Best Divorce Party Ideas in NYC

Check out our top picks for making your divorce party unforgettable in the best way possible.

1. Cut Loose at a Dance Party Venue

A lively dance party in NYC is just what the doctor ordered, so grab your besties and head to a hot dance spot. Dance your favorite tunes and enjoy being carefree. Don’t forget to get someone to photograph you and your support group (friends) cutting loose. Afterward, you can post the pics on your socials, so you can look back on them with fond memories. 

2. Take a Divorce Party Hot Tub Boat Tour 

Even the most amicable of divorces can put you on edge. Why not melt your stress away by relaxing during Sea the City’s Premiere Hot Tub Boat Tour? It’s BYOB, so you can bring your own beer, wine or hard cider. You’ll see iconic landmarks and the NYC skyline while you float along the Hudson. Celebrate with Sea the City’s complimentary personalized marquee boards for private hot tub tours—just share your message during checkout. There are two tubs that seat up to 20 guests, so grab your friends and get ready to have the time of your life!

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Book your Divorce Party Hot Tub Boat Cruise in NYC right now! 

3. Throw Some Pottery at a Studio

Art helps you find healing and joy—which if you are a divorcee in training, you will find super helpful. Therefore, try your hand at throwing pottery to create gorgeous pieces. It’s loads of fun, and you’ll find yourself in better spirits, especially when you see your “divorce pieces” decorating your home. 

4. Celebrate with Views at a Rooftop Bar

You’ll find anything from fancy brunches to some of the most inventive mocktails and cocktails at rooftop bars in the big Apple. To name a few standouts, there is the pulsing music of The Refinery Rooftop in Midtown to the rooftop pool and bar at the Gansevoort Hotel in the Meatpacking District. Whichever you choose though, you have gorgeous panoramic views that will help you forget about anything related to the “D” word.

5. Host a ‘Death Do Us Part’ Celebration

If your divorce didn’t end on the greatest of terms, you may like the Death Do Us Part theme. This theme is kind of dark, but it’s a perfect opportunity to tap into the dark humor of your circumstances and move on. One good idea to make your divorce party a reality is to rent a themed event space. While sending out invitations, request that the guests dress in all black. For the party, have a black divorce cake and place settings. 

6. Sip and Savor at a NYC Wine Pairing Event

Now that you are consciously uncoupled, it’s time to try new things. One way to broaden your horizons is through sumptuous wine pairings. Upscale restaurant and wine bar Amélie is good for groups, and they will help refine your palate with their prix fixe dinner wine pairing. Everything on the menu is delish, and you’ll find out from the experts which vino pairs best with your food picks.

7. Jot Down Some Notes at a NYC Fashion Show

The best revenge after divorce, they say, is living your best life. If you’re ready for a makeover, attend a few fashion shows to see what’s trending. Fashion Week happens the first week in February, but NYC hosts shows all year long. Pair the experience with a new hairstyle and shopping trip to refresh your wardrobe. It’s a good opportunity to reinvent yourself with a bold, fresh style and build your post-divorce brand.

8. Relax and Rejuvenate with Friends at a Spa Retreat

Divorce can be an emotional rollercoaster, making you feel as if your world is turned upside down. Enter the spa retreat, an oasis of calm that helps you find balance and regain your sense of self. Spending time with friends in a serene environment allows you to relax, rejuvenate, and enjoy some much-needed pampering. Whether it’s a massage, facial, or swimming in the pool, a spa retreat offers a comforting escape that revitalizes your spirit.

9. Enjoy Nature in the City with an Outdoor Picnic

If you’re troubled from your divorce, or pretty much anything, a scenic and tranquil picnic outdoors will make your worries go away. New York City is packed with stunning parks that offer ample outdoor picnic spots. 

Some top parks to spread your blanket and enjoy dining alfresco include:

• Four Freedoms State Park: This picturesque park on Roosevelt Island boasts plenty of picnic space and excellent views of Long Island City, the East River, and the Manhattan skyline.
• Carl Schurz Park: This family-friendly park in the Upper East Side of Manhattan features plenty of areas for picnicking. It’s also home to the stately Gracie Mansion, which is one of Manhattan’s oldest wood structures in existence.  
• Turtle Park: This wonderful park located within iconic Central Park offers plenty of green to enjoy a tranquil picnic and picnic games. It is also one of the best places to take photos in Central Park.

10. Indulge in a Mini Vacation with a Luxury Weekend Getaway

Sometimes the best way to hit reset is by stepping away for a change of scenery for a while. A luxury weekend getaway offers the perfect chance to escape, explore, and focus on yourself. Whether it’s a luxurious boutique hotel in the city or a quiet countryside retreat, you can enjoy delicious food, stunning views, and the freedom to do exactly what you want. Bring a few close friends or go solo—this mini adventure is all about celebrating your next chapter.

Join Us for a Once-in-a-Lifetime Divorce Party Cruise in NYC!

Our Divorce Party in NYC Cruise is ideal for you and your friends to celebrate your new beginnings in a unique and unforgettable way. We also offer a variety of other hot tub cruises, including birthdays, romantic date nights, fall foliage, sunset cruises, and more. Be sure to book your voyage early to get your chosen date! 

Book a Divorce Party Hot Tub Cruise today!

Alternatively, your group can rent one of the two hot tubs available.

FAQ

Is it appropriate to have a divorce party?

Some people may consider divorce parties controversial, but they are rising in popularity as more people embrace them as a way to move forward. After all, we celebrate major milestones like birthdays, graduations, and weddings, so why not a divorce? 

What do you do at a divorce party? 

Whether you want to shoot paintballs at your wedding dress or tuxedo, shred your marriage license, or share a night of wine and laughter with close friends, divorce parties can be a fun way to celebrate. They also offer an empowering way to start fresh or support a divorcee through their transition.

What do you call a party after a divorce?

Naturally, the event is called a divorce party. It’s a celebration of starting fresh and moving on after a marriage ends.

Who throws a divorce party?

The newly divorced person typically organizes the event. That said, friends or family can also host it to show support.

Are divorce parties common?

Divorce parties are growing in popularity as more people learn about them, often surprised to find they exist. Their cathartic and uplifting nature is making them a go-to way to embrace new beginnings.

Do you bring a gift to a divorce party?

Gifts aren’t required, but thoughtful items like self-care products, funny books, or wine are always appreciated.

Who started divorce parties?

We can thank Christine Gallagher for the rise of divorce parties. In 2003, Christine threw a party to cheer up a friend who was left by her fiancé. The party was so therapeutic for her friend that it inspired Christine to write a divorce party planning manual and eventually became an official divorce party planner.