These birthday party activities for 13 year olds are fun ideas you can do to make the day extra special. Easy activities that your child are surely not going to forget for years to come!
WHY IS A 13TH BIRTHDAY SPECIAL?
Our kids are blessed with another year on their birthdays and every year is special. But, their 13th birthday is going to be extra special because this is the first stage of their teen years. It is a big deal to both the parents and the kids.
ARE THESE BIRTHDAY PARTY ACTIVITIES FOR BOYS OR GIRLS?
The birthday party activities for 13-year-olds that are mentioned in this article will be a mix of ideas that would be great for both boys and girls, for boys only, or for girls only. Choose from the huge fun party ideas down below!
BIRTHDAY PARTY ACTIVITIES FOR 13-YEAR-OLDS
Here are about 50 great party activity ideas for you to consider as you begin planning for this big day. Be sure to check each one, I'll be including all the details and info for each idea to make it easy for you. Be sure to read the whole list because you never know which activity will be perfect for your child.
1. MOVIE NIGHT
This might be a simple idea but I am going to show you how you can make a movie party unforgettable! Let's face it…teenagers love to watch movies. Here are the details to set up your movie party:
- Location
This can be done indoors or outside your house – like in your backyard. We did an outdoor movie at our house once and the kids adored it!
- Setting Up
If you are planning to set up indoors:
Having the lights turned off gives a more theater feel. But, to light up the room a little bit, I suggest that you hang some fairy lights around. These fairy lights are cheap but they make a really cute decoration.
Now, the seating plan. If the couch is not big enough for the guests, you can simply lay a bunch of pillows on the floor. You want them to feel comfortable even if they are not seated on the furniture. Kids love lounging around on the floor.
If you are planning to set up outdoors:
Setting up outside is a different vibe. Grab some picnic blankets or big rugs then lots of pillows and you are good to go. You can also put the fairy lights outside to set the mood.
How are we going to watch movies outside? Easy, just hang up a big plain white sheet or curtain then set up a projector. If you don't have one, here is a projector you can buy for less than a hundred dollars. This will be a good investment that can be used over and over.
- Food ideas
Of course, they are going to need some munchies while they watch movies. You can order some pizza, and make some popcorn.
- Movie ideas
Talk to your child and see what kind of movie they want to see. Be sure to keep it appropriate for the age.
2. GAME OVERLOAD PARTY
Most kids nowadays are very into games – it can be computer games, console games, or even mobile games. This might be the perfect idea for you! This kind of party is going to be a blast for the kids since they'll just be playing most of the time.
- Decorating
Looking for decorations that would be a great fit for this party theme isn't that hard. Check this pack of party supplies. This set includes everything you will be needing to throw this awesome gaming birthday party – Banner, Plates, Cups, Napkins, Tablecloth, and a big joystick controller balloon.
These party favors will also be a cool addition to the decorations. This set of party favors includes video game VIP pass holder tickets with a section where kids can write their names on, game controller keychains, 16 different styles of video game slap bracelets, game tattoo stickers, party favors bags, and transparent green cellophane bags with gold seal strips.
- Setting
If you own a lot of game consoles you can set these up at different locations around the house. For example, one room can have the Xbox in it, another area would be for Wii, and then outside you can set up a Playstation where they can play rock band or guitar hero so they could have a tournament for it.
However, if you don't have all those consoles, guests can also bring games or consoles if they want, just be sure to set up the games in stations.
Don't forget you can also do a retro game night and play BOARD GAMES.
- Food ideas
At this type of party, it is best to serve finger foods. Something like mini burgers, fries, mini hotdogs, or sandwiches for the kids. It would be easier so they can still snack while they play.
3. NEON PARTY
Glow parties are fun and creative. You also don't have to do much yet it creates a big impression on the guests.
- Decorating
If you are planning to throw this neon party, you would need these neon decorations. Also, the party wouldn't be complete without glow sticks and accessories! Don't forget to set up a dance floor too!
- Dresscode
Let the guests wear something bright and colorful to match the theme!
- Food ideas
You can serve anything you want but to add a glow to the food, you can add some neon food coloring to the cake or get some bright-colored candies. You can also add neon toothpicks on sandwiches to carry on the theme.
4. MURDER MYSTERY
Planning parties for your kids as they grow older gets harder and harder each year. Their tastes become a bit more mature and this murder mystery party should do the trick.
