35 Fun Things To Do For a Kids Birthday
Planning a kid’s birthday party can be both exciting and overwhelming.
With so many options and ideas floating around, it’s easy to feel lost in the sea of possibilities. Whether you’re aiming for a simple celebration at home or an extravagant bash at a special venue, the key is to ensure the day is filled with joy, laughter, and memorable moments for your child and their friends. In this blog post, we’ve curated a list of 35 fun and creative activities that will make your kid’s birthday party a smashing success. From adventurous outdoor games to engaging indoor crafts, we’ve got something for every interest and budget.
So, get ready to dive into a world of birthday fun and find the perfect way to celebrate your little one’s special day!
Treasure Hunt Adventure
Create a treasure map and hide clues around your house or backyard. Kids can work together to solve riddles and find hidden treasures, such as small toys or candy. This activity not only entertains but also encourages teamwork and problem-solving.
DIY Craft Station
Set up a craft station with various supplies like markers, stickers, glitter, and colored paper. Provide instructions for simple crafts such as making friendship bracelets, decorating picture frames, or creating their own party hats. This allows kids to get creative and take home a personalized souvenir.
Inflatable Bounce House
Rent an inflatable bounce house for the day. These are always a hit and provide hours of energetic fun. Many rental companies offer themed bounce houses, so you can choose one that fits your party’s theme.
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Themed Costume Party
Choose a fun theme like superheroes, pirates, princesses, or favorite TV characters. Encourage kids to come dressed in costumes, and plan activities and games around the theme. This adds an extra layer of excitement and immersion to the party.
Outdoor Movie Night
Set up a projector and screen in your backyard for an outdoor movie night. Provide comfy seating with blankets and pillows, and serve popcorn, candy, and drinks. Choose a family-friendly movie and let the kids enjoy a cinematic experience under the stars.
Face Painting and Temporary Tattoos
Hire a face painter or set up a DIY face painting station with non-toxic paints. Offer a variety of designs, from animals to superheroes. Temporary tattoos are another fun and safe way for kids to express themselves with different designs.
Science Party
Organize a series of fun and easy science experiments. You can create slime, launch baking soda and vinegar rockets, or make homemade volcanoes. This not only entertains but also educates, sparking curiosity and interest in science.
Obstacle Course
Set up an obstacle course in your backyard or local park. Use items like hula hoops, cones, ropes, and tunnels. Kids can race against the clock or each other, navigating the course while burning off energy and having fun.
Cooking or Baking Party
Host a mini cooking or baking session where kids can make their own pizzas, decorate cupcakes, or assemble fun snacks. Provide chef hats and aprons to make them feel like real chefs. This hands-on activity is both engaging and rewarding.
Animal Encounter
Hire a local petting zoo or exotic animal handler to bring animals to your party. Kids can interact with and learn about different animals, such as rabbits, goats, reptiles, or birds. This unique experience is sure to be a highlight and create lasting memories. These activities cover a range of interests and energy levels, ensuring there’s something for every child to enjoy on their special day.
Magic Show
Hire a magician to perform a magic show. Kids love the wonder and surprise of magic tricks, and many magicians can tailor their performances to be age-appropriate and interactive, involving the kids in the magic.
Outdoor Water Games
If the weather is warm, organize water games like a water balloon fight, slip ‘n slide, or sprinkler fun. Set up a kiddie pool with various water toys for younger children. Just make sure to have towels and dry clothes on hand!
Puppet Show
Set up a small puppet theater and either hire a puppeteer or put on a puppet show yourself. You can even have a craft session where kids create their own puppets and then perform short skits.
Mini Sports Tournament
Organize a mini sports tournament with games like soccer, relay races, or tug-of-war. Provide small trophies or medals for the winners. This is great for active kids who enjoy a bit of friendly competition.
Dance Party
Create a dance floor with colorful lights and a playlist of the kids’ favorite songs. Hire a DJ or simply use a good sound system. Include dance games like freeze dance or limbo to keep the energy high.
