14 activities for kids’ summer birthdays (that don’t require a pool)

Any parent knows it’s hard to entertain kids in the summer, let alone plan their “perfect” birthday party (it’s never perfect and that’s ok). For some, pools are the perfect screen-free, outdoor activity to bring kids together and have fun. But what about the pool-free folks? We’ve got you covered with plenty of ways to stay cool and celebrate the birthday kiddos this summer.

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1. Sprinkler Twister

It’s easy to elevate everyone’s favorite childhood game into a hilarious outdoor event full of slips and giggles. Place a sprinkler next to your Twister mat to upgrade your own or buy the official Twister Splash.

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2. Water balloon baseball

This one is for the little league all-stars. Prepare a bucket of water balloons and grab a couple of plastic bats for kids to practice their swing. That hit is about to get a lot more refreshing!

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3. Slip ’n slide

Slip ’n slide is a classic for a reason! There are tons of options online to choose from—or you can build your own with a plastic sheet or tarp and a sprinkler.

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4. Sidewalk painting

If you’ve got a pint-sized Picasso, sidewalk art is a great way to entertain them outside. Mix together equal parts cornstarch, water, and washable paint to give kids the perfect material for sidewalks or stone art. 

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5. Nature scavenger hunt

Put together a scavenger hunt for things kids can easily find in the backyard or neighborhood. You can make your own sheet of items to hunt for or even turn it into nature bingo with prizes! 

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6. Fairy house building

Constructing fairy houses is the perfect activity for woodland, magic, or garden themed parties. Collect leaves, twigs, moss, and flowers as supplies for your enchanting little architects, or have them search for their own materials before building.

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7. Pirate treasure hunt

Treasure hunts are a guaranteed source of fun for birthday kids and all their mates! You can hide chocolate coins (beware potential melting!) or plastic jewels in a sand pit for kids to collect.

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8. Donut on a string

Turn birthday treats into party feats! This competition is hilarious to watch and the participation trophy? A delicious donut. Check out this video to see how it works.

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9. Bird feeder decorating

A party favor every home will cherish? Yes please! A pack of wooden birdhouses and paints are all the kids need to get started. Pick up smocks or tell your guests to wear something they can get dirty on the Invitation.

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10. Clothesline camping

Give your birthday kid a camping experience without the hassle of a tent. Hang sheets from a clothesline to create the perfect outdoor party fort. Adding battery-powered fairy lights makes it even more magical! Fill the day with Camp Birthday activities like a “hike” through the neighborhood or local park, or s’mores and hot dogs by the fire.  

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11. Sidewalk obstacle course

No construction needed! You can use chalk and household items to create an obstacle course for kids to spin, hop, run, and tire themselves out. A true win-win.

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12. Outdoor performances

Kids can put on a performance right in the backyard. Bring out a speaker for karaoke or let kids show off their special skills with a talent show. Hot tip: Patios make great stages and blankets are the perfect curtains!

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13. Ice excavations

Here is a challenge kids can conquer together. Freeze toys in ice and have the kids get to work excavating and saving the day! The only supplies you need are kid-safe tools and warm water. If you're worried that your child won't like seeing their toys trapped in ice, buy toys from the dollar store and guests can take what they uncover home as party favors.

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14. Water blaster freeze tag

Combine two classic summer favorites (freeze tag and water fights) to make the ultimate birthday water game. Make sure your guests bring swimsuits and towels for this one!

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Summer heat and endless days are all kids need for a birthday full of fun. But fair warning… any of these activities may just make you the coolest family on the block 😎 

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Your little one’s perfect invite is waiting. Browse Kids’ Birthday Invitations now.