- Decorating
This will depend on what theme you have chosen. So the first thing you are going to do is to choose a theme and go from there.
- Setting up
There are a couple of ways you can do this – make your own, download a printable or get a pre-made pack online. If you're planning to write your own, the birthday celebrant can join in with the creating to make it more fun. Here are a few points to help you write your own storyline:
- Pick out a theme perfect for the guests (e.g. Marvel superheroes, Harry Potter, Great Gatsby, etc)
- Assign characters to each guest and make a description card for each one.
- Make a killer introduction that will get the players excited.
- Don't forget to make some evidence files and clues.
However, if you want to save time and not worry about thinking of a great story, you can get this Murder Mystery Party Case Files. Once you are done with that, you can go ahead and make the invitation cards that would go with your theme.
5. HUNGER GAMES
This might sound scary to play but of course, it won't be like the movie. It would just be the same concept. This active game will have kids excited to play.
- How to play
They can play individually or in groups. The main goal is to stay “alive”. Each player gets a TOY weapon. They will have a couple of minutes to hide after that they will hunt each other. The last man standing wins.
- Weapon ideas
– Cyber Shot Bow & Arrow Archery Set: this set includes 6 packs of bows and 3 arrows with suction cup tips in each pack. This will surely make them feel like Katniss Everdeen.
– Detective Dart Gun: this has 6 toy guns and 60 suction tip bullets included. It's safe to use too.
6. KARAOKE PARTY
Kids will definitely enjoy singing out to their favorite songs. This will have them entertained most of the time. To make it more fun, try some of the games listed down below!
- Decorations
You don't need to do a lot of decorating for a karaoke party. Be sure to have mics and a karaoke machine.
- Karaoke game ideas
Playing games before singing will break the ice if some of the other guests are too shy to sing. Here are some ideas for you:
– Name that tune: this can be played individually or in teams. All they have to do is guess the song title. You can either play a specific part of the song or play an instrumental version to make it harder.
– Misheard lyrics: this is a fun one, the rules are to sing the wrong lyrics to the song. Even if you know the song perfectly, you need to change the lyrics.
– Karaoke Roulette: this game is pretty simple. Just write down the names of each player on a piece of paper, fold it and shuffle it inside a bucket or hat. After that, pick out a name and choose a random song. Then, they would have to sing that song.
– Finish the lyrics: play a song and then randomly pause it, the first one to get the next line to the song correctly will win.
7. PIZZA PARTY
This won't be a typical pizza party. A DIY pizza party will be so much more fun than just buying different flavors of pizza.
- Decorating
You can just keep it simple. No need to decorate so much because the guests will be making pizzas most of the time. But if you want to add little something, this Pizza Birthday Banner would be perfect.
- Setting up
Make sure to get all the ingredients needed to make pizza – pizza crusts, tomato sauce, lots of cheese, pepperoni, mushroom, and whatever else you want to add. Prepare them in containers or bowls so they can easily get them. That's all you need! After they bake their pizzas, they can taste each other's pizzas!
8. BACKYARD CAMPING
This is a perfect one for their first day as teens. Camping on their own (but still near you, LOL!). This will be like a trial to adulthood for them. This is an easy & fun party to plan just as long as it won't be rained out. Be sure to include the stuff to make Smores!
- Preparation
They are going to need a couple of things for camping. Here is a list of some basic things to prepare for their backyard camping:
– Tent
– Sleeping Bags
– Extra Blankets (if needed)
– Food
– Flashlights or lanterns
If your kid love camping this party would be a great idea.
9. SILENT DISCO
This idea actually originated back in 1997. But, not most people knew about it. It did become popular again a couple of years back. Some might have seen it in the Netflix series – Atypical.
- What is a silent disco?
A silent disco is like a normal dance party but instead of playing music through speakers, you use headphones to listen. Usually, at silent disco events, there are two or three different channels of music genres people can listen to. This is done so that people with different music tastes can choose from the channels they want to listen to and dance to.
It's pretty smart since neighbors won't be getting mad because of the loud party music, no more shouting when talking to each other, and you can pick your own song. This disco has been around for a while, but it just took a while for this idea to grow into popularity.
