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how to plan a child's birthday party

Last updated: 30/10/2023 

create a birthday to remember

Here at Go Ape, we know there's a lot to think about when hosting a fun and entertaining birthday party for your mini-adventurers. So, we've created a handy list of useful tips to help you along the journey when preparing a memorable birthday bash for your little one (and all their friends).   

Candles and cake at the ready!

top tips for planning the ultimate kids' birthday party

Tip 1: FANCY DRESS or set a theme

From Hogwarts wizards to Disney princesses, kids love to play dress up. So, why not let your little one pick the dress code for their party? 

Transport the lucky birthday child into their favourite fantasy world and brainstorm how to incorporate the theme into decorations, the cake, and other party details.

You can even hire entertainment as a themed character to really bring your party to life. Don't forget to mention the theme on the invite so other kids can dress up too. 

Tip 2: plan the guest list

When it comes to invitees, make sure you know the capacity of the venue hosting your party, and keep in mind the number of parents, siblings and the supervising adults needed.

Depending on the age of your child's friends, some parents may stay to supervise their kids and may bring along younger or older siblings with them so make sure you're prepared to host all who are coming. Remember, sometimes less is more.

Having 20 or 30 kids may be overwhelming for the party boy or girl, inviting a handful of their closest friends may guarantee a better time and be less stressful for the parent planning!

Birthday party group in Go Ape Shelter with Birthday Cake

tip 3: Consider a joint birthday party

If there's another child's birthday coming up and you're going to have a similar guest list, a joint birthday party could be a budget-friendly way to half the cost, time, and energy needed to plan a kid's birthday party. Just make sure your little ones are happy to share the limelight.

Tip 4: be mindful of the date and time

The simple details like the date and time of your child's party may seem obvious to plan, but there are a few things to remember before deciding when to throw your ultimate birthday bash. Check the date doesn't clash with any public holidays and special days like Mother's Day or Father's Day, otherwise, it's likely your invitees will already have plans. The time you throw your party may also determine what type of food you serve up. And, if your child is still around napping age, this is another thing to consider when organising your party.

Most importantly, remember to leave plenty of time for arrival and check-in to any events based birthday activities, to round your group up.  

Group of children lining up for Go Ape Treetop Adventure

Tip 5: GO OLD SCHOOL

There's a reason why we remember playing sleeping lions, musical chairs, and pass the parcel when we were young - because they were super fun! And the bonus is that you don't need much in the way of equipment - simple! If you're more of a 'sit out' parent, it's not cheating if you enlist the help of another adult.

From magicians and fairies to clowns and pirates, a children's entertainer will do all the work, so you don't have to.

(Note: you might want to check none of the kids are going to start bawling at the sight of a clown).

TIP 6: GO APE!

For a guaranteed 'never-to-be-forgotten' birthday party with an outdoor twist, choose a Go Ape kids birthday party. Your little one and their friends get to enjoy thrilling canopy exploring, trail blazing, and obstacles.

Remove some of the stress by adding extras to your do, such as party bags, and a special t-shirt for the birthday boy or girl. Or make the day even more special and hire a forest shelter or private party room where your little one can blow out the candles.

(PS. Fancy dress is not essential but strongly recommended!).

(P.P.S f your party is at Go Ape, remember that costumes must allow a harness to be fitted safely for high ropes activities. Consumes that risk getting trapped in the safety equipment or obstacles will also not be allowed onto the course. Please no long flowing dresses or capes.) 

Plan a Go Ape Birthday Party

children's parties

Group of children on Go Ape Nets Adventure birthday party celebration