Cool Birthday Cues

Winter birthday parties mean keeping it warm. These unique ideas for non-backyard birthday bashes think ‘outside of the box’, but thankfully, are held indoors.

Junior superheros-in-training will want to invite some of their buds to their super party. It’s a given. So super-size the themed cake and licensed party favours by inviting their famed spandex-wearing world protector from My Perfect Superhero Party. Unlike some costumed-characters for hire, these dressed-up impersonators are extremely knowledgeable about the superhero they are standing in for and will play games, have guests take an oath, teach them special moves and apply tattoos. Getting this personal with Batman, Spider-man and more (they offer princesses and fun toddler heroes, too) will be something the kids will definitely celebrate.

You know your kid is a whiz, so what better place to host a LEGO-obsessed birthday event than at the recently opened Wizz Kidz which offers weekly classes in both music and LEGO construction. Available for birthday boys and girls aged 3 to 7, and the party can be LEGO specific, or a mix of a music and building block bonanza. The guest of honour and friends will have fun with age-appropriate challenges like building LEGO mazes and timed tallest tower competitions using their creativity and imagination. That’s a party you can really build on.

Take a former Muppets puppeteer, some faux cats (one genuine), a live dove, and a 36-year career in entertaining kids, and you have a show for the ages. TV Puppetree specializes in children’s puppet shows across Ontario from preschool age and up, and for birthday parties they can handle small and large groups. Kids will love their show “Tom’s Amazing Cats”, but remember to check with guests who may have allergies to cats, fur, or feathers.

Kids got game? Great. Invite up to 20 of their closest friends, block off 50 feet of parking in front of your house and the party rolls in, literally. Games on Wheels brings it all, and we mean ‘all’. Five or more HD television screens, leather couches, stadium seating and every game console under the sun, in a setting that’s way cooler than your basement. Hosted by a passionate game coach who can help kids get their game on (no matter what they are playing), Games on Wheels is generally recommended for kids six and up, but younger ages can be accommodated if a supervising adult stays on site.

Stars are born everyday (they just don’t always require an epidural). If they seem to have a love of the spotlight, try a party that will totally pop. My Popstar Party will bring the kids into a genuine recording studio (recommended for ages five and up), let them sing away as they record their favourite song and take home their new ‘hit CD’ as a party favour. What could be better than a Justin or Selena song in your child’s own voice? (Bring earplugs.)

Get things cooking for kids aged 4 to 16 who want a customized, creative experience. The Chef Upstairs will teach the star of the party how to make their favourite dish or decorate desired sweets. Using seasonal and local foods, The Chef Upstairs will also engage them in food games, decorate the room, offer personalized recipe booklets to take home, and can accommodate allergies.

Having a party at home can always be a hit, but if you feel like doing something extra special, these ideas might be a fit. Tested by Alison R.