- Preparation
Here is what you are going to need for this party:
– Venue
– LED headphones with transmitter
– 3 sets of different playlists
If you don't want to want to worry about that there are companies that do silent disco equipment rentals too. On the other hand, having your own set means you get to have silent discos whenever you want.
10. BALL PARTY
Sporty kids will get a kick out of a ball party. Let your kids pick out different types of sports he/she wants to include and play at the party.
- Ball Game Ideas
Basketball
Volleyball
Soccer
Table Tennis
- Location
After choosing the ball games for the party, the kids will play tournament-style. If you have a court or a big backyard that they can play in, that would be better. If not, use a local playground or park for the tournament.
- Preparation
There isn't much to prepare but here are some things you will need for this party:
– Balls for the game
– Nylon Mesh Jerseys: they can wear this when they play their tournament games and then after this can also be given as a party favor to them.
– Mini Trophies for the winning team.
– Gatorade: they are going to need to quench their thirst!
– Snacks: you can prepare some sandwiches, burgers or maybe get some pizza.
11. SCAVENGER HUNT PARTY
This idea is very exciting. There are lots of ways this can be done – you can do it in a mall, around the house, in the neighborhood, or maybe at the park. They are all going to be thrilled with this.
- Tips for an awesome scavenger hunt party
– Plan their route: be sure to scout the locations to get that route perfectly done. It will be just like the amazing race!
– Write clues and also number them: you can put the clues in envelopes for each team. Clues can be riddles, puzzles they can solve, or even a task they are supposed to do to get to the next round.
– You should carefully plan everything: allot some time to do the planning
– You can add some random prizes along with the game just to keep things interesting
– Don't forget to set ground rules for the kids to be safe while they are out hunting for clues.
- Things you are definitely going to need
– Paper
– Treasure Chest Goodie Boxes: this birthday party favor set comes with 24 treat boxes you can fill with candies & treats!
12. HOTEL PARTY
This hotel slumber party can be pricey but it will be worth it after the kids enjoy their stay! It also keeps your home CLEAN and mess-free.
- Decorations
Before the birthday celebrant arrives at the hotel room, have the place ready and decorated. This Official Teenager 13th Birthday Party Pack would be so cute to use for the hotel room. This pack includes a banner, black and gold “WARNING TEENAGER” balloons, and shiny metallic swirls.
- Things to consider
– Pick a hotel near home if possible. Get an adjoining room so you are able to monitor the party while also giving the kids some space.
– This party would be best with 4 kids in a room with 2 beds.
_ Pick a hotel with an indoor pool during the cold months or an outdoor pool during warm weather and remind guests to bring their swimsuits.
– Prepare some snacks for them. Ask the hotel if you can use a conference room to hold a “birthday party” to make cake and ice cream easier to serve.
– Set some ground rules and remind kids that the hotel has rules that need to be followed.
13. RED CARPET PARTY
A classy red carpet party is very fun. This is where kids can be creative. They will dress up as their favorite movie characters and walk the carpet like stars.
- Decorations
Of course, the party wouldn't be complete without the red carpet. Each guest will have the chance to walk down the red carpet while their pictures are taken. The birthday celebrant can either be the first to walk or for a grand entrance be the last one to arrive.
These movie party decorations will be a great addition to the setup. You can also have trophies to give to the best-dressed guest.
14. BRINGING BACK THE 80'S
An 80's party is always fun – the dancing, music, and dressing up! This era was very unique. All the loud and bright colors, extreme fashion, and different hairstyles. If you want your 80's birthday party to be epic, be sure to include as many 80s nostalgic ideas as you can. There are tons of fun ideas to help you make your theme party truly memorable and tons of fun.
- Decorations
This is an important part of the party. You will want to set up the party place with lots of colored decorations. This 80s Party Bundle will look great for the party. This party supplies set includes 2 pieces of covers for the table, a backdrop, an inflatable radio boombox and mobile phone, 95 pieces of balloons in different colors, a balloon chain, a black ribbon, and a balloon knotter. You might want to get some black lights for even more fun.
- Dress code
There are so many eye-popping fashion trends to choose from. Looking for what to wear shouldn't be hard now that 80s fashion is starting to become a trend again. Let's bring back those cool styles and have fun with them by having a dress code for your retro birthday bash.
There will definitely be plenty of legwarmers, neon clothing, animal prints, leather jackets & pants, checkered vests, and for sure hot pink. You can also put a twist to the dress code — making your guests come as their favorite 80s movie character.
