Party Themes

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 party themes below. Each theme provides fun ideas for invitations, decorations, activities, favors, and refreshments. Need more ideas? See our list of 100 Party Themes!

Still not sure which theme 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 personality and skills. 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 an Art Party or Tea Party, might be a better fit.

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, or Sesame Street, set 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, but dinosaurs are your child’s thing, go ahead and have a Dinosaur Party. Just stretch your imagination to make it unique.