100 Party Themes
First Birthday
Favorite Birthday
Favorites by Age
Holiday Parties
Invitations
Decorations
Party Favors
Planning Guide
Checklist
Games & Activities
Fun Food
Helpful Hints
Party Directory
Sometimes the party theme is clear from the occasion, such as for holidays or end-of-season sports celebrations. Other times, especially birthdays, the theme is up to you and your child.
Check out the list of party themes below and click on those of interest. Each theme provides fun ideas for invitations, decorations, activities, favors, and refreshments. Popular themes are shown with a gold star 
.
There's overlap in the categories above, so be sure to scan all the categories for ideas. Sports themes, such as Football and Soccer, make great birthday parties for a sports enthusiast. Many of the Holiday themes, such as St. Patrick's and Halloween, are fun for school parties.
Not sure which themes would be best for your child? Use our Theme Questionnaire to help you focus on some good ideas. And don't forget to ask your child. She may have some great ideas.
Visit our Favorite Birthday Parties and Ages & Stages for party themes that are popular with your child's age group.
Select a party theme that is compatible with your child's skills and personality. If your child is high energy, an outdoor Carnival or Sports World party with lots of games will be great. If your child is quiet or a bit shy, a party theme that accommodates calmer activities, such as Artist or Tea Party, might be more appropriate.
The number of guests, potential locations, and your budget can all influence the party theme. For example: if your child has lots of friends and family to invite, you don't have room at your house, and you don't have a big budget... a Picnic Party at a nearby park might be a good fit.
If the party theme is based on a particular character or story, such as Harry Potter, Winnie the Pooh, Sesame Street, etc... don't assume every child is familiar with the character. Consider setting the stage by reading a section of a book or showing a short video as one of the first activities at the party.
A word of caution... don't overdo the theme unless you're sure you and your child won't burn out on it. For example: A Barbie party with Barbie decorations, Barbie games, Barbie toys, and Barbie cake served on Barbie plates is a whole lot of Barbie!
Some years the same themes come up over and over again. If three of your child's friends already had dinosaur parties this year, but dinosaurs are your child's thing... go ahead and have a Dinosaur Party, but stretch your imagination to make it unique.