- Music
Make a playlist of great 80s songs to really keep the party going. This is one of those birthday party activities for 13 year olds that their friends will talk about for weeks to come.
15. SPA DAY
Every girl's dream come true. No matter what age, a spa day will be something 13 year olds would get excited about. It's perfect for just a relaxing and pampering day which is what the birthday celebrant needs!
- Location
Most spas will offer services that can be enjoyed by people of almost any age. Check your local day spas to see what services they offer. Sometimes they will have “party services” that are commonly used for bachelorette parties but would also be great for a birthday party group.
- DIY Spa Party at Home
Sometimes the cost to go to a day spa can be prohibitive. In that case you can still have a great time doing a DIY Spa Day at home. Mom…invite a few of your friends over to help you as you pamper the girls. Do manicures, pedicures and facials! Or you can also get this BFF Beauty Spa set so they can do it on their own. Have your teen call her best friends for an amazing day of pampering.
16. MASQUERADE BALL
Masked parties give teenagers a chance to celebrate a party without being entirely sure of who the other guests are. The mystery of dancing and socializing with people you think you know but don't know adds some excitement and anticipation to the party. By the end of the evening, your guests will be able to discover that their assumptions were correct, but a surprise is always possible.
- Masks
You can either let them bring their own masks to the party or provide the masks yourself. Set a theme so that other guests will know what kind of mask to wear.
- Decorations
There are so many great decoration sets online that will save you time and money. The more colorful the better for a masquerade ball.
17. AMUSEMENT PARK
Of all the birthday party activities for 13 year olds…they may like this one the best! Teenagers love feeling some adrenaline. What's a better way than going to an amusement park. And what's even better is you don't have to prepare much or decorate. All you need to do is pick out an amusement park, invite the guests and go!
- Amusement Park Ideas
Here is a list of some of the best amusement parks to check out:
– Cedar Point: this famous park is located in Sandusky, Ohio. Cedar Point has 17 different roller coasters the kids will surely enjoy.
– Kings Island: is located in Mason, Ohio. This is the largest amusement park in the midwest.
– Knoebels: this park is old-fashioned and it is budget-friendly but it is still fun to go to.
– Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom: of course, this would be on the list! It's the happiest place on earth.
– Universal's Islands of Adventure: there are tons of fun rides – roller coasters, 3D rides, etc. There are also nearby restaurants.
– Hershey Park: this was originally made for employees of the Hershey Chocolate Factory but they have opened it to the public. The admission tickets for this park also include admission to Zooamerica.
There are amusement parks all over the place. Find one close to home and schedule a time for the party. Pick up the guests and let them spend the day riding rides and eating amusement park food!
18. ARCADE PARTY
An arcade party will be very fun for teenage boys. We all know they love hanging out with their friends at the arcade so why not just have their birthday party there too! They will be busy playing different games at the arcade the whole day!
Also, there are a lot of arcades that offer food and have restaurants. After playing, they can rest and snack on some food then play again. Even parents can join in the fun! Arcades are not just for kids, adults can have fun there too
Many cities now have flat-rate arcades where you pay a certain amount and can play as long as you want. This would be more cost-effective than the arcades that charge by the game.
19. BACKYARD BEACH PARTY
Who says beach parties are only meant to be at the beach? You can set up your own beach party in your backyard! Here is how:
- Decoration
These Beach Party Decorations will go well for this party! This set includes balloons, a HAPPY BIRTHDAY banner, a cake topper, tissue paper fans, paper lanterns, and palm tree foil balloons.
- Food
You can serve any type of food you can just serve them with some beach-themed designs. Like maybe a sandwich with an umbrella toothpick on it. You can also serve some coconut or slushies.
- Dresscode
The guests must be in their beach attire!
If you have a pool, great. If not you could always get some kiddie pools just for fun! The best part of this party will be the beach vibes coming from the decorations, food, and attire. For even more fun and laughs fill some water balloons up and have a water balloon fight.
20. ESCAPE ROOM PARTY
Escape rooms are popular for a reason…they are FUN! Even smaller cities usually have a few escape room venues to choose from. It is also a fairly affordable group activity.
If you don't want to go to an escape room…you can create one right in your own home. This will save a lot of money and can be just as fun.
