ML Interest Tag: party-planning

The Hands-Down Best Bakeries in Chicago for Birthday Cakes

by Sara Yaniga

For a kid, there’s nothing more exciting than a birthday party. And having a great birthday cake—one that tastes good and looks cool—is an important part of their special day. No matter what your child’s superhero, video game or character obsession du jour may be, you will find a Chicago bakery to create a canvas for those candles. Here are our favorites. Make a wish!

Alliance Bakery

Break the cake mold and dream beyond the traditional sheet cake with one-dimension designs. Having served as Executive Pastry Chef at downtown hotels and winning or placing in several design competitions, Chef Peter Rios’ Alliance Bakery is ready to show you that if you can think it, he can bake it. Besides his 3-dimensional edible works of art, Chef shows off skills he picked up training in Paris with his European-inspired pastries and desserts.

1736 W. Division St., Wicker Park; Online: alliance-bakery.com

Bartleby’s Ice Cream Cakes

Some people prefer an ice cream cake to a traditional cake with frosting, but still want it to be as special and unique as the guest of honor. That is exactly where Bartleby’s comes to the rescue! Using the finest ingredients, the cakes are made fresh to order, including the ice cream, and can be customized in any combination of flavors your heart desires. You can also find vegan and gluten-free options, too.

Check site for rotation of pick-up locations around Chicago; Online: bartlebyscakes.com

Bennison's Bakery

Let’s face it: Some of us are a little more last-minute with party planning than others. If you find yourself cakeless the day of, you could either pull through the nearest Portillo’s drive-thru and enjoy the reaction when you order an entire chocolate cake with a side of cheese fries or you could find a bakery with amazing pre-made cakes. Bennison’s, a North Shore institution since 1938, is one of those gems that stocks delicious 7” and 9” chocolate and yellow cakes with either fudge or buttercream icing. Ask them to fancy it up with the birthday celebrant's name and you’re good to go.

1000 Davis St., Evanston; Online: bennisoncakes.com

Defloured

Gluten-impervious baker Johanna is only sensitive to wheat in the way she feels that every person should have the ability to enjoy worry-free heavenly desserts. She took on and conquered the challenge of making desserts that were indecipherable from their glutenized counterparts. For kids who might be gluten-sensitive or for anyone just looking for a delicious cake to celebrate their special day, call or send Johanna an email to place an order. Keep your eyes peeled while you’re out and about, you might find samples of these gluten-free goodies at your nearest Whole Foods or coffee shop in addition to their Andersonville storefront.

1477 W. Balmoral, Andersonville; Online: deflouredbakery.com

Elisa’s Cake by the #Pound

Paralegal by day and baker by night, owner Elisa baked her first birthday cake in 2014 for her daughter’s 4th birthday. After six years of keeping her love of baking a “hobby”, she relocated to Chicago and turned her hobby into a thriving business.  And, we are oh so glad she did! Reach out today and see for yourself just why Elisa’s Cake by the #Pound was named one of the “50 Best Black-Owned Bakeries in the US” by Travel Noire.

Online: elisascakebythepound.com

Eméche Cakery & Cafe

Eméché means “tipsy” in french, and owner Janell got her start making alcohol-infused cupcakes for her friends and neighbors while living in Brooklyn. Soon the orders became so frequent that Eméché was born and materialized as a brick & mortar store back in her hometown of Chicago. While the menu offers a full variety of pastries, drinks, cheesecakes and treats, the birthday cakes are amazing. The buttercream alone has amassed quite a fan club. As a bonus, online ordering makes ordering a cake a breeze. 

3453 S. Prairie Ave., Bronzeville; Online: emechecakeryandcafe.com

Roeser’s Bakery

It doesn’t get any more old school than Chicago’s oldest family-owned bakery, which has been servicing Humboldt Park sweet tooths since 1911. As a specialty, Roeser’s offers low-glycemic options for birthday boys and girls who could benefit from reduced sugar, carbs and calories. Follow the bakery’s iconic neon sign to find cakes baked using recipes perfected over 4 generations with culinary skills to decorate to any theme you could possibly imagine, including a wide variety of licensed character cakes. Pop into Roeser’s Party Palace next door to tick decorations off your birthday planning checklist.

