Kids’ birthday party ideas that will *instantly* make you the “cool” parent

Is it just us or are kids’ birthday parties getting more and more extravagant every year??? If you’re looking for sweet ways to make your little one’s big day feel special, you’re in the right place. Our team of experts dug through all the data and have rounded up eight trending kids’ party ideas (BTW… we wouldn’t blame you if you wanted to do one of these as an adult, too). 

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Customization stations

C'mon... who doesn't love something custom? From tote bags to denim jackets, this idea doubles as a party activity and a party favor. Find adorable patches, bows, and more and let their inner fashion designer shine!  

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For our fluffy friends

‍How cute is this… create a special stuffed animal adoption center and let every kid head home with a furry friend to call their own! From zoo-themed parties with plush lions and bears to a puppy pen for your dog-obsessed little one, this detail is totally memorable (and totally easy). Plus, if your little one loves animals, they can even add a “Donate to an animal shelter” button to their party Invitation with our Donation feature! 

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How charming!

Friendship bracelets and charm bracelets are the trend that keeps on trending. From traditional braided bracelets to DIY charm kits, this detail feels so personal. We also love finding local charm bracelet artists, like our friends at Charmed LA, to have a pro help you bring this vision to life! 

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Interactive eats 

‍Think make-your-own pizzas, colorful grazing boards (you’d be surprised how many veggies you can sneak in these), or personal cake decorating. BTW… the mini sheet cakes from Trader Joe’s are totally Evite-approved and make it so easy to give everyone a canvas to decorate! Grab fruit, candy, edible flowers, sprinkles… and let those mini chefs get to work! 

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Picture perfect

‍The internet's photo booth obsession has made its way to kids’ birthday parties in the form of all things picture perfect. Imagine wall displays with photos in the shape of the birthday kid’s age, or garlands with a picture of their face from each year of their life so far. Plus, we love the trend of giving disposable cameras to little ones to document weddings… and we’re all for doing the same at your kids’ birthday party! Let them capture the fun by leaving a few disposables out and about to get photos throughout the day. Printing photos is SO back, and pictures from their POV will be so sweet to look back on with them years later. 

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Sensory tables

‍Sensory tables are a great activity for our extra little ones, and they’re really evolving into what can be a statement piece at your party. Whether you’re experimenting with a chic monochromatic mix or a bold and funky combination, these are the ultimate controlled play situation. Try an outer space-themed mix with lots of cool rocks for your mini scientist or even go seasonal with summery sand or sparkly snow. Whatever theme you pick for your party, there’s sure to be a way to make a sensory bin that matches. 

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Embrace their inner artist

‍Not to nerd out on child psychology, but creative expression is SO good for your little ones! Try taking your kiddo to a local art supply store and letting them pick out a craft they love — from painting small wooden items to decorating succulent pots. This gives them agency over their party activity and teaches them a little something about what goes into planning their special day. Just don’t forget the smocks! 

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Outdoor movie night

‍Lights, camera action… the classic movie night is getting a modern revamp. Start by hanging up a sheet in the yard to create a projector screen at home, then take our word that inflatable furniture is about to be all the rage this year. Add some pillows and blankets, and if you’re feeling extra festive, prep a popcorn station to make it feel like a truly magical birthday theater.

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It’s time to party! Get started with one of our popular Kids’ Birthday Invitations.