A DIY escape room is a great way to celebrate your teen's birthday. It will be fun and exciting for everybody. There are 2 different ways you can make this happen.
There are lots of escape room games you can buy online or in stores to make an at-home escape room simple!
21. BOWLING PARTY
A bowling party will be a perfect bonding with friends and family. If you are planning to do this check out the different bowling alleys in your area so you can choose a great venue for the party. Reserve lanes ahead of time so you don't have any issues the day of the party.
To make things more interesting, you can have your own mini-tournaments – it can be done versus families or random groupings. Kids will surely enjoy this!
Bowling parties are a good birthday party activity for 13 year olds because both boys and girls can be invited.
22. GO-KART PARTY
Any kid will be excited to go go-karting! Even adults have go-karts on their bucket lists.
A few things to think about when planning a go-kart birthday party:
- Decide on the location. Depending on the time of year for the party will help you decide if you should choose an indoor track or outdoor tracks.
- The go-kart location will probably require signed permission slips for minors. Be sure to check on this ahead of time and get parents to sign off.
- Let kids know how many times they will get to ride the go-karts. The more often they ride, the more expensive the outing.
- See if the location has a party room so you can do cake and gifts while you are there.
23. MASTER CHEF
This will be a fun activity for kids who enjoy spending time in the kitchen. It is a cooking party! Simply teach the kids a recipe they want to make and let them make it themselves.
These types of birthday party activities for 13 year olds will be a great and fun time for both the kids and the parents. Plus there will be yummy food to eat. Here are some easy recipes you can try at the party:
– Easy Air Fryer Apple Turnovers
– Banana Peanut Butter Smoothie
If they want to get really creative in the kitchen they could try making and decorating the birthday cake!
24. HOME CARNIVAL
Bring the carnival to your backyard! Wouldn't that be fun? Here are some fun booth activities you can simply set up:
– Bouncy House: you can rent one or buy one.
– Fishing Game: get some fish & fishing rod toys then fill a big bucket with some water and you are good to go.
– Ping Pong Challenge: you are going to need a lot of ping pong balls for this and somewhere they can try to shoot it, maybe a cup. Whoever shoots the most balls in 10 seconds wins a prize!
– Spin the wheel: put some exciting prizes around the wheel for the kids. You can also make a DIY wheel if you have some time.
- Prizes
A carnival wouldn't be complete without prizes! Here is a list of some ideas:
– Squishy Toys
– Fidget Bracelets
– Plush Toys
25. PAJAMA PARTY
A sleepover pajama party is always a great bonding activity for the kids. Have they done this too many times already and ran out of things to do? I've got that handled! Here is a list of fun slumber party activities for them:
– TableTopics To Go Slumber Party: these are 40 cards with fun questions on them.
– Stationery Glitter Tattoo Studio: this set has 24 tattoo stencil designs, 6 colors of cosmetic glitters, 2 brushes for glitter application, and 1 pot of body adhesive. It's non-toxic, safe, and fully tested for easy application and removal.
– Girl Talk Truth or Dare Board Game for Teens: introduce your own kids to this exciting, updated edition of the iconic 1980s board game! This game can be played by up to 10 players.
– Kids Against Maturity: it's a fun kid-friendly game!
26. BONFIRE PARTY
Enjoy the night with a great big bonfire! It's a simple laid back party with some s'mores, roasted hotdogs, burgers, and some cold drinks. There are lots of activities you can do too. Like, sing some songs while someone plays the guitar, tell scary stories, or just roast some marshmallows.
To make your bonfire party more unforgettable, here are a couple of cool things to add to the party:
– Magical Flames (Create Colorful & Vibrant Flames for the Fire Pit)
27. MAKE YOUR OWN SHIRT
The kids will enjoy this party since they will be making shirts for themselves. They can tie-dye the shirts or even do iron-on patches. Have a variety of items available for the teens to pick from.
- Preparation
You are going to need a couple of things for this DIY party. Here is a list:
– Plain White Shirts
– Iron on Patches
– Tie-Dye Kit
I always have my kids tie-dye OUTSIDE because it can get very messy. Remember to have the kids wear gloves or their hands will be stained. When they are done with their shirts, they can bring these home as a party giveaway!
28. SKATING RINK OR ICE RINK PARTY
Roller skating and ice skating are one of the enjoyable activities your children will love to participate in. These kinds of celebrations are accessible any time of year, whenever the rink is available. Check out the rinks in your area!
