shindig

A small party, not quite full scale. Generally a shindig consists of 5-20 people hanging out at the host's house, but they may be held at other locations such as a beach. Shindigs almost always involve alcoholic beverages, usually beer. Often, marijuana is smoked as well.

A shindig usually does not escalate into a large full scale party because it is meant to be a low key night, avoiding any complications such as cleaning up vomit, unwanted guests, picking up trash the rude guests leave lying wherever they drop it, putting everything back in its proper place, eliciting attention fom neighbors and local law enforcement, etc.

A party of get- together of some sort.
OR, can also be spazmatronic dance

a party on the low down, or just people randomly hanging out but after it's been planned

A lively party, particularly one celebrating an event. Often includes dances.

a party; a get togeather
shindig is the new party

A small gathering where alcohol is involved... something you wouldn't quite call a "party" but something a little bit more than hangin out with your sister and your dog and a bottle of rum. Maximum number of people for a shindig: no more than 12, otherwise it's a small party.

to party on down