3216 W. North Ave., Humboldt Park; Online: roeserscakes.com

Sweet Mandy B’s

When you hit up Sweet Mandy B’s you can’t fight the urge to slow the pace and plant yourself to savor whatever treasure you find in the glass encasement and soak up the old-school nostalgia. One taste of their icing will have you wishing you had a vat full and a giant spoon. Call the bakery or stop in to place your special cake order and enjoy the warmth the pastel colors and old-fashioned decor evokes.

1208 W. Webster Ave., Lincoln Park & 254 E. Ontario, Streeterville; Online: sweetmandybs.com

Sweet Ali’s

Inspired by her son’s, and subsequently her own, celiac diagnosis and lack of quality baked goods available in 2007, Ali Graeme set out to blaze gluten-free trails. After playing in her kitchen with different blends of flour and receiving encouragement from family, she opened Sweet Ali’s two years later with recipes perfected that all would enjoy, gluten-free or otherwise. Beyond the cakes, you’ll find pre-packed pasta, bread and baked goods to enjoy later.

13 W. 1st St., Hinsdale & 1107 Waukegan Rd., Glenview; Online: sweetalis.com

Sweet Natalie’s/Baby Doll Bakery

Sweet Natalie's is a bake shop that sells products from a select group of talented and local specialty bakers. They are a group of small businesses working together to bring customers a unique experience and a variety of baked goods. While Sweet Natalie’s is not a certified gluten-free facility, all bakers at Sweet Natalie's utilize dedicated, gluten-free facilities for production. For those looking for vegan options, they also provide many vegan baked goods as well. If you're not a planner, they have celebration cakes and cupcakes available. For something specific, contact them to create a custom celebration cake. (Note: Sweet Natalie’s will soon be Baby Doll Bakery.)

207 S. Hale St., Wheaton; Online: sweetnataliesbakery.com

West Town Bakery & Diner

Whether you’re seeking a traditional cake or need to spin the wheel of dietary restrictions — vegan, nut-free, sugar-free, soy-free and gluten-free — this organic bakery with a funky, retro vibe can knock your cake request out of the ballpark. They strive to use as many local, natural ingredients for everything from the flour down to the eggs and their products come in environmentally friendly packaging. West Town Bakery also makes some of the city’s best smash cakes for baby’s first birthday!

1916 W. Chicago Ave., West Town; Online: westtownbakery.com

Urban Icing

If your birthday star doesn’t mind sharing the spotlight with a 3D T-rex cake, or maybe a unicorn with an edible golden horn, then Urban Icing is the place for you. In addition to being a boutique bakery, Urban Icing is an event space that will take care of all the details of your child’s party.  You can choose from a Lego Party, Mermaid Party, Ice Cream Social and more. There's something fun—and delicious—for everyone.

1944 N. Damen Ave., Bucktown; Online: urbanicing.com

 

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7 Places to Host an Outdoor Birthday Party (That Aren’t Parks)

by Allison Sutcliffe

Don’t get us wrong, we love Seattle’s amazing parks and playgrounds as much as the next parent. They’re some of our favorite sunny days spots. Plus, when it comes to outdoor birthday parties, there’s no denying the ease of throwing one at a local park. But if you’re looking for creative places to host an outdoor birthday party that go beyond the everyday, we’ve got ideas. Help your summer birthday kiddo shine when you book a bash at a petting farm, aboard a spirited cruise or at a fun park. Read on for the party-pleasing details.

