Updated August 26, 2025

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Choosing the right birthday party activities for kids can feel overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be! Whether you’re planning for toddlers, tweens, or teens, the right mix of fun and simple activities will keep kids entertained and make your child’s celebration unforgettable.
From classic outdoor games like tug-of-war to creative party themes like spa days and boba tea bars, this guide covers 50+ of the best birthday party activities for kids in 2025. These ideas work for every age group and budget, helping you skip the stress and enjoy the day right alongside your child.
👉 For even more inspiration by theme and age, don’t miss our complete guide to birthday party ideas for kids.
Trending Birthday Party Ideas for Kids in 2025

Looking for what’s popular right now? These trending birthday party themes are capturing kids’ imaginations in 2025:
- Taylor Swift Birthday Party – Perfect for Swifties, complete with friendship bracelet making, karaoke to favorite songs, and glittery décor. See our full guide to Taylor Swift birthday party ideas.
- Wicked-Themed Birthday Party – With the Wicked movie release creating buzz, kids love dressing up as Glinda and Elphaba. Green-and-black decorations, “emerald” snacks, and Broadway sing-alongs make it magical. Explore our Wicked birthday party ideas.
- Boba Tea Birthday Party – Bubble tea is still a favorite with tweens and teens. Create a DIY boba bar with toppings and flavors, or host a tasting challenge. See our complete list of boba tea birthday party ideas for kids.
- Fortnite Fort Night – Still going strong, this theme blends real-world creativity (building forts) with video game fun. Plan your next Fortnite birthday party with creative ideas.
- Caitlin Clark Basketball Party – Basketball-loving kids are all about Caitlin Clark right now. Think mini-hoop competitions, autograph-style party favors, and team-colored décor. Bonus: set up a “3-point contest” or skills challenge for guests.
- 90s Retro / Happy Face Party
Bright neon colors, smiley-face motifs, checkered prints, and DIY friendship bracelets bring a playful, nostalgic energy. Talk about bold and cheerful!
Creative & Themed Birthday Party Ideas
Themed birthday parties are always a hit because they tap into kids’ favorite interests and make the celebration feel extra special. From sweet treats to Broadway-inspired fun, these creative themes bring personality, excitement, and lasting memories.
Donut-Making Party

A donut-making party is a sweet and hands-on way to celebrate. Kids can decorate plain donuts with colorful glazes, sprinkles, and toppings, turning your kitchen into a mini bakery.
👉 Here’s a full guide to hosting a donut decorating party for kids, and if you’re looking for more simple birthday snacks, try these budget-friendly party food ideas for kids.
Spa Party

Spa parties are a fantastic way to introduce kids to self-care while making them feel pampered and special. From DIY bath bombs and mini manicures to cucumber water and robes, it’s all about relaxation and fun.
👉 See our full guide to DIY spa birthday party activities for kids.
Mad Science Experiment Party

For curious kids, nothing beats a mad science theme. Think slime stations, baking soda volcanoes, and colorful chemical reactions — easy experiments that wow the crowd.
👉 See all our easy science experiments for kids’ parties. When you need simple snacks that don’t break the bank, these budget-friendly party food ideas for kids are perfect.
Paint & Sip Soiree

A paint-and-sip party gives older kids (ages 9–12) a chance to feel creative and sophisticated. Set up easels, provide sparkling juice “mocktails,” and guide them through a painting project.
👉 Get step-by-step ideas for a kids’ paint and sip birthday party.
Cookie or Cupcake Decorating

