When it’s celebration time for teens, the planning can leave parents a bit confused. A few suggestions can make throwing a party a success and a memory to be cherished. Starting by including the teen in the preparation is a no brainer and most teens jump on board with some clear ideas for fun.
Party Ideas from Camping to Outdoor Movies
Below is a list of theme/ideas that may get the ball rolling.
- Camping – Kids of all ages love to camp and teens are no exception. Simply reserve a campsite and send out the invites. Be certain to check park rules on minors and chaperones or consider a back yard camping extravaganza. For food, have on hand camping favorites from hot dogs (veggie dogs for the vegetarians), chips and don’t forget s’mores! Flashlights or headlamps make terrific party favors but consider handing them out as guests arrive. A message of thanks can be inked with a permanent marker on the flashlight.
- Scavengers – Guys and girls alike respond to this idea. Enlisting additional parents as drivers is helpful. Split guests into groups and send them on a scavenger hunt throughout town. The trick is to require guests to take photos in front of each landmark they are sent to. Make certain the map is cryptic and encoded for a real challenge. Party favors can be t-shirts in different team colors and decorating the interior of the scavenger cars makes for unexpected fun.
- Outdoor Movie – This is an idea for the cash savvy. Many towns offer free outdoor movies at the park throughout summer. Guests are invited to the park for dinner and a movie. Invites can be made to resemble a movie ticket and glow necklaces make great party favors. For partiers wanting to remain close to home, DVD projectors and screens are available for rent. Don’t forget the popcorn!
- Midnight Madness – Host a surprise that appeals to teens. Wake the birthday boy/girl with a group of friends and head to an all night diner. All guests should be encouraged to arrive in pajamas. After a midnight dinner head back home for a sleepover complete with a movie. If a pool or Jacuzzi is available, a nighttime dip is perfect and pancakes with sparkler candles in the morning are a great alternative to cake.
- Themes Galore – Many ideas are born out of themes and the Wild West with lassos and bales of hay makes for a darn good time but if Cinco de Mayo sounds better, grab some sombreros, virgin margaritas, and salsa. The Indian culture is wonderful when henna is included or a hippie party with tie-dye is always a success.
From Party Favors to Cake, Involve the Teen
One idea that works no matter the theme is a simple home made cookie cake with frosting and candy and teens can even make and decorate it themselves. Parents provide the food, decorations and party favors and kids will provide the fun. Putting together a teen event can be simple and blowing out the candles on the cake will be the picture perfect moment.
Teri Clifton - Teri Clifton is a passionate traveler who loves striking out both alone and with her four children in search of adventure. Believing that ...
