Let's face it, birthdays are awesome no matter what age you're turning.
From the excitement of ripping open presents to the sugary high of eating cake, there's nothing quite like celebrating the day you were born.
But let's be real, not all birthday parties are created equal. If you're tired of the same old routine, we've got some party ideas that are guaranteed to be a blast for everyone, whether you're turning 8 or 80. Get ready to throw the party of the year
Planning a Party For All Ages
Planning a party for multiple ages and stages involves a little bit of extra planning to make sure the event goes smoothly.
Glance over the guest list and note how many kids, toddlers, babies, teens, and adults might be in attendance. Knowing your audience will help you plan a party that'll knock everyone's socks off. Now that you have a good idea of who you're inviting, here's a few tips on making the party enjoyable for everyone.
Hire a Babysitter
This is one of the best birthday party ideas we can give you!
As much fun as your party will be, parents won't be able to fully relax if they're wondering what mischief their kid is up to. Having a designated caregiver on hand will allow everyone to let loose and have a blast.
You can pay a friend, neighbor, or relative who's great with kids to hang out with them with some toys or a craft, or hire a professional. Event babysitting companies are growing in popularity, as they allow the little ones to have as much fun as adults (and vice versa).
Include Kid-Friendly Food
If you'll be including kids in your adult party (rather than the other way around), keep in mind that most 4-year-olds won't even look at prosciutto-wrapped asparagus.
Don't forget to include some kid-friendly favorites like grilled cheese, hot dogs, chicken nuggets, or (the perennial favorite) pizza!
...and Adult-Friendly Beverages
Any occasion feels more fun and festive with a bar, even if that "bar" is a cooler filled with Bud Light, better yet, or a llama or donkey that carry's your beer.
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You don't have to set up a full bartender station with mixers (although hats off to you if you do!). But putting out a few adult beverages next to the Capri Suns will let the grownups know, "Hey...you're welcome, too!"
10 Birthday Party Ideas For All Ages
Besides food and drink, what other activities would be fun for all ages?
We're so glad you asked.
Here are 10 birthday party ideas that'll both kids and adults will have a blast with.
1. DJ
A DJ can be the ultimate party accessory for any birthday celebration. They not only provide the perfect musical backdrop to keep the energy high and the dance floor packed, but they also know how to keep the party flowing smoothly.
With their skills in reading the crowd, making announcements, and engaging guests with fun activities, a DJ can transform a regular birthday party into an unforgettable experience. It's a must-have addition that can create a fun and memorable atmosphere for guests of all ages.
2. Photo Booth
Who doesn't love putting on a funny hat and cheesing it up for the camera? No one, that's who!
At Photobooth Rocks, we have plenty of booths with a smaller footprint, so you don't have to worry about getting a mammoth machine through the front door. We'll also provide lots of props for any theme you choose and, as the host, you'll get to keep a copy of every photo taken!
3. Water Slide
"We don't have a pool" is no longer an excuse!
Rent an inflatable water slide (or bounce house/water slide combo!) for an event that everyone will be talking about all summer! Bonus points if you add on a sno-cone machine.
4. Board Games
Hosting a birthday game night is another great idea. But since this is fun for ALL ages (not just the kids), steer clear of Candy Land and Chutes and Ladders.
Here are a few board games that all ages will enjoy:
- Beat the Parents - Kids answer "grownup" trivia and adults answer questions that only kids would know.
- Monopoly Junior - The original games takes way too long, but this pared-down version is perfect for an all ages get-together.
- Apples to Apples - Since you can't play Cards Against Humanity with kids, this will fit the bill.
- Guess Who? - This is even more fun if you customize the board with celebrities, superheroes, or people you know!
- Uno - The rules are simple enough for preschoolers to understand.
5. Lawn Games
If the weather's nice, some lawn games will keep everyone entertained.
Cornhole, ladder ball, giant Jenga...name one person who's gonna sit on the sidelines when these are available!
The toddlers might not follow the rules, but they'll have a blast anyway (which means the adults won't have to bust out the iPad to keep them quiet).
6. Retro Candy Bar or Lush Delectable Delights
Age ain't nothing but a number when it comes to sweets because we all have a sweet tooth. You can opt for a retro candy buffet to fit the theme of your event OR create a lush dessert spread with your favorite desserts.
Don't forget to include some small bags for people to take their favors home.
7. Trivia
Kids don't like answering questions in class, but they love trivia. Go figure.
Look up some questions online or have a local trivia company host a customized trivia event just for you. Ask for separate adults' and kids' rounds or have them compile a list of "Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader"-type questions.
8. Pet Party
Maybe it's your birthday...maybe it's your dog's birthday. Does it matter? A pet party is TOO MUCH FUN!
Have guests bring their pets over for some multi-species entertainment. Include snacks for the animals as well as activities that humans and pets can do together (like fetch or tug of war).
Rent a photo booth as well so everyone can get a cute portrait with their furry (or scaly) friends!
9. Bingo
The rules are easy enough for all ages to understand and parents can help younger kids without giving them an unfair advantage.
Make this even more family friendly with musical bingo! Instead of numbers, tiles are filled with song titles. The "caller" (your DJ, perhaps?) plays the songs randomly until someone gets bingo.
10. Karaoke
Not everybody wants to embarrass themselves in front of a bunch of strangers, but in front of all their friends? That's another story!
Make sure the song selections are safe for tiny ears and watch the kids' eyes light up as their dad belts out "You're Welcome" with his best The Rock impression.
Fun For Everyone
Making your birthday party, wedding, or other event fun for all ages doesn't have to mean two separate parties. With these birthday party ideas, you'll have everyone from toddlers to teens (and their parents, too!) BEGGING to stay just a little bit longer!
At Photobooth Rocks, parties are our specialty and nothing fits better into a party than a photo booth.
Multiple booth and background styles, unlimited booth visits, a designated concierge, plus a table full of hilarious props all set us apart from other rental companies. Come see what all the fuss is about! Call today to reserve your booth!