Cookie decorating doubles as both activity and treat. Supply sugar cookies or cupcakes, frosting, and toppings, then let the kids compete or create freely.
👉 Find more ideas in our budget-friendly kids’ party food guide.
DIY Kids Painting Party
For young artists, a DIY painting party is always a winner. Provide canvases or roll out paper for a giant group mural, then let kids take home their masterpiece.
👉 Read our complete post on DIY kids’ painting party ideas.
Princess or Fairytale Party
Step into a storybook world with a princess or fairytale theme. Kids can dress up as their favorite characters, decorate paper crowns or tiaras, and enjoy a “royal treasure hunt” around the house or backyard. Add castle decorations, glittery cupcakes, and a storytelling corner for a magical finishing touch.
Superhero Party
Perfect for action-loving kids, a superhero party lets guests unleash their inner hero. Hand out blank capes and masks for kids to decorate, then set up a “training course” with simple obstacles like cones, tunnels, or balance beams. End with themed cupcakes and a superhero photo booth to capture the day.
Tea Party / Alice in Wonderland Twist
A tea party is sweet, simple, and full of charm. Set the table with mini tea sets, finger sandwiches, and cupcakes, and encourage kids to dress up for the occasion. Add an Alice in Wonderland spin with “Mad Hatter” hats, playing card decorations, and a silly craft station for an extra dose of whimsy.
Lego Party
A Lego birthday is all about creativity and hands-on fun. Kids can free-build their own designs, compete in timed “build battles,” or race Lego cars down a homemade ramp. Decorate with colorful blocks, use Lego figures as cake toppers, and send kids home with mini kits as party favors.
Outdoor & Backyard Birthday Games
Outdoor birthday games are perfect for big groups of kids who need space to run, jump, and burn energy. These backyard classics guarantee laughter, friendly competition, and hours of active fun.
Nerf Battle Party

If your child loves action, a Nerf party is always a winner. Hand out foam blasters, divide into teams, and let the battle begin in a yard or park.
👉 Ready for epic foam dart battles? Get more Nerf birthday party games and setup tips.
Water Balloon Games

On a hot summer day, water balloon activities are the best way to cool off. From balloon hot potato to a squat race, kids will stay active and entertained.
👉Try these fun water balloon games for parties.
Flashlight Games
Flashlights make nighttime parties magical. Play flashlight tag, shadow charades, or even a glow-in-the-dark limbo.
👉 Explore our favorite flashlight games for kids.
Slip n’ Slide n’ Grab

When you can’t have a pool party, a slip n’ slide is the best way to get wet and wild! Better yet, place random objects along the slip n slide. Try to grab them as you slide down! Any 8-year-old boy or girl would love to have a slip n’ slide birthday party.
Treasure Hunt or Scavenger Hunt
Create clues and hide small prizes around the yard. For themed birthdays, tie the hunt to the party (e.g., a Marauder’s Map for Harry Potter fans).
Backyard Campout
Set up tents, roast marshmallows, and let the kids sleep under the stars. Add flashlight tag and s’mores for the ultimate camp vibe.
Flag Football Game
Perfect for sports fans — order flag belts, split into teams, and play a short game before cake.
Tug of War