Head to a farm

A girl holds a goat on farm
iStock

Wide open spaces are the key to a successful outdoor birthday party for kids. And where better to find acres upon acres for kids to roam than at a local petting farm? There are more than a few local farms and animal sanctuaries where families can host a barnyard bash to remember this summer. First on our list is Farrel-McWhirter Farm Park in Redmond, where kids can explore 68 acres of trails, fields and creeks before visiting the animals. Parties can be booked on Saturdays from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. for up to 20 guests. They include either a wagon ride or pony rides, and prices start at $450 for residents. Just be sure to sign up as soon as you can for a party this summer; these popular spots go quickly.

Another farm-tastic spot to consider for your next outdoor birthday party is Tiny Hearts Homestead in Lake Tapps. Here, the birthday kiddo and friends can get as much animal time as they can handle, while you’ve got lots of picnic table space to set out treats and gifts. Parties can be booked for $150 an hour online. Fall City Fancy Farm offers a similar option, plus pony rides for your summer celebration.

Celebrate at the beach

Seattle Parks and Recreation

One of the upsides to an outdoor birthday party is that it’s naturally low-key. And it doesn’t get more laid back than packing a picnic, beach blankets and toys (hint: sand toys make great party favors) and heading to Golden Gardens or Alki to party. Kids can explore tidepools, build sandcastles and splash in the Sound. And you can pull out a package of chocolate bars, graham crackers and marshmallows and sing "Happy Birthday" around a bonfire. Just be sure to review the fire pit rules before you break out into song.

Plan a day at the fun park

Allison Sutcliffe

Flying pumpkins, antique cars, canoes and an enormous jump pillow are just a few of the perks of Remlinger Farm's Fun Park that’s one of the easiest places to host an outdoor birthday party. Packages are booked in two-hour increments, (for either 11 a.m.-1 p.m. or 2-4 p.m.) and include time in the covered party corral, smack dab in the middle of the fun park. Everything you need to enjoy the day is taken care of—a server sets up and takes down the party and helps with everything in between. The $500 price, for 15 guests (kids and parents), includes pizza, salad, beverages, cake, ice cream and party favors. Pony rides can be added for $7 a person, and extra guests (adults or kids) are just $25 each. Party in the room, and play all day at the Eastside’s version of Disneyland.

Set sail aboard the Queen Anne's Revenge

Emerald City Pirates

The high seas (a.k.a. Lake Union) is a great spot for families looking for a different take on an outdoor birthday party. Let the Emerald City Pirates entertain your little buccaneer plus party guests on this interactive sailing experience. To get the party started, kids will go to pirate school and test their newfound skills on the guests at Ivar’s as they sail by. Then it’s time to get down to business and raid the pirate’s treasure chest on board. But, wait. What’s this? The chest is empty. In a truly delightful turn of events, these newly minted pirates and adorable party-goers must sail the open seas in search of the treasure. All we’ll say about the experience is that the stakes are high, and a water cannon fight may be what it takes to wrest the treasure from the bad guy. Then it’s time for a rousing round of “Happy Birthday,” sung by your fellow pirates and a game or two.

When the day is done, party pirates can head to the shores of Lake Union Park for a cake and ice cream (whatever you’ve brought along to celebrate). And the birthday kiddo can check out the cool pirate pack swag that’s part of this experience; all the party guests receive an official pirate certificate too. You’ll need a minimum of 15 guests to get the discounted group rate on this sail, or book individually at the standard pricing.

Splash at a pool, spraypark or wading pool

Mounger pool in Seattle is a great space to host an outdoor birthday parties
Seattle Parks and Recreation

If you’ve got a toddler, planning an outdoor birthday party at a wading pool or splash pad in Seattle or on the Eastside is one of the best bets around (assuming the weather cooperates). Roll up early to grab your spot (and snag a nearby picnic table too), then set out blankets and watch the kids splash and play throughout the day.

If you’re looking to host a party with a little more structure, you can’t go wrong at one of Seattle’s most scenic spots—Coleman Pool at Lincoln Park. Parties can be scheduled on Friday, Saturday or Sunday nights from 7-9 p.m. Mounger Pool is the other fantastic outdoor party option. Although you won’t have the view, you will have access to the playland pool—a toddler’s dream. The pool can be rented Saturdays and Sundays from 5:45-7:15 p.m. and Monday through Thursday from 5:30-7 p.m.

