A retirement party is a significant milestone and a wonderful party to plan and have. Your theme could be something that the Retiree likes to do, for instance: golf, tennis or basketball. On the invites you could place a picture of the retiree doing his favorite past time and say something "George is going to have a lot more time to .......................... Please come join us to celebrate." This could be an office party or at someone’s home. If it's golf, carry this theme throughout the party with the decorations etc. Be sure to include the co-workers who know him/her so well. Ask co-workers and friends to say a few nice words. Begin this toast with a humorous story. You could also have friends and family write a poem about the retiree and present these to him/her as a gift and put them in a scrapbook. The retiree's employer should provide a sincere gift but friends can give humorous gifts. If held in an office, this party might be catered but if at home a nice buffet would be lovely with: roast beef, chicken, ham, spaghetti and meat balls, lasagna, macaroni and cheese and all the side dishes including: salads, veggies, fruits and breads. Have plenty of desserts and of course a cake with a caricature of the retiree on it.