All you need is a rope and a center marker. Add a sprinkler for extra laughs!
Capture the Flag
Split the kids into two teams and give each side a “flag” — it can be a bandana, ball, or any small object. Teams hide their flag in their territory and then strategize to steal the opponent’s without being tagged. This game is best for bigger groups and works perfectly in a park or large backyard.
Kickball or Dodgeball
These playground favorites are easy to adapt for a backyard party. For kickball, mark bases with cones or chairs and play just like baseball. Dodgeball only requires soft foam balls and a center line — quick to set up and great for letting kids burn off energy. Both games work well with large groups and mixed ages.
Soccer Shootout
Set up cones or a small net to create a goal, then let kids take turns kicking from a marked distance. Give each player a set number of tries and see who can score the most goals. For variety, rotate goalies so everyone gets a turn defending the net. This is a perfect choice for soccer-loving kids.
Obstacle Course
Use whatever you have on hand — cones, hula hoops, chairs, pool noodles, or blankets — to create a challenging course. Time each child as they run, crawl, and jump through the obstacles. You can also split kids into teams for a relay-style race. It’s simple, flexible, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Bouncy House
Renting a bounce house is always a hit, especially with younger kids. Place it in the yard or at a local park, add some upbeat music, and let the jumping begin. Bounce houses keep kids entertained for long stretches and can easily serve as the main attraction of your party. Just be sure to follow age and weight guidelines for safety.
Sidewalk Chalk Mural
Turn your driveway or patio into a giant canvas with chalk and masking tape. Kids can color inside the taped shapes to create geometric “stained glass” murals or work together on a big group design. It’s an easy, inexpensive way to let kids be creative.
👉 See our complete post on sidewalk chalk party ideas.
Relay Races
Classic relays are quick to set up and hilarious to watch. Try an egg-and-spoon race, three-legged race, or penguin race (where kids shuffle with a ball between their knees). These short games keep the energy high and work best in an open yard or park.
Spud
Spud is a lively ball game for groups of at least five. One child throws a ball in the air while calling another player’s number; that child must catch it and yell “Spud!” while everyone else freezes. The catcher then takes three steps toward any player and tries to hit them with the ball. Each miss or hit earns letters until someone spells out S-P-U-D and is out.
Play Tag (Variations)
Tag is the ultimate backyard birthday game, and there are endless ways to play it. In Freeze Tag, tagged players must freeze until a teammate unfreezes them. Tunnel Tag requires players to crawl under a frozen player’s legs to free them. Bandaid Tag adds a twist by having kids hold their hand on the tagged spot, and Stuck-in-the-Mud Tag makes kids crouch until they’re freed. These variations keep the game fresh and exciting.
Giant Bubble Station
Turn your yard into a bubble wonderland with a giant bubble station. All you need is a kiddie pool, homemade bubble solution, and oversized wands or hula hoops. Kids will love making bubbles bigger than themselves — and with a little practice, you can even create bubbles they can stand inside. It doubles as both an activity and a magical party backdrop.
Parachute Games
A big play parachute is one of the easiest ways to entertain a group of kids. Try “popcorn” (tossing balls on top and shaking), “mushroom” (lifting the chute high and running underneath), or color-call races where kids switch places when their color is called. These games are especially fun for younger children and keep everyone moving together.
Human Ring Toss / Pool Noodle Games
Pool noodles are cheap, versatile, and perfect for backyard games. Tape them into circles to create giant rings for a human ring toss, or use them as limbo sticks, hurdles, or even soft jousting props. They’re lightweight and safe, making them a flexible option to add into obstacle courses or relay races.
Balloon Stomp
This high-energy game guarantees giggles. Tie a balloon to each child’s ankle with string and have them race to pop everyone else’s balloon while protecting their own. The last person with an unpopped balloon wins. It’s simple, inexpensive, and works best in an open space where kids can move freely.
Classic Indoor Party Games

When the weather doesn’t cooperate, indoor birthday party games keep kids entertained without the stress. These tried-and-true activities are simple to set up, cost little or nothing, and work for a wide range of ages.
Acting & Performing Games
Charades
A timeless acting game kids of all ages enjoy. Write down prompts (animals, movies, characters, or silly actions), demonstrate an example, and let kids take turns acting them out. The sillier the clues, the more laughter it creates.
Karaoke
Set up a karaoke machine or use a YouTube karaoke playlist and let the kids perform their favorite songs. This works especially well for sleepovers or glow-in-the-dark dance parties. For shy kids, group sing-alongs are a great way to ease stage fright.
Glow Stick Dance Party
Turn out the lights, hand out glow sticks, and put on a fun playlist — suddenly the living room becomes a mini dance club. Add a blacklight or strobe for extra excitement. This pairs perfectly with Freeze Dance or Karaoke for a full music-themed night.
Movement & Action Games
Twister
This classic floor game always brings giggles. The caller shouts out a body part and color, and players stretch and twist until only one is left standing. For bigger groups, set up multiple mats and run mini tournaments.
Freeze Dance
Play music and have kids freeze when it stops — anyone caught moving is out. Add silly challenges like “freeze in a funny pose” or include chairs to play musical chairs. It’s fast, high-energy, and perfect for all ages.
Keep It Up
Give kids balloons or light balls and challenge them to keep them in the air without letting them touch the ground. For extra difficulty, add rules like “no using the same body part twice in a row.”
Simon Says
No prep required! One child is the leader and gives commands starting with “Simon says…” (“Simon says hop on one foot”). If the leader doesn’t say “Simon says” and kids still do the action, they’re out. Works for a wide age range.
Classic & Creative Games
Hot Potato
Pass around a ball, stuffed animal, or bean bag while music plays. When the music stops, the player holding the “potato” is out. Add challenges (sing a line, do a silly dance) to keep the energy high.
Hide & Seek
Simple but always fun. One child counts while everyone else hides, then tries to find them. Indoors, limit the play area to keep things safe and manageable.
Pictionary
Kids love drawing silly pictures while their friends try to guess the clue. Use a whiteboard, large paper, or even a tablet app. Pre-write age-appropriate prompts to avoid long pauses and keep the game moving.
Paper Airplane Cornhole
Each child folds their best paper airplane and competes to land it in a target bucket or box. Mark different “scoring zones” with bowls or bins for added challenge. This low-cost game is creative, fun, and surprisingly competitive.
Indoor Scavenger Hunt
Hide small items around the house and give kids a list or simple riddles to solve. For themed birthdays, tie the scavenger hunt to the theme (like “find the magic wand” for a Harry Potter party).
Carnival & Field Day Classics

