Got a kid with a summertime birthday? Well, you're in luck! Not only can you hold that party outdoors, we've got a load of fun summer birthday party ideas for you. I mean, you could just do a cake and let the kids run around for the afternoon, and I wouldn't blame you a bit.
But a themed party is extra special — and your kids can get in on the planning, too. Here are seven birthday party themes that are especially fun for summer. There's one for almost every personality.
Pirate Party
Arggh, it's ye pirate party! Serve fish fingers and goldfish crackers, and maybe a bright-blue punch. Hand every kid part of a pirate costume, like the hat or the head scarf or just the eye patch (plastic swords at your discretion — could get crazy). And then send the kids off on a treasure hunt, a scavenger hunt for gold coin chocolates.
Fairy Party
For a sweet fairy party, serve pink frosted angel food cupcakes and cotton candy, if you can find it. Your little fairies can make their own paper fairy wings, and there's your activity and substitute for a goody bag all in one.
Garden Party
If you're already there in the backyard, turn it into a bug-loving garden party. I love this cute ladybug cake. And you've probably seen those gummy worms in a pudding cup with chocolate cookie crumbs. Have each child pot their own flower or herb to take home.
Water Fun Party
Remember the Slip 'n' Slide? They make for a great water party! If it's hot outside, you might as well invite the kids to come over in their swimsuits. Turn on the sprinklers, fill a wading pool, and roll out a slide for wild water fun. As for food, anything messy, since they can just rinse off: Fried chicken, popsicles, sloppy joes, cheese puffs …
Circus Party
For a circus-themed party, serve popcorn and circus peanut candies. Paint on clown makeup or hand out animal masks. Set up the tent and have kids perform simple circus tricks like jumping in and out of hula hoops, walking on a "tightrope" (a rope on the ground), and somersaults. Hire a magician or juggler — or a clown, if you can find one that won't cause your guests long-term fear of clowns.
Pajama Party
Everyone shows up in their pajamas for the pajama party! Serve birthday pancakes and have a pillow fight. Then set up a theater outside for a movie.
Crafts Party
If your child loves crafts, you could center a whole party around making soap, candles, origami, painting pottery, or anything else you can think of. And since it's outside, the cleanup is a little easier. Plus, everyone gets to take home something special they made.
