2019 is the year of the movie-themed birthday party! With so many reboots and sequels hitting theaters, it’s no surprise that birthday party themes are centered around lovable characters and powerful superheroes, in addition to some favorites like llamas and sloths. Keep scrolling to see the top trends for kids birthday parties that will make your planning a cinch.
Mary Poppins
Hosting a Mary Poppins-themed party is an idea that's practically perfect in every way. With the release of Mary Poppins Returns in December 2018, it's no surprise the theme will be popular in the coming year. Kite crafts, treats made with a spoonful of sugar and adorable invites like those we found at Kara's Party Ideas make this birthday party theme a must.
Dumbo
In March you can head to the big top to see Tim Burton's reimagined Dumbo, but in the meantime, you can make your carnival dreams come true with a Dumbo-themed party! Nutter Butter treats, lots of colors and let's not forget images of our favorite, big-eared elephant! You can deck your party out in style with printables from Where the Green Grass Grows.
Baby Shark
Baby shark, do do do do do do...If you can't get the catchy tune out of your head, it may be time for a Baby Shark-themed party! We love this letterboard idea from Easy Lemon Squeezy and the simple decor items, like a stuffed shark and themed cupcakes. The predator of the seas never looked so adorable!
Wonder Woman
Superheroes are forever popular but this warrior woman has reached new heights. From favors to costumes to cakes, we love the easy-to-recreate ideas at from Cristy at Pretty My Party including the superhero photo booth and fun popcorn boxes!
The Secret Life of Pets
The newest installment of The Secret Life of Pets 2 arrives in theaters summer of 2019 and that means it's the perfect time to throw a party with your fave characters like Max and Gidget! Make it easy on yourself and use Hostess snowball cakes like these from Tater Tots & Jello for a dessert that's both fun and festive.
Llamas & Sloths
If 2016 was the year of the woodland creature and 2017 the year of the flamingo, then 2018 is the year of the llama (and also, maybe the sloth). From sweet baby shower themes to full-on party games (pin the tail on the llama, anyone?) not since Anna Dewdney first began the beloved Llama, Llama series has this creature been so popular among the youngest members of our households. (We think Anna would smile about this trend.) We love this simple llama cake topper kit (ears, eyes and mouth) that transforms your theme instantly (some piping skills required).
Frozen
You'll have to wait until November 2019 to catch Frozen 2 in theaters, but you won't have to let go of your dreams of hosting a Frozen-themed birthday party! Perfect for a winter party, blue-colored treats and plenty of your fave characters can top a dessert table like this from Two Sister Crafting for an instant theme. Don't forget the fun snowman crafts!
How to Train Your Dragon
How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World hits theaters in Feb. 2019 so it's no surprise that it will be a popular birthday theme this year. Vikings, dragons and beautiful outdoor imagery will make bring Hiccup and Toothless to life for your little's celebration, especially when using items from Square Party Printables!
Detective Pikachu
Pokemon is still a thing and that's because of the new Detective Pikachu film. Deck your kiddos party after the beloved character and don't forget all the fun Pokeballs and treat bags, like these adorable catchalls from The Homes I Have Made.
Dora the Explorer
The live-action Dora the Explorer movie comes into town in August 2019, and will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of explorer lovers! Creating a themed birthday party involving Dora and Swiper is easy as can be, by just incorporating shades of orange and purple, exploration props and don't forget a little español!
Sonic the Hedgehog
Sonic the Hedgehog is getting his very own movie, come November 2019 which means it's perfectly timed as a great birthday theme! Whip out the bright colors like blue, red and yellow like the party at Moms & Munchkins and get your hedgehog on!
––Karly Wood
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