If you're planning on throwing a party, why not let loose and have a monkey theme, such as "Time to Monkey Around" or "There's Always Room for Monkey Business"? Fun theme parties don't have to be just for children's birthdays anymore. Follow these simple instructions to throwing the perfect monkey party.

Food:

Whenever possible, include bananas in your recipes. This is particularly easy when you're planning desserts. Consider having a chocolate fountain and providing marshmallows, graham crackers, pretzels and fruit, such as strawberries and bananas, to dunk in it. Or, you may want to have a banana split station, where guests can layer ice cream, whipped cream, chocolate or caramel sauce, and toppings ranging from maraschino cherries to mini M & M's on top of two bananas. For a healthier option, many people love fruit skewers, which are delicious and easy to make.

Room Decorations:

Make your party feel like a jungle by hanging vines and large leaves throughout the room. Whether you hang small monkeys from the vines or place inflatable monkeys near the entrance, be sure these cute creatures take center stage at your party. (Monkey balloons are also available and can make great table centerpieces.) You may even want to have a dedicated corner where guests can take pictures with stuffed monkeys. If you do this, it may be best to provide cameras for guests to use, and then you can post the pictures online for everyone to share, print, and enjoy.

Table Decorations:

Monkey plates are available at numerous party stores, and are generally shaped like the head of a monkey. Combine these with yellow and brown silverware and napkins. You can also purchase ice molds in the form of bananas and include these in your beverages. Finally, include a centerpiece in the middle of every table. These can be as simple or elaborate as you'd like, from a simple palm tree with bananas to a stuffed monkey in a barrel. (This is a particularly cute idea when the monkey is wearing a clever name tag, such as King Kong for a tiny monkey.)

Favors:

Everyone likes to go home with a reminder of the wonderful time they had at the party. If you had photo ops at your party, send guests with a monkey picture frame to be filled later. Other ideas include banana scented candles or soaps or monkey cupcakes or cookies (individually wrapped and tied with a yellow or brown ribbon).