Carnival-style birthday party games add a playful, nostalgic touch and work well for both small gatherings and large groups. These easy-to-set-up activities bring a festival vibe right to your backyard.
Relay & Races
Potato Sack Races (Ages 5+)
A classic field day favorite that never gets old. Give each child a potato sack or sleeping bag, mark a starting line, and let them hop to the finish. For bigger groups, divide into teams and run relay-style races.
High Jump & Long Jump (Ages 6+)
Mark a take-off line in the yard and see who can jump the highest or farthest. Use chalk or tape to record distances for friendly competition.
Target Toss Games
Climb the Ladder (Ages 6+)
Place a bottle on the bottom rung of a ladder. Kids toss soft balls to knock it down, moving the bottle higher each round. The higher it goes, the trickier it gets!
Cornhole (Ages 5–12)
This beanbag toss game is a hit for all ages. Move the boards closer for younger kids or run a full tournament for older ones. Perfect for backyard birthdays and family picnics.
Ring Toss (Ages 3–8)
Set up soda bottles or cones and give kids rings (glow sticks or plastic hoops work great). Each bottle can have different point values, making it fun for mixed ages.
Milk Can Toss (Ages 5+)
Stack empty milk jugs, buckets, or cans in a pyramid and let kids knock them down with soft balls. It’s classic carnival fun that’s easy to DIY with things you already have at home.
Bowl Buckets (Ages 4–10)
Line up bowls with point values written inside. Kids toss small balls or beanbags and try to rack up the most points in a set number of throws.
Horseshoes (Ages 6+)
Try rubber horseshoes for a safe, kid-friendly version of this classic. Players take turns tossing to land a ringer around the stake.
Balloon Bulls Eye (Ages 6+)
Tape balloons to a board or fence and let kids throw beanbags or Velcro balls to pop or knock them down. Each balloon can be worth different points for extra excitement.
Big-Impact Activities
Limbo (Ages 4–10)
Turn up the music and see how low kids can go. Use a broomstick, pool noodle, or limbo pole, lowering it each round. Add Hawaiian music or decorations for a festive twist.
Lawn Bowling (Ages 5–12)
Set up plastic bottles as pins and use any ball to knock them down. Space the pins farther apart for older kids or use lighter balls for younger players.
DIY Twister (Ages 6+)
Spray-paint colorful circles on the grass for a giant outdoor version of the classic game. Perfect for groups who love laughter and silly challenges.
Giant Jenga or Memory Game (Ages 7+)
Stack oversized blocks and take turns removing one until the tower falls. For a budget-friendly option, create a giant memory game using cardboard cards with letters or drawings. Both options are crowd-pleasers.
Duck Pond / Fishing Game (Ages 3–6)
Fill a kiddie pool with floating ducks or lightweight objects. Kids “fish” for them using nets or toy poles, with numbers or small prizes written on the bottoms. A perfect low-key activity for preschoolers.
Piñata (All Ages)
Few activities scream “birthday” like a piñata. Blindfold each child, spin them gently, and let them swing until the candy spills out. For big groups, consider more than one piñata so everyone gets a fair share.
Hula Hoop Fun (Ages 4–10)
Hula hoops aren’t just for waist-spinning. Try timed contests, obstacle courses, or human ring toss. Affordable, high-energy, and adaptable for all ages.
Sports & Active Party Games