Good to know: Seattle's splash pads opened over Memorial Day weekend, but Seattle's wading pools aren't open yet. The two outdoor pools are set to open the weekend of June 18 and 19, and will then move to a full-time schedule starting June 25. But you can book group pool rentals starting June 1 at noon.

Zip into an adventure park

via instagram

Outside is the name of the game at any one of Seattle’s adventure parks. When it comes to party planning, High Trek Adventures in Everett has options for everyone. Book a party package on the ropes and zipline courses where kids as young as four can test their skills on the cadets kids course. Anyone over the age of seven is allowed to tackle the super high challenges found on the captain’s course. Playing laser tag on the outdoor course is also an option for groups. Group parties are booked on a per person cost (between $30-$55) with a minimum number required to get that rate. Plus they offer lots of flexibility in the BYO realm. Bring your own food, drink and cake to enjoy at the reserved picnic table, or make it super easy and choose from their selection of frozen treats.

Hit a hole in one

a boy plays mini golf
iStock

There's lots to love about mini golf, especially on a sunny summer day. It's another low-key, low-stress birthday party idea that's guaranteed to please. While there are a few different courses that host birthday parties in the area, the ease of hosting your next "hit" birthday party at Interbay Golf Center may have you wondering why you hadn't done this before. When you call to reserve a party (call at least 2-3 weeks in advance), they'll set aside a picnic table for you and make sure the course is clear for your group to jump in and play. The day of, kids can play through the whimsical challenge of this 18-hole course before sitting down for a bite to eat (pizza, hot dogs or chicken strips are on the menu) with friends. Parents can bring in whatever birthday dessert strikes their fancy and little extras that aren't on the menu, like juice boxes, so kids can refuel. The price is just $15 per kiddo for this simply sweet celebration.  

RELATED STORIES:
16 Exciting Places to Host an Indoor Birthday Party
Sweet! Seattle’s Top Spots for Small Cakes
Let’s Party! Backyard Birthday Party Rentals for Every Kind of Kid
9 Party Supply Stores That Take the Cake
Your Guide to Seattle’s Best Playgrounds & Parks

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AAPI-Owned Businesses in Chicago for Families to Support

by Maria Chambers

The beauty of Chicago is not just a credit to our stunning architecture and striking lake and river views but to the diversity of the businesses and their owners. May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, making it a great excuse to support AAPI-owned businesses in Chicago to say thank you for their contributions. From a toy store to mouth-watering Asian fusion cuisine, read on and for ideas on how to support your neighbors, friends and fellow Chicagoans during the month of May and beyond.

For Great Sushi & Hibachi

Shinto

hibachi restaurants in chicago asian owned business in chicago
Shinto

Zero doubts, one of the most memorable dining experiences for kids is their first hibachi dinner. The food is always piping hot and delicious, the prep performance is engaging and watching your meal come together before your eyes gives you a sense of coziness and connection. The goal of Ron Huang, owner of Shinto, is to create meals that are not only delicious but are visibly representative of the care and focus on quality that goes into making them. If hibachi isn't your thing, you can also order entrees off the menu or choose from a wide range of sushi options. 

Shinto is a great option for making kids feel special on a birthday, so keep them in mind when you're in party planning mode. 

For Baked Goods

TOUS les JOURS

Even Richard Kim's TOUS les JOURS description will have you hooked: a Korean-inspired French bakery. Drool. TOURS les JOURS specializes in French-Asian-inspired baked goods with a focus on quality ingredients. Their menu includes 300+ bakery goods, including bread, pastries, cakes, desserts and beverages. They bake every day to ensure the freshest products. 

Jennivee’s Bakery

When Jenne Vailoces heard of bakeries refusing wedding cakes to gay and lesbian couples, she rolled up her sleeves and got to work launching Jennivee's Bakery in the Northhalsted neighborhood. As a transgender immigrant from the Philippines, it was important to her to create a business that truly supported and represented the LGBTQ+ community. In her bakery you'll find traditional American offerings and Filipino cakes and pastries. 

