How to Host a Children's Birthday Bowling Party

It is always a challenge to come up with a fun themed birthday idea for children. One theme that always seems to rise up to the challenge is the bowling party. Just about every kid seems to have a good time when it comes to a bowling party. The parties are super simple for the parents to throw as the entertainment and clean up are taken care of by bowling center staff so there is no worries of the home being turn upside down by screaming overexcited young children. There still is the matter of planning, invitations, food, and party favors.

Planning

It is best to call the bowling center at least one if not two months ahead of the planned party to reserve your lanes and party room. Most bowling centers are very accommodating with your request and may feature a variety of party packages that include a meal, beverages, cake, and favors.

Keep in mind the needs of your group based on the time of day the party is planned. If the bowling date is around lunch time, you may want to consider including a pizza or hot dog lunch to your party. If the center allows, you may even want to consider bringing in food from home or outside vendor. If the party will be occurring mid afternoon or after dinner hours, there will be no need for a meal, but do plan on birthday cake or cupcakes for the guests.

Invitations

If time allows, consider making the invitations at home. A simple "bowling ball" invitation involves tracing a compact disc on a black piece of construction paper. Cut out this circular shape and add three white stickers for the finger holes. On the back of the invitation, write out in white or silver marker the specifics of the party. Be sure to include RSVP instructions on the invitation so you have an accurate count prior to the big day. Also make sure to remind the party guests to bring socks for the bowling shoes. Once the invitation is complete, seal them up in a paper cd cover, write the guests address on back, attach postage stamp, and mail.

Food

The party themed food may be simply a birthday cake or cupcakes. The cake can be outsourced to a local baker or grocer or simply made at home. Whether purchasing or making a cake at home, try to stick with bowling theme. One simple theme could be re-creating a bowling alley on the cake with the candles serving as pins. If a large cake sounds a bit overwhelming then consider cupcakes. Cupcakes are easy to serve your party guests as they create less labor on the party hosts and kids seem to enjoy them all the same.

If the party includes providing lunch or dinner, consider the food party packages offered by the bowling center or consider bringing in some pizzas or sandwich platters if the bowling center allows it. When booking your party request a party room or at least a large table with chairs to accommodate the birthday boy or girl and guests for meals, cake, and gifts.