For kids who love competition, sports-themed birthday games are always a hit. These activities combine movement, teamwork, and friendly rivalry — making them perfect for high-energy celebrations.
Throwing & Tossing Games
Frisbee Toss (Ages 6+)
Set up a bucket, laundry basket, or hula hoop target and let kids toss frisbees from different distances. Keep score, increase the throwing distance for older kids, or run a timed tournament. It’s easy to set up in a yard or park and fun for all skill levels.
Ring Toss (Ages 5+)
Classic carnival meets backyard fun. Use pegs, cones, or water bottles as targets and toss rings to score points. For a DIY version, glow stick necklaces make great rings, and plastic bottles filled with water or sand keep the targets sturdy.
Balloon Tennis (Ages 5–9)
Hand out paper plates on sticks as rackets and balloons as balls. Kids try to volley the balloon back and forth without letting it hit the ground. It’s safe, silly, and perfect for indoor or younger age parties.
Ball Games
Around the World / H.O.R.S.E. (Basketball, Ages 7+)
Using a basketball hoop or even a laundry basket indoors, kids take shots from different spots and try to make it around the “world.” For older players, try a full H.O.R.S.E. game where missed shots earn letters. Flexible, competitive, and great for basketball fans.
Backyard Baseball (Ages 6+)
Mark bases with cones or chairs, grab a plastic bat and ball, and let kids play a short game. For younger kids, swap in a wiffle ball for safety. Baseball works especially well with mixed ages, since younger kids can bat while older ones field.
Soccer Shootout (Ages 5+)
Set up cones or a net and let kids take turns shooting from a marked line. Rotate goalies so everyone gets a turn in the net. Keep score for bragging rights or add a “3-kick challenge” to ramp up the excitement.
Team Competitions
Beach Ball Shot Put (Ages 5–10)
Lightweight beach balls make this game safe and funny. Kids “push” the ball shot-put style from a throwing line and measure the distance. Add chalk lines or team competitions to make it feel like a mini track-and-field event.
Relay Dribble Races (Soccer or Basketball, Ages 6+)
Set up cones and let kids dribble a soccer ball with their feet or a basketball with their hands down and back before tagging the next teammate. Quick, energetic, and ideal for large groups.
Mini Olympics (All Ages)
Rotate kids through simple “events” like crab walks, bean bag tosses, or jump rope contests. Everyone collects points or ribbons, so no one feels left out. It’s a great way to keep a group engaged and moving.
Capture the Cones (Ages 6+)
Divide kids into two teams and place cones on each side of the field. The goal is to sneak across, grab cones, and get back without being tagged. It’s fast-paced, encourages strategy, and works well with medium to large groups.
Kick the Can (Ages 7+)
A throwback outdoor classic. One child guards the can while others hide; if someone can sneak in and kick it before being tagged, everyone is freed. Best with older kids who love a mix of hiding, running, and strategy.
Seasonal Birthday Party Ideas

Seasonal activities make birthday parties feel extra special by celebrating the time of year. Whether it’s sledding in winter, water games in summer, or pumpkin patches in the fall, these ideas match the season and keep kids engaged.
Winter Fun
Ice Skating (Ages 5+)
Head to a local ice rink or safe frozen pond for a skating party. Kids can practice tricks, play “Red Light, Green Light,” and end with hot cocoa and cookies to warm up. Perfect for birthdays that fall during the coldest months.
Sledding Party (Ages 4+)
Find a gentle hill and bring a variety of sleds for kids to race. Add challenges like “longest ride” or “best crash” (funny, not dangerous!) to keep the energy high. A snack break with thermoses of hot chocolate keeps everyone cozy.
Snow Sculpture Contest (Ages 6+)
Split into teams and let kids build snowmen, castles, or themed creations. Provide hats, scarves, and accessories for decorating. A low-cost, creative way to turn snowy weather into party magic.
Spring Celebrations
Park Picnic Party (All Ages)
Take advantage of warmer weather with a birthday picnic. Spread out blankets, serve easy finger foods, and bring along balls, frisbees, or bubbles for free play. This is one of the easiest, most budget-friendly seasonal party ideas.
Flower or Garden Party (Ages 5–10)
Let kids decorate small flowerpots, plant seeds, or make flower crowns. It’s hands-on, fun, and makes a memorable party favor when kids take their plants home. A perfect tie-in for spring birthdays.
Kite Flying Party (Ages 6+)
Spring winds make for great kite flying. Bring store-bought kites or let kids decorate their own with markers and stickers before heading outside to fly them. Works well at a park with open space.
Summer Splash
Water Blob (Ages 6–12)
DIY a giant water blob from a tarp and duct tape — kids can bounce, slide, and lounge for hours. It’s like a homemade splash pad and makes for amazing photo ops.
Slip ’n’ Slide (Ages 5+)
Set one up in the yard, add sprinklers, and let the races begin. Level it up by placing small toys or sponges along the slide for kids to grab as they glide.
Water Balloon Games (Ages 5+)
Try toss relays, “water balloon hot potato,” or a balloon stomp race. These simple activities guarantee laughter and keep kids cool during hot birthdays.
Backyard Pool Party (All Ages, with supervision)
If you have access to a pool, set up noodles, floats, and diving games. Finish with popsicles or an ice cream sundae bar. Just make sure plenty of adults are watching for safety.
👉 Explore fun pool party ideas for kids.
Fall Favorites
Pumpkin Patch Party (Ages 3–10)
Take the party to a local pumpkin patch where kids can pick pumpkins, enjoy hayrides, and wander corn mazes. Back at home, set up a pumpkin decorating station with stickers and paint (no sharp tools required).
Apple Picking Party (Ages 5+)
Celebrate fall by visiting an orchard. Kids can pick apples, then return to make caramel apples or mini pies as a hands-on activity. A wholesome, seasonal favorite for families.
Harvest Scavenger Hunt (Ages 6+)
Hide small fall-themed items — mini pumpkins, pinecones, or candy apples — around the yard. Give kids clues or riddles to make it a full-on treasure hunt. This works well for both small groups and larger gatherings.
Entertainment & Shows