Most roller rinks have tables and offer concessions. Many will also have party packages to help offset some of the costs. You should be able to have the whole party at the skating rink or ice rink and can keep the mess away from home.
29. LASER TAG
There are arenas dedicated to laser tag you can rent for your kid's birthday. Boys and girls alike can have a good time with friends, playing laser tag. You may keep the party private or public depending on your choice and budget.
It's a simple birthday idea but they will surely enjoy the day! Be sure to plan to feed the kids after the party because all that running will make them HUNGRY!
30. BREAKFAST FOR DINNER
Who doesn't love waffles and bacon?! Breakfast for dinner is always exciting. Guests can also come in their pajamas or they can also wear something comfy.
- Food Ideas
– Waffles
– Pancakes (make fun shapes)
– Bacon
– Eggs / Omelets
– French Toast
There is so much to choose from! You can also set up the food buffet style so they can feel like they are in a hotel. If you're thinking it might be too much work for you, you can also get frozen waffles so you can just heat them up or maybe set up a pancake station so they can cook it themselves.
This party works great in conjunction with a Pajama Party.
31. PHOTOBOOTH
Kids nowadays love taking pictures and posting them on social media. Set up different booths around the house for them to take pictures.
- Preparation
Here is a list of the things you are going to need for this party:
– Photobooth Party Hats
It will be tons of fun and memorable with all the pictures.
If you have a really large budget you can actually rent a real photo booth!
32. LITTLE KIDS PARTY
Think about it, celebrating a little kids' party for one last time can be fun and nostalgic all at the same time.
- Decorations
Colorful birthday decorations will be perfect for this type of party. And of course, there should be some party cone hats for everybody.
- Party Ideas
– Little Kid Games like Pin the tail on the donkey or a Piñata will keep kids laughing.
– Getting a Clown to do some entertaining will bring smiles. If they can make balloon animals, even better! When the budget is tight, you can ask a friend to dress up and come entertain the kids.
– Hire a Magician for a show will amaze these 13-year-olds!
33. SWEET 13
This party will be packed with sugar. Candies, chocolate, cakes, and anything sweet will be served. Be sure to monitor the kids, we don't want them getting sick from TOO much sugar.
Feel free to serve other foods too just make sure the sweets are the center of attention. This party works great in conjunction with many of the other themed parties on this list.
Be sure to have goodie bags available to send home all the extra sweets with the guests.
34. DANCE PARTY
Everybody loves dancing. Dancing makes us feel free. For a killer dance party, you will need a great playlist to get the party going. If you have the budget, you could also hire a professional DJ for the party. The teenagers will love that and it takes the stress off the parents!
Be sure to set up somewhere spacious so there is room for them to dance. Have the guests come in color-themed outfits too. Hang a disco ball and set up lots of fun lighting.
Teach the kids some line dances and have dance contests with prizes.
35. BACKYARD CONCERT
Concerts can be expensive to attend. If the birthday kid loves music why not just hire a local band to perform in your backyard. This would be just as fun and many local bands are amazing!
The guests or the birthday celebrant can also organize performances so they can also be a part of the program. It will be unforgettable.
Don't forget to give the band any song requests ahead of time. Take lots of photos and even have the band sign t-shirts, etc. You never know…the local band could end up FAMOUS one day!
36. POOL PARTY
Before scheduling a pool birthday bash, verify with your teen first. Boys and girls may feel awkward about their bodies at this age, so make sure this is something he or she would like to do. If you don't have a backyard swimming pool, most community pools and country clubs offer their facilities for a small price. You could even ask to have the party at a friend's or relatives pool.
Keep the food simple so teenagers can grab something to eat and then keep the fun going. Pizza, sandwiches, and birthday cake are all great options for this type of celebration.
Provide lots of floaties and consider pool volleyball for some added entertainment.
37. OLYMPICS PARTY
An Olympics-themed birthday party is great for active kids. Think of it as a mini track meet or field day. List out some events that would be easy to set up. Also, throw some silly events into the mix for some side-splitting laughter.
- Game Ideas
Here are some ideas to help you out:
– Long Jump
– Short Meter Run
– Three-Legged Race
– Egg Toss
These ideas can easily be done in your backyard or at a park in the neighborhood. Don't forget prizes for the winners.
