Discover Fun Frugal Locations For Kids Birthday Parties

Posted by on Oct 1, 2012 in Baby

Discover Fun Frugal Locations For Kids Birthday Parties

Kids birthday parties can be expensive. You can bank on spending a lot of your hard-earned money on a so-called ‘pre-packaged party’ such as the ones you’ll find at popular places like Chuck E Cheese or Monkey Joes. If you are looking for a place to set up your party, but want to keep your budget low, a little research will go a long way to saving you some real money.

Check Out the Local Parks

Many cities and towns have nice parks with plenty of amenities. You may find picnic tables, grills, electric hookups, enclosed shelters, and, of course, the playground areas. With just a few things from home, some well planned food and drink, and a bunch of fun games, you can turn your child’s birthday party into a day of fun in the sun, and for a lot less money.

Check Out the Community

There are probably places within your community where you can rent a room or pay a donation for the use of the facilities. For instance, contact the pastor of your church and arrange to pay a donation for the use of one of the children’s rooms.

Kids birthday parties can be expensive.
CC image courtesy of Francisco Solsona

These will often have craft supplies and games already set up in the room that you will be able to use, for a donation, of course. Take time to research online for some great craft ideas and you’ll have a good start. Schools and libraries may also have an area available for group activities.

Your community also may have a children’s museum, perhaps even with hands-on fun. Another option is to take the kids on a ‘factory tour.’ Oftentimes, shops where candy, chocolate, or even decorations like wreaths are made are happy to share a little time with groups of kids. They can see how chocolate, candies, fruit snacks, candles, wreaths, or other crafts and yummy treats are made. Arrange ahead to buy something from the shop to throw into the goodie bags and everybody’s happy.

Check Out Your Own Backyard

Having a party in your own backyard is one of the best ways to host a cheap birthday party. If your backyard doesn’t fit the bill, perhaps a friend or family member would be willing to lend their acreage for your party. With a backyard party, you have the freedom to create a party of your own choosing. Pick a theme and have even more fun; themes like:

  • A pajama party
  • A beach party
  • A wild west party
  • A cooking party
  • A karaoke party with singing contests and prizes
  • A pizza party where they make their own pizzas
  • or a camp-out complete with tents, roasted hotdogs, and s’mores

By using the resources available around you, you can create a birthday party that your child will remember forever, and for a fraction of the cost of a pre-packaged birthday.

When it comes right down to it, kids just want to have fun, try new things, and be able to let their imaginations soar. As long as you are creative in your approach, you can have a great birthday party without spending a ton of money.

About Paula Green

Paula offers expert advice on lifestyle and travel. She is also a keen traveller. Her favorite destination is Fiji.