For Kids Who Like to Shred

Little Ripper Skateboarding

Looking for a way to keep kids active during the pandemic shutdowns, Logan Square dad Enrico Hufana started Little Rippers Skateboarding. Hufana and other experienced instructors give kids ages 3-14 an introduction to boarding so they have the confidence to safely navigate all skate parks. 

For Your Toy Shopping Needs

Building Blocks Toy Store

Saying Building Blocks is an old-fashioned toy store packed to the brim isn't an exaggeration. Its three locations fill every nook with play-rich, high-quality toys and books. You'll find everything from developmental playthings for babies to science kits that grandparents can't keep their hands off of. Building Blocks is known for its deep selection of Thomas, Brio and Chuggington trains, but you'll also discover lesser-known finds. Owner Katherine Nguyen is passionate about supporting small, local companies.

For Toe-Tapping Fun

Little Miss Ann

Tinybeans-reader favorite, Ann Torralba, is an award-winning touring Kids Musician, former Chicago Public School teacher, veteran instructor at the Old Town School of Folk Music, mom and a first-generation Filipina-American. Under the professional name Little Miss Ann, her music has been featured on Sirius XM Kids Place Live, WXRT Local Anasthetic and NAEYC. She has played everywhere from SXSW, Nashville’ Pilgrimage Festival, and even the Lollapalooza kids stage. Her performance schedule and links to her music can be found on her website.

For Balloon Displays & Party Planning

Bean and Boosh

Add some color and an Insta-worthy display to any celebration with a balloon installation from Bean and Boosh. Their creations range from 50 to 1000+ balloons and can be designed to match any budget, $125+.  

For a Sugar Rush

Aji Ichiban

Forgo the ordinary and take your kids on a tour of Asia via candy. At Aji Ichiban, you can take your pick from thousands of candies and sweet and salty snacks from Asia. The shrimp and squid flavored treats are especially interesting, while the wide range of sweet gummies are sure to be gobbled up in a flash. Customers are encouraged to sample before buying, making shopping for Halloween treats here especially sweet.

2117-A S. China Pl., Chinatown

For Stylin’

AKIRA

You may have shopped in person at AKIRA, but did you know they began as a trendy boutique in Wicker Park? Started in 2002 by Eric Hsueh, Erikka Wang, Sarah Hughes and Gordon Liao, AKIRA offers a full line of women's clothing, footwear and accessories from brands you know and even some of their own private label items. 

They're known for statement-making, trendy pieces, but they have a commitment to always remember their roots and represent Chicago in the fashion world.

For Fusion Cuisine

Seoul Taco

The tastes of Korea and Mexico beautifully meld together at David Choi's Seoul Taco. The menu is small, but big on taste and we highly recommended you try the kimchi fried rice. Seoul Taco has locations in Naperville, Hyde Park, River North and one coming soon in Wicker Park.

Kimski

When Ed and Mike Marszewski were kids, their mother Maria would cook combining their ethnic backgrounds of Polish and Korean. Eventually, the family went on to periodically offer their signature cuisine on the back patio of the family bar and at special events. The brothers own Maria’s Packaged Goods & Community Bar in Bridgeport and they tapped their friend Chef Won Kim to develop Kimski, a counter-service Korean Polish Street Food joint connected to Maria’s. Order food at Kimski’s Wed.-Sun. and enjoy while grabbing a drink at Maria’s.

Mom's

Mom's, brought to you by Kelly Ijichi and Randi Howry, serves Japanese-American comfort food. They experiment with classic dishes while honoring the tradition of Japanese cuisine. They move around a bit in the city experimenting with different concepts, so it's best to check their website to see where you can find them. Mom's is also available for catering. 