38. COLOR TWISTER FIGHT
If the guests are okay with getting a little messy you can do a Color Twister party. This is best held OUTSIDE. 🙂
It will just be a game of twister but with more twists to it! The twist is adding some colored shaving cream to the twister mat. It will be so much fun and hilarious! It will look like they have gone to a color fun run. Trust me, the mess will be worth it.
39. BAKING PARTY
Do you have children who love to bake? This party would be great not only does it brings out the creative side of the kids but also enhances their baking skills. Don't forget to ready up your kitchen as it will be turned into a bakery.
The kids can bake cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and more. You might want to give each guest their own personalized apron for a sweet touch. Another idea is to bring in a professional baker to teach the kids decorating techniques for cookies, cupcakes, etc.
- Games
This party can be mixed up with games such as:
– Kitchen Mystery Bag Guessing Game
– Cupcake Decorating Contest
40. TRAMPOLINE PARK
There are a lot of ways to throw an awesome birthday party for your kids without spending a small fortune. Throwing a party at a trampoline park is one of the options and this is one party idea that is very popular nowadays.
Be sure to get parents to sign permission slips before the party. Rent a room at the trampoline park so you can do gifts and cake while you are there.
41. PAINTBALL PARTY
There are paintball parks all over the country. You can either rent out the whole place or you can just go and have the kids play with other players too.
This is a fun and active shooting game where you shoot balls of paint at each other. They are going to have a blast playing the whole day! Make sure to bring snacks for them, they will get hungry with all the running.
The parks will have everything that they will need for an awesome time! Protective gear is always required. Remember to check on whether the park you use requires permission slips for minors!
42. HIKING PARTY
If you have an active teenager who loves outdoor activities, a hiking party is not to be missed. Be sure to tell guests ahead of time that hiking will be involved and to dress appropriately.
Plan the hike location out ahead of time and take into consideration the health and activity level of all guests. Don't pick a hike that would be considered dangerous because you don't want anyone to get hurt.
Take sack lunches along and allow time for socializing and relaxing along the way.
- Preparation
You will need some stuff to bring along with you. Here is a list of ideas for you:
– Bug Spray
– First Aid Kit
– Picnic Basket
– Water
43. LUAU PARTY
With some affordable supplies and a bit of creativity, you can create a tropical holiday paradise for guests to enjoy this summer without ever leaving your garden. A Hawaiian Luau is a tropical, fun, and casual birthday party theme idea to enjoy with your family and friends.
- Decorations
This luau party decoration will catch your guests' attention. Include these Hawaiian leis too for the guests to wear.
Some other ideas to make this luau birthday party special are:
- Do a short class on how to do the hula dance and then do a hula dance contest.
- If you are really wanting an authentic luau then roast a pig!
- Don't forget to make some “virgin” tropical drinks for the teens.
- Buy tiki torches to put around the yard.
44. ARROW TAG
Arrow tag or Archery Tag is a fast-paced, incredibly fun, and safe sport played worldwide. It is like dodgeball, paintball, and archery merged together in one action-packed game!
This is played on a battlefield in your backyard which can be DIYed or you can look for a rental that includes all the equipment. Foam-tipped arrows are used in this game so it is completely safe. It is played with teams so the party can include a lot of guests.
Be sure to go over the rules before you begin since some guests may not be familiar with the game.
45. NERF PARTY
Everybody loves playing with nerf guns! Yes! Everybody! If you are planning to throw a Nerf Party here are some tips.
- Gather Resources
In order to start your nerf party, you should create and have the following resources:
– Nerf Bases: this will give them somewhere to hide and duck while playing. You can make one if you have the time. First, you need to get some empty boxes of different sizes and shapes. Next, you need to be creative here. Grab some paint and color the boxes – maybe make them like a camouflage style. Last but not the least, tape a group of boxes to create a fort. Spray some paint on the boxes to identify teams (example: Team 1 or Team 2). Use some rocks to anchor these boxes, it will prevent them from falling over.
However, if you don't have enough time to do this DIY nerf base, you can also get mesh nets to create them. Just throw it over some chairs or sawhorses if you have one.
– Battlefield: This can be set up in your basement or maybe your backyard.
– Nerf Targets: like this zombie shooting target or this electronic target. Or you could also arrange empty cans for them to shoot at.
