Hosting a backyard birthday party can be a fun and memorable celebration of your special day. From DIY decorations to creative food and drink stations, there are many ways to make your backyard bash one-of-a-kind.
If you're looking to start planning an adult backyard birthday party, it helps to have some inspiration. Let's take a look at our 11 tips and ideas for a memorable backyard bash!
DIY Outdoor Party Decorations
Outdoor parties give you the chance to incorporate your decorations into the natural landscape. From balloon banners to fun lighting, there are tons of ways to wow your guests with decor that stands out. Here are some ideas to get you started.
1. Balloons and Banners
Balloons and banners create a festive atmosphere and make the backyard feel like a real party zone. Balloons can be used in various ways, from simple clusters tied to fence posts or trees to more intricate garlands. You can even create a balloon arch to serve as a backdrop for party photos. Remember to find a mix of balloon colors that complement your party theme. For a garden-themed party, for example, look for pink and green balloons to match. If you create a balloon arch, add white or sparkling garland to your masterpiece.
Banners are a great way to personalize your outdoor party. Order a custom banner with a "Happy Birthday" message or get goofy and print a funny photo of yourself onto a banner! Hang it on your porch to welcome guests to your celebration, or try tying it between two trees. Banners also come in tons of designs and colors, so depending on your party theme, you can customize this decoration to fit your style. For example, if you're a sports fan, add your team's logo onto your banner to complement your birthday message.
2. Mason Jar Table Centerpieces
Mason jars are versatile and easy to find, so they can be a great addition to your party. To add some light to your outdoor celebration, create Mason jar centerpieces with small candles inside or bunched-up string lights. Or, fill Mason jars with flowers and tie a ribbon around each for a touch of elegance.
Because they are so easy to work with, you can get extra creative with Mason jars. For an outdoor-themed party, use these jars to create terrariums. Layer sand, soil, pebbles, and small plants in the jars, and finish the look by painting the lids to match your theme. Not only are these great centerpieces, but your guests can take them home as favors, too!
3. Party Lighting Ideas
Creative lighting can transform your backyard into a magical party wonderland. String lights are a popular option for outdoor parties because they're easy to hang and provide an inviting glow. Choose from fairy lights, Edison bulbs, or LED strings to create the perfect ambiance. You can wrap these lights around trees, drape them along fences, or weave them through your patio furniture.
Another lighting option for your party is paper lanterns. Paper lanterns come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, which makes them perfect for any theme. You can string them up just like you would with string lights or cluster them in specific areas, like around food tables, so guests can see when it gets darker. For an eco-friendly option, opt for solar-powered lights you can stake into the ground to create an illuminated path. Your guests will appreciate the glow from these lights, and it helps everyone get around once the sun sets.
Fun Activity Ideas for a Backyard Birthday Party
Keeping guests entertained is crucial for a memorable backyard birthday party. Let's take a look at some fun activities you can plan to keep the celebration going.
4. Outdoor Games and Sports
A backyard birthday party wouldn't be complete without some friendly competition. Get everyone involved with various outdoor games and sports for all ages and skill levels. Set up a few classic lawn games like cornhole, horseshoes, or ladder ball. You could also bring out a volleyball or badminton net or organize a relay race or obstacle course.
For a unique twist on outdoor games, consider creating giant versions of popular board games like Jenga or Connect Four. These supersized games are great for collaboration and get your guests mingling as the party goes on.
5. DIY Photo Booth
Who doesn't love snapping photos at a party? A DIY photo booth is a great way to capture memories and let your guests get creative. Set up an area in your backyard as a photo booth and create a fun backdrop with balloons, streamers, and a few stools where people can sit. If you're throwing a themed celebration, think of creative ways to incorporate the theme. For an '80s party, create a backdrop with disco lights and a neon banner, and encourage guests to wear their favorite '80s hairdo!
No matter the theme, you can customize your photo booth and create great memories. Don't forget to shop for photo booth props like silly hats, glasses, and signs with phrases or quotes. Encourage your guests to take selfies or set up a camera and tripod for a more polished setup. After the party, you can create a photo album or online gallery to share with everyone.
6. Arts and Crafts Station
An arts and crafts station is a great way for guests of all ages to express themselves. Set up a table with materials and tools like paints, brushes, glue, glitter, and canvases. You can also set up a specific project for guests to create, like painting rocks or designing party hats.
To keep with the outdoor party theme, consider setting up nature-inspired crafts, such as decorating plant pots or creating wind chimes from found materials. Make sure to have plenty of seating and workspace so that everyone can participate.
With these decoration and activity ideas, your next outdoor birthday party is sure to be a hit. Don't be afraid to get creative and personalize the details to make your celebration unique and memorable. Happy party planning!
Food and Drink Stations for a Backyard Birthday Bash
No party is complete without tasty food and drinks to keep guests satisfied. From self-serve taco bars to build-your-own burger stations, these culinary experiences cater to all types of taste buds. Don’t forget to serve your food on themed tableware that complements your backyard event.
7. Themed Snack Bar Ideas
A themed snack bar is a great way to get creative at your backyard birthday party. Based on the theme, you can craft snack creations that are tasty and eye-catching. Here are some ideas for different themed snacks.