 

RELATED ARTICLES:

22 Books That Feature Asian American Heroes & Leads
21 Asian American Heroes Our Kids Need to Know About
This Book Is an Antidote to Anti-Asian Racism & It’s Available Now
Black-Owned Businesses to Support for Black History Month (& Beyond)
Chicago-Inspired Baby Names That Put the Wind in Our Sails

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The Best Potty-Training Books for You & Your Kid

by Angelica Kajiwara

When my twins hit the toddler phase, I found myself feeling bittersweet about potty training. Part of me wanted my babies to stay babies as long as possible. The other part needed diapers gone as fast as humanly possible.

So when faced with the question of “what’s next?” I asked every parent I could find about the best books to get our potty training journey started. The options ranged from child-led to planned and scheduled, and everything in-between. Here, I’ve broken down several of the most popular selections to choose from—as well as some bathroom-friendly books for your little learner.

Potty-Training Books for Parents

Stress-Free Potty Training

$12 BUY NOW

Start with your child's personality type and learning style, take the quiz and head straight to that section for some awesome targeted tips. Strong-willed child? Reluctant trainee? You'll discover helpful ideas to get them out of diapers. If you're finding it difficult to pick just one type, that's OK, too. You can reference multiple chapters for various techniques. The author emphasizes that you need to let your toddler set the pace for the process—it's not a quick-fix book. If you're ready for a slow but steady method, this is the one for you.

Oh Crap! Potty Training

$14 BUY NOW

The six-step method broken down into blocks is the perfect balance between time commitment and a simple process. The author takes you through a plan that many kids catch onto in a few days, but if staying home for four straight days isn't a realistic option, this may be a tough one. Just to note: You might find yourself hunkered down with a pen, highlighter and to-do lists as you read.

The No-Cry Potty Training Solution

$15 BUY NOW

Not one for strict guidelines? You're covered with the suggestions in this book. The readiness quiz will help you know when to get started, and the author openly refers back to her personal experiences with her kids' training process. It's recommended to give this a read in the very beginning phases of training, maybe even a little before. You can skip to the highlights with the "Quick Start" guide, a good kick-off list and a great reference when you need a refresher.

Potty Training in 3 Days

$6 BUY NOW

You'll need to put everything on hold for just a few days if you run with the advice in this book. As the author points out, you'll be spending every waking minute with your little one. Nevertheless, it's an excellent method for your kiddo to get all the basics down over a long weekend. And there's one small detail you definitely need to know: Your child will be going commando the whole time. Long t-shirts help cover the view.

Potty Train Your Child in Just One Day

$10 BUY NOW

Many skeptics before you learned that this method really works. You'll need some time to prep here—after all, the "Potty Party" won't plan itself—then prepare for a sprint that feels like quite a marathon. With this method, it's essential to let your child's development guide you; readiness is an essential first step. If you are a bit extra when it comes to your kids, you'll love the party planning element and the quality time with your tiny human.

Diaper-Free Before 3

$15 BUY NOW

You'll want to read this book if you're the parent who thinks about preschool right after giving birth. You don't want any surprises, and you're more than happy to prepare for potty training in the baby phase. Bonus: The author walks you through the process to get your little one out of diapers a lot sooner than you thought possible. The helpful history of potty training offers some insight into experiences dating back to the Victorian Era. (Spoiler alert! Parents started at birth back then, and this method isn't far off.)

Potty-Training Books for Children

Everyone Poops

$15 BUY NOW

Your little animal lover will want you to read this book over and over. Perfect for reluctant trainers, the "where poop goes" lessons help make the process fun and educational.

Once Upon a Potty

$8 BUY NOW

This cute book talks about and illustrates correct body parts and their functions, and shows and talks about pee and poop. Add the helpful tip that accidents are OK, and your kiddo will be happy to try out the potty.

A Potty for Zaza

$15 BUY NOW

If your little one has an adorable, new training potty to show off, then Zaza's the girl for you. Your kiddo can learn all about the little potty and who is just the right size for it.