Storytelling Session
Invite a professional storyteller or a local author to read stories and engage the kids with captivating tales. Provide comfy seating with cushions and blankets to create a cozy atmosphere.
Scavenger Hunt
Plan a scavenger hunt with themed items hidden around your yard or home. Give each child a list of items to find and small prizes for completing the hunt. This activity is great for keeping kids engaged and excited.
Karaoke Party
Set up a karaoke machine and let the kids sing their favorite songs. Provide props like microphones, hats, and sunglasses to make them feel like real stars. This is a fun way for kids to express themselves and enjoy music.
Art Party
Hire a local artist to lead an art class or set up easels and paints for a free painting session. Provide canvases, paints, and brushes, and let the kids create their own masterpieces to take home.
LEGO Building Party
Create a LEGO building station with various sets and loose bricks. Organize building challenges or just let the kids use their imagination to create whatever they like. This activity is perfect for sparking creativity and collaboration. These additional activities offer even more variety and excitement, ensuring that your child’s birthday party is filled with fun and memorable moments.
Carnival Games
Set up a mini carnival with games like ring toss, bean bag toss, and a duck pond. Rent or create a prize booth with small toys and treats for winners. This can create a fun, festive atmosphere.
Superhero Training Camp
Design a series of “training” activities that mimic superhero challenges, such as obstacle courses, strength tests (using soft weights), and agility drills. Provide capes and masks for all participants.
Escape Room
Create a kid-friendly escape room with puzzles and clues to solve within a set time. Themes can include pirate treasure hunts, mystery detective cases, or space adventures. This activity promotes teamwork and problem-solving.
Balloon Twisting
Hire a balloon artist to make balloon animals and shapes for the kids. Alternatively, set up a station with balloon twisting supplies and instructions for the kids to try it themselves.
Gardening Party
Provide small pots, soil, and a variety of seeds or seedlings. Kids can plant their own mini gardens and decorate the pots. This is a great hands-on activity that teaches about nature and responsibility.
Photo Booth
Create a themed photo booth with fun props, costumes, and a backdrop. Use a camera or smartphone with a tripod and let the kids take turns posing and taking photos. Provide printed copies or digital versions as party favors.
Yoga or Dance Class
Hire a children’s yoga or dance instructor to lead a class. This can be a calming activity that promotes mindfulness and physical activity, or a high-energy dance session to get the kids moving.
Nerf Battle
Organize a Nerf gun battle with various challenges and obstacles. Provide safety goggles and create rules to ensure everyone has fun safely. This is great for kids who love action and adventure.
Pottery Painting
Set up a pottery painting station with pre-made pottery items like mugs, plates, or figurines. Provide paints and brushes, and let the kids create their own unique designs. Arrange for the pottery to be glazed and fired afterward.
Pet Party
If you have pets, involve them in the party with supervised pet interactions. Alternatively, invite a pet therapy organization to bring well-trained animals for the kids to meet and play with.
Campfire and S’mores
If you have a safe outdoor space, set up a campfire or fire pit. Roast marshmallows and make s’mores, tell stories, and sing campfire songs. This creates a cozy, memorable experience for kids.
Mini Golf Course
Set up a mini golf course in your backyard or rent a portable mini golf setup. Provide clubs and balls, and let the kids play through the course. This is a fun activity that can be enjoyed by kids of all ages.
Board Game Tournament
Host a board game tournament with a variety of games suitable for different age groups. Set up multiple stations with classic and modern games, and offer small prizes for the winners.
DIY Spa Day
Create a spa experience with activities like DIY facials, manicures, and pedicures. Provide comfy robes, headbands, and a selection of nail polishes and skin care products. This can be a relaxing and fun activity, especially for older kids.
Science Show
Hire a scientist or a science show performer to conduct exciting experiments and demonstrations. Kids can watch amazing science tricks and even participate in some hands-on experiments. This is both educational and entertaining. These additional ideas cover a wide range of interests and can be tailored to fit various themes and party sizes, ensuring a fun and memorable birthday celebration for any child.