Turning 13 is often considered a big deal because it marks the beginning of the teenage years. Mentally, 13-year-olds are starting to become more independent and self-aware. They may start to question authority figures and think critically about the world around them. This can be an exciting but also challenging time for children as they navigate the new territory of adolescence. That’s why you should throw a fabulous birthday party for your soon-to-be-teen.
Set up an outdoor movie screen and projector in your backyard and have a movie night under the stars with all of their friends. Supply a bean bag and blanket for each kid for comfy viewing. All the food and drinks should be finger foods they can eat while watching the movie, such as hot dogs and quesadillas. Rent a popcorn machine for the night so kids can eat and eventually toss it around at each other. Set up a candy bar, where they can fill up a bag to take home along with them as their party favor.
Instead of re-creating the moves at home, take the kids to a movie theater for a private showing of their favorite film. Renting an entire movie theater is more affordable than you would think; it can hold as many friends as they want to invite, plus it would be pretty cool for your son or daughter to brag about their private movie experience.
Venue pick: The Art Houz Movies in Las Vegas, Nevada
Host a DIY craft party where your teen and their friends can create their own personalized crafts like jewelry, canvas art, or tie-dye t-shirts. Make sure you are fully stalked on art supplies and cleaning supplies - things will get messy with a bunch of gaggling teens. Always have more snacks on hand than you think you need. Each teen can bring their art home after the party is over.
Set up a mock dance club in your basement. Have all the kids submit their favorite songs to create an ultimate playlist. Decorate your home club with lights, disco balls, and a “bar” with plenty of soda, juices, and water. Let the kids dance the night away to their favorite tunes.
Host a game night at a local entertainment and amusement center. These centers usually offer fantastic party packages that make it easy for you to host a party for teens, but the party is elevated with more mature games like ax throwing, golf simulators, and go-kart racing. Set up competitions among friends.
Venue pick: BIG - Best in Games in Ypsilanti, Michigan
Plan a fun day out in the sun at the beach. Set up carpools to get all the kids to the beach, where you will have to set up a large space of blankets and chairs. Don’t forget any essential items that the teens will most likely need: water, sunscreen, music, and lots of healthy food and snack options. A beach day can be relaxing even with a bunch of teens.
Create a relaxing spa atmosphere at home with face masks, nail polish, and soothing music. All the teens can enjoy mini-facials, paint their nails, and spa-inspired meals. Finger sandwiches and tea are perfect for the more mature teen that loves a good spa day with friends.
Hosting your kid’s party at a local hotel became an increasingly popular trend in 2021, and it is here to stick around. Hotels offer all-inclusive party options, with event space, food options, activities, and overnight rooms, all with cleanup included. It will make your event-planning life that much easier, and keep your kids thanking you for planning such a cool and unique birthday celebration.
Venue pick: Lorenzo Hotel in Dallas, Texas
Remember to pick and plan a party that your teen has agreed to. Center the birthday celebration around the teens having fun and some independence. Your new teen will want a 13th birthday party that is a fun and memorable day with all of their friends.
Use our Birthday Party Checklist so you remember all the necessities for the big day!
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