Where's the Poop

$10 BUY NOW

Sometimes nailing where to go is a big 'ol problem, and this book has the seemingly magic answer. Vibrant illustrations and adorable animals make this one a favorite. This durable book even has interactive flaps for little fingers.

Daniel Goes to the Potty

$9 BUY NOW

If there's a Daniel Tiger fan in your house, they'll love the TV episode that coordinates with this sweet book. Daniel's potty song adds even more fun. Your little one can learn from their favorite striped friend.

Potty Professional

$8 BUY NOW

Your child will be ready to take the lead with this kid-initiated potty training tale. Bright pictures and short-and-sweet sentences will keep your little one on the edge of their (toilet) seat.

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See Ya Sugar! 10 Ways to Use Leftover Halloween Treats

by sommy rhee

After the mini ghosts and goblins have eaten their share of trick-or-treating treasures the real question remains: what will you do with the pile of candy left after the big night? Before you find your fingers sneaking stealth-like into their bucket, take a peek at the 11 ideas we’ve found to put all that sugar to good use. Your waistline and your kid’s teeth will thank you.

skittlepaint_jenkossovan_halloweencandy_halloween_national_redtricycle

photo: Jen Kossovan via Mama. Papa. Bubba.

1. Create art with candy. Skittles… taste the Rainbow. Or make a rainbow with Skittle paint. Bright colors, sweet smells and a lot of smiles come out of this clever candy project we spotted over at Mama. Papa. Bubba.

dissolvingcandy_daynaabraham_halloweencandy_halloween_national_redtricycle

photo: Dayna Abraham via Lemon Lime Adventures

2. Feed curiosity with candy. Unload a few of those pesky pumpkin candies that seem to make their way down to the bottom of the bucket by joining mama Dayna Abraham of Lemon Lime Adventures for a simple science experiment. It’s as easy as grabbing a few drinking glasses, paper and curious kiddos.

guessthecandyjar

photo: Sommy Rhee

3. Have a fun math lesson by teaching the kids the art of estimation. Guess how much candy is in the jar? It can be a fun ice-breaker at a birthday party, too. The winner gets to take home the whole jar.

switchwitch_gabbycullen_halloween_redtricycle

photo: Gabby Cullen

4. Give it to the Switch Witch. Encourage the kids to give up some of the candy by coaxing them into making an offering to the Switch Witch.

 

pinata_gabbycullen_national_redtricycle

photo: Gabby Cullen

5. Prep your party piñata. Yay for party planning! Halloween is the perfect time to stock up on the candy you’ll be looking for when the birthday season picks up. Stash a pile of the good stuff and save for down the road. Want to know how to make your own piñata? Grab the how-to here.

popcorntrailmix

photo: Sommy Rhee

6. Spice up family movie night. Add M&Ms, candy corn, Nerds, malted milk balls or other small sweets to your popcorn to come up with a unique trail mix.  

photo: Randalyn Hill via Unsplash

7. Save supplies for holiday gingerbread houses. Pick out the best decorative candy from the bunch and save it for the gingerbread house-making sessions that will probably be happening a few weeks from now. We love the idea of Dum Dums being used as entrance lanterns, nerds being used as the gravel walkway, and various chocolate bars being formed into furniture.

CandyBuyBack3

 

8. Let the kids sell it back. Taking extra loot to a national buyback program will not only relieve them of too much sugar, but kids will also feel good knowing their donation will allow U.S. troops overseas to get their fill of the Halloween spirit, too. Find a buyback program near you.

nestlecrunchbowls_halloweencandy_national_redtricycle

photo: courtesy meals.com

9. Use it up during your next dinner party. Gather up all the Crunch bars you can find and save them for your next dinner party. With just a little prep and a great recipe found over at Meals.com, you’ll be dishing up dessert with an added crispy shell. Want to know why leftover balloons will come in handy? Hop on over to Meals.com for the entire tutorial.

mmsbalance_trishastanley_halloweencandy_national_redtricycle

photo: Trisha Stanley via Inspiration Laboratories

10. Balance out sugar with science! For every M&M they eat, they can add one to the scale, while you talk about equal parts and balancing acts. Making your own version of this experiment is as easy as entering Inspiration Laboratories and getting the complete tutorial.

