10 Awesome Birthday Party Ideas from Moms Who Celebrated with Their Kids During the Pandemic

With the pandemic still affecting our lives, it feels surreal to think about how long we’ve been navigating this new normal. As I sift through my phone’s photo gallery (because, of course, I’m a millennial mom), I can’t help but say, “Wow, that was just last year?” It truly feels like we’ve been in a “twilight zone” for ages!

Now that our kids are back in school and life is inching toward normalcy, it’s time to discuss something we’ve all missed: birthday parties! I’m thrilled that my daughter can finally celebrate her 10th birthday with more friends, but one question remains—how do you throw a fun, safe birthday party during a pandemic?

While I have my own ideas, I also reached out to fellow moms who managed to host birthday parties in recent months. The simplest answer might be to skip the party altogether, but our kids deserve a cool celebration after everything they’ve endured this past year at home. They need a special birthday to mark their resilience!

Here’s how to pull off a safe and delightful birthday bash for your little ones during these unusual times.

Tip #1: Keep the Guest List Small!

Now isn’t the time to invite the entire class! Given that last year’s virtual schooling left many kids without strong connections, narrowing down the guest list will also lower the risk of COVID exposure. Plus, a smaller gathering allows for more meaningful interactions. Aim for 3-5 close friends or cousins to create an intimate atmosphere.

Tip #2: Touch Base with Other Parents

Yes, I’m encouraging you to ask questions! If you follow Tip #1, you might already have a sense of how things are going. However, it’s always a good idea to check in with the parents of your child’s close friends. Ensure that they feel comfortable with in-person gatherings and have been taking necessary precautions. If they’re not ready, that’s perfectly fine—consider setting up a virtual call to include them.

Tip #3: Individualize Everything—Especially the Food!

Even with a small group, you want to minimize germ-sharing. Skip the buffet and go for individually packaged snacks. This could also double as a fun party favor! Use stickers or markers to personalize cups, plates, and bowls, making it easy for kids to identify their items. Serve food individually to limit cross-contact.

Tip #4: Skip the Candle Blowing!

Research has shown that blowing out candles can spread bacteria—and during a pandemic, it’s best to avoid that risk altogether. Instead, consider alternatives like letting your child blow out a single candle on their own cupcake or even skipping candles entirely.

Tip #5: Encourage Mask Wearing!

Whether your gathering is indoors or outdoors, it’s wise to have everyone wear masks. Plan activities that allow for breaks outdoors so kids can enjoy some fresh air. For a fun twist, consider getting themed masks that match the party to make it memorable!

Bonus Tip: Avoid Being Dishonest with Parents!

Transparency is key—don’t mislead parents about the party’s nature.

10 Creative Birthday Party Ideas from Real Moms

Rent an Ice Cream Truck: For a drive-by parade, one mom rented an ice cream truck and treated everyone driving by!
Self-Care Party for a One-Year-Old: A mom hosted a cute party with “babymosas,” a tot-cuterie board, and even a massage demonstration.
Virtual Paint Party: One mom organized a virtual paint night with supplies delivered to friends, and it was a hit!
Backyard Laser Tag: A classic backyard party with laser tag and a bonfire made for an unforgettable day.
Private Movie Theater Rental: Renting a theater for a private screening turned out to be a fun and safe option.
Outdoor Party with Vaccinated Adults: One mom threw a backyard birthday party, ensuring all adults were vaccinated.
Theme Park Celebration: Traveling to a theme park for a birthday bash can also be a great adventure.
Hotel Sleepover: Hosting a sleepover in a hotel simplifies cleanup and can be an exciting experience.
Glamping Adventure: Glamping brought a unique twist to a birthday celebration in the great outdoors.
DIY Drive-In Movie Night: Setting up a drive-in movie experience at home can be a fun way to engage kids.

Ultimately, the most important thing is keeping your family safe. Whether you opt for a large celebration or a simple family gathering with takeout, make sure it’s what works best for you!

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Summary:

This article provides a list of 10 creative birthday party ideas for kids that parents successfully executed during the pandemic. It emphasizes the importance of safety, smaller gatherings, and creative alternatives to traditional celebrations. From ice cream trucks to outdoor laser tag, these suggestions offer a range of fun options while prioritizing health.