- Think of a Theme
It would be better if we mix the party a little bit. If your teenage son/daughter is a fan of any online shooting games that would be a great idea to make it into a theme. For example, Fortnite, Call of Duty, Valorant, etc.
- Party Supplies
– Nerf Guns: this is a must! You can either provide these for the guests or they can bring their own.
– Nerf Tactical Vest set: this includes a vest, refill bullet darts, a bag for the bullet darts, clip magazine, darts wristband, mask, and protective glasses. It's perfect for this nerf party!
46. FUN BUS OR LIMO PARTY
There are lots of companies that do party bus rentals and limo rentals. If you have your own bus or RV you can use, that will work too. Here are some fun activities they can do depending on what you rent:
– Theme Party
– Board, Card, or Trivia Games
– Sing-off
– Dance Party
– Charades
There's something about party buses and limos that makes the drive more fun!
47. MOCKTAIL BAR
This will give the birthday celebrant the chance to create his or her own signature mocktail. A few days before the party let the birthday kid work on creating their own signature mocktail. And then, on the day of the celebration, install a mocktail bar for the guests so they can also create their own mixture.
Your child can distribute their signature mocktail to everyone present. Once the guests have created their own mocktails…have a contest and vote for the best one.
Make the party even more fun by giving out personalized drink glasses for the guests.
48. FAMILY FEUD
A fun activity for all the guests. A little friendly competition isn't bad. If you've seen the show, you will know how to play this. It's a simple game.
- Making your own board
In the show, they have a game board that reveals the answers to the question. You can make a DIY board at home. If you already have your questions just print out the answers and cut them into boxes so you can stick them back somewhere like a blank wall or if you have a whiteboard that can also work. Then, just face them front when revealing the answer.
If you don't have time to do that, you can just announce that their answer is on the list. But, of course, having a board makes it more real.
- Rules
– To play this game there must be 2 teams with 3 to 5 players on each team.
– You can either team up with your family or to make things more interesting, create the teams randomly – maybe doing a count-off.
– Decide on how many questions should be asked per round.
– The last family wins the game.
- How to play the game
Two families will go head to head until there is only 1 family left. Each game can consist of 3 questions (depending on how many you decide per game)
For the first question of the game, 1 representative will go head to head with the opposing team's representative. After the first question is asked, the first one who rings the bell gets to answer first. (If you don't have a bell, you can check this service bell) If that person gets it right they can choose whether to continue answering or not. However, if the answer was wrong the other person will have a chance to answer.
Let's say the answer was correct and the team decides to play and enumerate all the answers, as long as the answers they give are correct they can continue answering but if they give 3 incorrect answers the other team gets to steal. If they get just 1 answer on the board they win the round for the first question.
If you decide to have 3 questions per game, the family that gets 2 out of 3 wins and will head to the next round.
- Game Prize Ideas
– Skittles & Starburst Variety Pack
– Coupons (Restaurant, Spa, etc.)
49. ROAD TRIP
You will need to plan this birthday road trip in advance. A road trip is always fun. There are so many places you can go to. Whether it is someplace where you can see and appreciate the beauty of nature or a big city adventure. It's always nice to spend some time with your family and friends.
Decide if this will be a family road trip where the birthday kid gets to pick the destination. Or will it be a trip that allows for a couple of friends to come along? Your budget may help determine which option will work best for your family.
50. YES DAY
Too busy to plan a party? This idea would be perfect for you, you don't have to plan, decorate or set up. This is both an easy idea and a hard one. All parents need to do is say yes to everything the birthday celebrant wishes. I am a hundred percent positive your kid is going to love this idea.
It's pretty simple actually, for the whole day he/she will be your boss. You have to say yes to anything because it's “yes day”. Before doing this, set some boundaries but not so many that your teen will still enjoy their day. If you need inspiration watch the movie Yes Day starring Jennifer Garner.
WHICH BIRTHDAY PARTY ACTIVITIES FOR 13 YEAR OLDS WILL YOU CHOOSE?
I have given you 50 amazing birthday party activities for 13 year olds to make your child's day spectacular! Which one do you think they would like best?
If you need more ideas for the 13th birthday…check these out:
- Best Gifts for a Girl on the 13th Birthday
- How to Make a 13th Birthday Special
- 20 Ideas for a Girls 13th Birthday
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