Birthday parties are extra-special events for kids. While having a birthday cake and ice cream at home is always a good idea, there are many other places to hold a birthday party that will make the event even more memorable. All it takes is a little extra planning.
Age
The most important thing to consider is the age of the children attending. While parents may be eager to celebrate an infant's first birthday, he is probably too young for a party at the local fast-food restaurant. Likewise, a pre-teen has probably outgrown the pizza parlor with the ball pit and climbing apparatus.
Interests
The next important consideration is the interests of the birthday boy or girl and the guests. Mom and grandma may have dreamed of a princess party, complete with crowns and wands, but it won't come off well if she is more interested in soccer. Dad and grandpa may want a hunting party, but their boy may be more interested in video games.
Budget
An equally important consideration is budget. While there are storefront companies that specialize in children's birthday parties, they can be quite expensive. If money is an issue, consider whether you can pick and choose which of the party company's features you can use.
You may want to do similar activities at another venue. For example, have a pop star theme at the local bowling alley by bringing dollar-store jewelry and feather boas and having the guests dress up between frames. Have a military theme at a picnic by bringing the Super Soakers along with camouflage tableware.
Travel Time
When choosing a party destination, consider the travel time involved. It is likely you will be transporting many of the items and guests yourself, so consider whether the event will be worth the distance, in case there is a forgotten item or if the children get restless.
Season
Depending on the region you live in, the weather can be a major factor in choosing a party destination. A picnic in a local park can be wonderful or terrible, depending on local weather. Be sure there is an alternative in case of last-minute weather changes.
Also, consider the season and the venue. A zoo party is delightful when the baby animals are arriving. However, in the heat of summer, the animals may be sluggish or hidden away in their cooler dens. An autumn nature center party can be glorious in the fall colors, or a big mud fight once the rainy season hits.
Uniqueness
While every birthday party is special because of the guest of honor, it does help to use imagination when planning a party. If everyone else has a pirate party or a princess party, consider going to a science museum instead.
Try to think outside the box a little. For example, consider miniature golf or go-karts. Perhaps the little girls will enjoy visiting a nail salon. A tour of a bakery or a chocolate factory may offset the cost of a cake. Visiting a ceramics studio may take the place of party games and goody bags.
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