Superheroes: Serve up popcorn with colorful toppings resembling superheroes' colors, such as red, blue, and yellow M&Ms or sprinkles. You can also make sandwiches with themed toppers or serve individual bags of chips with superhero labels.
Beach: Bring the beach vibes to your snack bar with items like mini fruit kabobs, Goldfish crackers, and beach-themed cookies. You can also include a sand pail filled with cheese puffs to represent beach balls.
Sports: Set up a sports fans' paradise with cookies shaped like basketballs or footballs, different game-day dips, and a veggie platter in your team's colors!
8. Birthday Cake and Themed Desserts
Birthday cakes and desserts are essential to a birthday bash, so make sure you go all out for your backyard celebration. Shop for different dessert accessories like cupcake picks and special cake stands to set up your dessert table, then get to baking!
If you're feeling ambitious, try creating a tiered cake with elements from your party's theme, such as fondant figurines or edible decorations. For a garden party, try a layer cake with light blue, pink, and white, and adorn it with floral decorations for the perfect finish.
If you want to include other desserts, set up a dessert table with themed treats like cake pops, macarons, and cookies. If you have a color theme you want to stick to, order bulk candies in one color to set up your themed buffet with chocolates, gumballs, sour gummies, and more.
9. Refreshing Drinks for Guests
On a warm summer day, you need plenty of cold drinks to refresh your guests. Serve ice-cold lemonade, iced tea, and fruit-infused water for some flavorful options.
For a fun adult twist, add a DIY cocktail and mocktail station where guests can mix their drinks. Supply a variety of alcohol or alcohol-free alternatives, fruits, and garnishes to customize their concoctions. For example, for a fruity cocktail bar, supply rum and vodka, different fruit juices (like pineapple and orange), and tasty garnishes like lemon and lime slices.
Lastly, don't forget to supply plenty of ice and reusable cups, keeping beverages cool and ready to grab throughout the event.
Party Favors and Goodie Bags
Before the party ends, you want a chance to thank your guests for showing up and making your birthday memorable. Here are some party favor ideas they won't forget.
10. Customized Thank You Gifts
Customizing your party favors adds a special touch that guests are sure to love. For example, personalized candles, hand-stamped keychains, or engraved coasters can all serve as charming mementos for your backyard bash.
Remember to include thank you notes in your goodie bags, expressing gratitude for your attendees and any gifts they brought.
11. Easy DIY Party Favor Ideas
Creating do-it-yourself (DIY) party favors is a budget-friendly and imaginative way to express your appreciation. Here are some great ideas for DIY favors:
Homemade treats: Bake cookies or other sweets, wrap them in cellophane bags, and attach personalized tags. These delicious gifts can also double as a dessert table addition.
Seed packets: Buy flower or herb seeds in bulk, and package them in small envelopes or glassine bags. Attach a note that includes planting instructions and a quote related to growth or gratitude.
Activity kits: Create kits tailored to your party's theme, such as a small beach playset, superhero masks and capes, or sports-themed hats and keychains. Guests of all ages will appreciate these entertaining tokens.
If you're planning a backyard birthday party you don't want to forget, Party City has you covered. Our birthday decorations include colorful balloons, custom banners, DIY photo booth supplies, and so much more. Plus, we've got a range of themed decorations to make your celebration unforgettable. So sit back, relax, and browse our birthday party supplies today, or visit us at a store near you!
Backyard Birthday Party Ideas FAQs
What should I consider when deciding on the theme?
First of all, think about the birthday star's preferences and interests. Consider their favorite colors, hobbies, or sports, and use that as a starting point. Also, think about the age group and number of guests you're expecting so you can plan the right activities and find the perfect decorations. For example, a theme like 'pirate party' might be more suited to younger kids, while a 'garden tea party' can be more appropriate for a teenage girl's birthday.
Can I DIY, or is it better to hire professionals?
This will largely depend on your budget, time, and skills. If you're on a tight budget, tapping into your creative side and getting some DIY inspiration from Pinterest or YouTube can be a fun and cost-effective way to throw a party. On the other hand, hiring professionals can make the event hassle-free and better executed, but it also costs more. If you're unsure about your capabilities in certain areas, you could mix the two – do some tasks yourself and hire professional help for others, such as catering or entertainment.
What activities can I plan for a backyard birthday party?
There are plenty of activities suitable for different ages and tastes. Some examples include:
Outdoor games such as relay races, scavenger hunts, or water balloon fights
DIY crafts like painting ceramics, making tie-dye shirts, or creating flower crowns
Interactive activities like a DIY pizza station, s'mores bar, or self-serve popcorn machines
Organized age-appropriate sports games such as soccer, volleyball, or frisbee
Entertainment like hiring a face painter, bubble performer, or petting zoo
Remember to consider aspects like age, interests, and physical abilities when planning activities for your guests.
What are some common backyard birthday party mistakes to avoid?
A few mistakes to watch out for as you plan your party include:
Over-planning: While it's important to be prepared, remember to leave room for spontaneity and free play.
Ignoring dietary restrictions: Make sure to accommodate guests who have allergies, are vegan, or have other dietary needs.
Forgetting about weather contingencies: Have a backup plan in case of rain, extreme heat, or other unfavorable weather conditions.
Focusing only on the kids: Consider games and activities that will engage adult guests as well to ensure everyone has a good time.