The night before one of my children’s birthday parties is always chaotic. I am vacuuming, I am reorganizing my fridge to fit a massive cake, I’m questioning all the life choices that led me to believe I should create an enormous balloon garland. But I am also excited. There is a frisson of joy running through my tasks like an electric current. Sure, we’re hosting a massive party for 15 preschoolers and their parents (most of whom we don’t really know) and I still have two dips to make when my alarm goes off at 6 a.m. tomorrow, and I’m pretty sure I forgot to get birthday candles, but we’re doing it all because we have a kid! A kid who has grown and is another year older. And we get to celebrate that kid. What a gift.
Now, I may be tempted to stay up until 3 a.m. making fairy wand fruit skewers, but it would devastate us if you were to read the stories here and conclude that you have to be the Hostess with the Mostest to throw a good birthday party. We’re also not going to tell you to “do less” if you love to go all out. Whether you’re a Pinterest mom or someone who doesn’t even like parties — it doesn’t matter. The only necessary ingredient to throwing a great celebration is the love you have for your kid, and we can help with the rest.
We’ve curated tons of ideas for party themes, games, and activities to keep little guests entertained, and those magical details that make even a small family celebration feel extra special. We’ve also asked the experts to weigh in on some of your most pressing party etiquette questions. (What are we doing about presents these days?) Because no matter what, the highlight of your day should be watching your child shut their eyes and then puff up their cheeks to blow out their candles with a wish.
—Samantha Darby, Senior Lifestyle Editor
There are a million moving parts to a kids party — and a million decisions to make. And as birthday parties have changed over the years, so have plenty of customs and even points of etiquette. But there’s an easy way to make sure you’re making the right decisions...
Our Favorite Party Ideas
2023's Most Popular
We curated them so you don’t have to.
For Your Squishmallow Fan
From axolotl invitations to the perfect cake pops.
For Your Puppy-Loving Kid
Props if you get actual puppies to come.
For Your Flower Child
You’re going to want to lean into the orange and flowers here.
For Your Wild 1-Year-Old
Lions, and tigers, and 1-year-olds, oh my!
For Your Unique Child
Did your kid ask for a Target party? We’ve got you.
What To Serve At A Kid’s Birthday Party
It can be simple and still special.
My Kid Always Has Big Birthday Feelings & I Feel Party Dread
When faced with such intense pressure to enjoy yourself and feel loved, wouldn’t anyone lose their sh*t?
Birthday Party Games & Activities That Will Actually Keep Kids Entertained
From extra crafty to simple and easy, this is the birthday party activity inspo you need.
The Ultimate Birthday Party Inspo
Scroll down to get pumped about throwing your kid an epic birthday party.
In Praise Of The C+ Birthday Party
I have not been expected to throw excellent birthday parties for my kids since I left my husband. I cannot overstate what a blessing this has been for me.