Sometimes the best birthday memory comes from bringing in a little outside magic. These options add a wow factor to your party — from live animals to a magician’s tricks — and work for kids of many ages.
Petting Zoo (Ages 3–10)
Animal lovers will be thrilled with a mobile petting zoo. Kids can feed, pet, and learn about animals like goats, bunnies, and chickens right in your backyard. If you’d rather not host at home, many local farms and zoos offer party packages.
Magic Show (Ages 4–9)
Hiring a magician adds instant excitement. With card tricks, balloon animals, and interactive illusions, kids get to be part of the act — and the birthday child often gets a starring role. Always check reviews or ask other parents for recommendations to ensure a fun, age-appropriate show.
Puppet or Storytelling Show (Ages 3–7)
Bring in a puppeteer or storyteller to captivate younger kids with funny voices, silly characters, and audience participation. It’s budget-friendly, works well indoors, and keeps kids glued to the performance.
Character Visit (Ages 3–8)
Princesses, superheroes, or even mascots can show up for photos, games, and sing-alongs. Many companies offer short appearances (30–60 minutes), making this a fun add-on without needing to plan a full show.
Happy birthday to your child! We hope this list of the best kids’ birthday party activities helps you plan a celebration that’s fun, stress-free, and totally memorable. From indoor games to outdoor adventures, there’s something here for every kind of party.
Still looking for ideas tailored to your child’s age? Explore these guides:
- By Age
- Birthday party ideas for 3-year-olds
- Outdoor birthday ideas for 4-year-olds
- Fun 5-year-old birthday activities
- Birthday activities for 7-year-olds
- Birthday games for 8-year-olds
- 9-year-old birthday party ideas
- 10-year-old birthday party ideas
- 11-year-old birthday activities
- 12-year-old birthday party ideas
- 13-year-old birthday activities
- By Gender
- By General Interests
Frequently Asked Questions About Kids’ Birthday Party Activities
Answer: Great indoor birthday activities include classic games like charades, Twister, and karaoke, as well as themed ideas like spa parties, movie nights, or cookie-decorating stations. These keep kids entertained without needing much space.
Answer: Affordable options include backyard games like tug-of-war, scavenger hunts, or water balloon tosses. You can also host DIY craft stations, home movie nights, or simple dance parties with glow sticks — all fun and low-cost.
Answer: Outdoor favorites include capture the flag, sack races, obstacle courses, and slip ‘n slide challenges. These high-energy games are easy to set up and keep large groups of kids engaged.
Answer: Parents love simple snacks like popcorn, fruit skewers, veggie cups, and DIY taco or hot dog bars. For dessert, cupcakes or cookies kids can decorate themselves double as both activity and treat. See our full guide to kids’ party food ideas on a budget.








