Guide to Norwegian Cruise Line’s Glow Party Theme Night (Formerly White Hot Party)
NCL Theme Night Glow Party on Norwegian Escape
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is known for its Freestyle Cruising, allowing guests to enjoy their vacation without rigid schedules or dress codes. However, one must-attend event onboard is the NCL Theme Night, featuring the legendary Glow Party—formerly known as the White Hot Party.
This guide covers everything you need to know about NCL’s Glow Party, including what to expect, what to wear, and how to make the most of this electrifying event at sea.
What Are NCL Theme Nights?
Theme nights are one of the most exciting events on board, offering passengers a chance to let loose and immerse themselves in a vibrant party atmosphere. The Glow Party, the most well-known of these themed nights, turns the ship into a glowing, pulsating celebration under the stars. Featuring electrifying music from top DJs, dazzling neon lights, and an infectious energy that spreads across the deck, this event is designed to create a nightclub-like experience at sea. Live entertainers, including dancers in illuminated costumes, enhance the visual spectacle, while guests decked out in glowing accessories and neon outfits become part of the show themselves. Whether you're dancing to high-energy beats, enjoying specialty cocktails, or simply soaking in the lively ambiance, the Glow Party is an unforgettable highlight of any NCL cruise.
Does Norwegian Cruise Line Have Theme Nights?
Yes! In addition to the Glow Party, Norwegian Cruise Line offers a variety of exciting theme nights, each designed to transport guests into a unique and immersive atmosphere.
70s, 80s, or 90s Throwback Night – Step back in time with a retro-themed party featuring the best hits from past decades. Whether it’s disco fever from the 70s, the neon-soaked pop anthems of the 80s, or the unforgettable beats of the 90s, these nights are packed with nostalgic music, themed cocktails, and a lively dance floor where guests can show off their best moves.
Latin Fiesta Night – A sizzling celebration of Latin culture, this high-energy night brings the heat with pulsating salsa, merengue, reggaeton, and bachata beats. A live music band or DJs set the tone, while guests sip on tropical cocktails and dance the night away. It's the perfect way to experience the lively rhythms and passion of Latin music.
Disco Wonderland – For those who love the glamour and glitz of the disco era, this themed night transforms the ship into a Studio 54-inspired paradise. Expect shimmering disco balls, funky beats, groovy dance-offs, and plenty of retro flair. Guests are encouraged to dress in their best 70s attire, complete with bell bottoms, sequins, and platform shoes, to fully embrace the throwback vibe.
Each of these theme nights offers a chance to escape into a different world of music, dance, and entertainment, making every evening on board a unique experience.
How Do I Find Out If My Cruise Has a Theme Night?
Theme nights are featured on most NCL cruises, though availability varies by ship and itinerary. To confirm:
Check the NCL Freestyle Daily, a printed daily activity schedule delivered to your stateroom.
Use the NCL Mobile App for the latest schedules.
Ask crew members or visit Guest Services for event details.
Visit Freestyle Travelers to browse past Freestyle Dailies and get an idea of what theme nights might be available on your cruise.
Are NCL Theme Nights Free?
Yes! All NCL theme nights, including the Glow Party, are completely free and included in your cruise fare. These events take place year-round on most sailings and are open to guests of all ages, including kids. There are no extra costs for participation—just show up, dress for the theme, and enjoy the party atmosphere. Whether you're dancing under the neon lights or soaking in the high-energy entertainment, NCL’s theme nights provide an unforgettable experience at no additional charge.
What to Expect at NCL’s Glow Party (Formerly White Hot Party)
The NCL Glow Party is an interactive dance event typically held on the pool deck or in a ship’s main entertainment venue. Here’s what to expect:
Live DJ spinning club-style hits
UV black lights and neon décor
Dancers and performers in glowing costumes
Signature cocktails available for purchase
Crowd participation, dancing, and party games
What Time Does the Glow Party Start?
Most NCL theme nights begin between 9 PM and 11 PM, running until midnight or later. The Freestyle Daily will confirm the exact time on your sailing.
Do All Norwegian Cruises Have a Glow Party?
Most larger and newer NCL ships, such as Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Getaway, and Norwegian Bliss, are known for their vibrant nightlife and high-energy Glow Party experiences. These ships feature expansive outdoor deck spaces or dedicated nightclub venues where guests can dance under neon lights, enjoy DJ-led music, and fully immerse themselves in the party atmosphere. With cutting-edge sound and lighting systems, these ships deliver some of the most electrifying theme nights at sea. Onboard the new class of ships like Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima, guests will find Disco Wonderland held in the ships immersive nightclub theater.
On the other hand, smaller and older ships, like Norwegian Star and Norwegian Dawn, may still offer theme nights but with a more intimate setting and potentially a different lineup of entertainment. While the Glow Party might not be available on every sailing, these ships often host other exciting events, such as throwback dance nights or Latin-themed parties, tailored to their venue sizes, entertainment options, and guest demographics.
Because theme night offerings can vary by ship and itinerary, it's always best to check your specific cruise schedule in advance. Whether you are taking a cruise vacation on Pride of America or Norwegian Breakaway, you can confirm event details by reviewing the Freestyle Daily, using the NCL app, or speaking with onboard staff. For past event schedules and more cruise insights, visit Freestyle Travelers.
What to Wear to NCL’s Glow Party
Dressing up for NCL’s Theme Night is part of the fun! Guests are encouraged to wear neon colors or white, which glow under black lights for the dance party.
Glow Party Outfit Ideas
Women: Neon-colored tops, skirts, rompers, or leggings
Men: Bright neon t-shirts or casual outfits with light-up accessories
Extras: Glow-in-the-dark bracelets, necklaces, sunglasses, or LED wearables
How to Plan for NCL’s Theme Night
How Do I Know If My Cruise Has a Glow Party?
Check the Freestyle Daily once onboard for the latest event schedules.
Use the NCL app to view upcoming activities and theme nights.
Ask crew members or the cruise director for real-time updates on entertainment schedules.
Visit Freestyle Travelers to browse Freestyle Dailies and get an idea of past activity schedules.
Where Can I Check Theme Night Schedules Before Sailing?
The NCL app provides updated schedules once you’re onboard.
Check Freestyle Travelers for previous cruise schedules to get a sense of what to expect on your sailing.
FAQs – NCL Theme Nights & Glow Party
How Many Formal Nights Are on Norwegian Cruises?
None are required, though specialty dining venues may encourage smart casual or business casual dress.
Are There White Parties on NCL Cruises?
Some ships still feature White Hot Night, where guests are encouraged to pack your white outfit. However, most NCL ships have transitioned to the Glow Party format.
What Is the Dress Code for Norwegian Cruises?
Casual attire is acceptable across the ship and in the main dining rooms, but smart casual is recommended for some upscale specialty restaurants.
How Strict Is the NCL Dress Code?
While casual wear is fine, avoid swimwear in dining areas and follow suggested attire for dress-up theme nights.
Which Itineraries Have the Most Theme Nights?
The number of theme nights can depend on the length of the cruise, the ship, and the itinerary. Caribbean sailings, especially those that visit Great Stirrup Cay, Cozumel, or other popular tropical destinations, typically feature the most lively nightlife and a higher number of theme nights. Cruises on larger ships like Norwegian Epic and Norwegian Joy often have multiple themed events throughout the voyage, giving guests more opportunities to experience the Glow Party, throwback nights, and Latin dance parties. Meanwhile, shorter sailings, Europe sailings, or itineraries on smaller ships may have fewer theme nights, so it's always a good idea to check your specific sailing in advance.
