Coming up with 
fresh ideas for a memorable, fun and affordable birthday party for your child each year can pose a challenge. Whether you want to throw your bash at home or take your party on the road, we’ve gone beyond the bouncy house to bring you some truly unique party themes that are sure to please your little party girl. Whatever your birthday girl’s latest fascination, we’ve got you covered!
Parties for Animal Lovers
Little girls love animals! Whether your birthday girl is a horse-crazy cowgirl or aspiring veterinarian, you can’t go wrong with one of these great animal party options. Party Ponies in Fall City offers pony ride parties at their own picturesque farm – complete with an indoor arena, petting zoo and adorable party room. You pick the theme and they’ll take care of the rest. Or have them bring the party (and the ponies!) to your location - Giddy up, partner! If it’s a walk on the wild side that excites your little one – why not try a zoo animal themed party? And what better location for it than Seattle’s own Woodland Park Zoo. The Zoo’s historic carousel features specialty party rooms for a truly one-of-a-kind birthday experience. Party packages include zoo admission, carousel rides and room rental for up to 15 guests and zoo members receive a 10% discount.
Cooking up a Party
Does your little one love to help out in the kitchen? A cooking party is a great hands-on, creative theme that kids of all ages will enjoy. NuCulinary in West Seattle creates custom cooking parties for 6-12 year olds (teen and adult classes are also available). Just give them a call and they’ll “cook up” a super creative party tailored to your little chef’s desires. Apron cooking school of Seattle offers in-home cooking parties for ages 3-14 including the preparation of an entrée, beverage, and dessert of the birthday girl’s choice. Apron brings all the gear, coaches the cooks, and takes care of cleanup while the kids dine on their culinary creations. Your guests will take home goodie bags filled with recipe cards from the party’s menu, as well as other kid-friendly favorites. The birthday girl will even receive her own apron, which her party guests can autograph!
A Day at the Spa
Every girl loves to be pampered and Lily’s Pampering Salon & Party Boutique in Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood has takes it to the next level! Choose from ultra girlie party themes like Power of Pink, Tea Time, Flower Power and Sleeping Beauties. Each custom party includes use of the festive party room, cupcakes and pink lemonade, group photo, party favors and crafts, “posh polish” and “sassy updos.” Just choose your theme and prepare to be pampered!
Parties for Little Picassos
Arts Aloft in Seattle’s quaint Madrona neighborhood makes the perfect party locale for your budding artist. The owner (also a mom) will meet with you and your child prior to the party to determine the party project and tailor it to your child’s interests. The studio is located right across from Madrona Park, offering a great spot for playtime after the party. Party boxes, with all the supplies you’ll need for your project, are also available “to go” if you would like to have your party at home or another location. Pizza and Picasso are a natural combination at Museo Art Academy in Issaquah. Your party girl and her guests will be led in a 45-minute custom art project followed by a celebration in the party room. Project examples might be clay, watercolor, pastel, or even cartoons. Museo provides all of the necessary art materials as well as your party supplies (plates, napkins, etc) and even better, they’ll take care of the setup and cleanup. You’ll even receive digital artwork for party e-vites.
Skate Parties
The skating party never goes out of style! In the same location in Bellevue since 1974, Skate King offers a wide array of roller skating birthday party options including a Saturday morning time slot for kids under 10 only or an evening skate featuring retro music. Packages include invitations, admission, skate rental (quad or inline available), server, place settings, sodas, ice cream. Pizza, popcorn and hot dogs are also available. Your little skater even receives a gift and a free admission pass to bring back up to 4 friends on another visit. If ice skating is more your speed, Lynnwood Ice Center offers very affordable options for a fun-filled birthday bash. A deluxe party includes admission and skate rental for 8 and a reserved private party room with decorated table. You can even add on a private lesson for your group from one of the rink’s instructors. Food and drink are up to you – you can bring in anything you like!
-Susan Ossinger