— Sommy Rhee & Gabby Cullen

 

 

RELATED STORIES

Everything You Need to Know about Halloween Candy Buy-Backs 

The Switch Witch: Your Secret Weapon to Ditching Extra Candy 

22 Things to Do with Pumpkins After Halloween

 

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How to Host a Stress-Free Summer BBQ

by Kenzie Kramer
Partner Content

Barbecue, BBQ, cookout, picnic—whatever you call your backyard shindigs, they’re an essential part of each summer. While these get-togethers are meant to be laid back, we all know that hosting can be anything but relaxing. Luckily, with a few smart tricks, you can spend more time hanging out with friends and less time stressing about hosting duties. Keep reading for a few of our favorites:

Alpenrose grocery delivery makes party planning easy with fresh, local food delivered to your home. Learn more and use the code RedTricycle at checkout to save $30 on your first order!

Get the Kids Involved

It's always helpful to have an extra hand! If your little one is able to, have them help out with some of your party prep. Shucking corn for grilled sweet corn and assembling kabobs are perfect activities for tiny hands. 

Have Local Groceries Delivered

Cross one trip off of your to-do list by getting your groceries delivered right to your door. Alpenrose weekly grocery delivers fresh, local milk, dairy products, staples and local specialty groceries across the greater Portland area. If you’re a last-minute planner, you can even change your order up until 2pm the day before your scheduled delivery!

Learn more and use the code RedTricycle at checkout to save $30 on your first order!

Keep Food Cool with DIY Ice Trays

Hot summer days are perfect for backyard parties—except when you're trying to keep food cold. Make your own ice trays by taking a few aluminum serving trays, filling them with an inch of water and freezing them. Set food on top of the frozen trays for mess-free chilled food!

Lay It All Out

Hosting can sometimes feel like a game of 21 questions from guests. Make entertaining easier on yourself by laying out commonly forgotten items on a central table (think bug spray, sunblock and sunglasses) and by putting large trash and recycling bins somewhere they can be easily spotted. 

Simplify Meal Time with Labels

A few notecards and a marker can make self-serve meals much easier. Label each dish with the name and any common dietary restrictions—if it’s vegetarian, contains nuts or is gluten-free, for example. Put out additional notecards and markers for guests to do the same with the food they bring!

Alpenrose grocery delivery makes party planning easy with fresh, local food delivered to your home. Learn more and use the code RedTricycle at checkout to save $30 on your first order!

 

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How to Plan a Kid’s Birthday Party on a Budget

By April Sutphen

Planning your child’s birthday party can be stressful – the theme, the decorations, the cake, the guest list.

You try to keep the budget in check but sometimes, expenses get away from you. If your husband is anything like mine, you’ll have him chirping in your ear each time you bring home another party supply bag or return a phone call from a vendor (i.e. clown, magician, caterer).

But with years of party-planning experience, I’m here to help with some fun and easy ways to help cut the budget on your child’s next birthday bash.

Ask Family for Help

Who better to ask for help planning your little one’s special day than family? When it comes to eliciting help from your mother, cousins, brothers and the like, you always have the guilt factor on your side! And after all, the party is for your child – can they really say no?

One of the biggest expenses when hosting a party is the food. A great way to get the family involved in the party planning process is to create a potluck-style menu.

Have everyone make their favorite dish or something they’re known for. Maybe your aunt Edna makes a killer mac and cheese or grandma’s meatballs are the hit of every holiday dinner. Ask which family members are willing to cook something. You can always suggest what you’d like them to make, but try not to be overly picky.

You can say something like, “Everyone adores your baked ziti!”. A little flattery goes very far.

When it comes to planning the snack food for your child’s birthday, try shopping at a wholesale food store. There you can buy snacks in bulk – pretzels, chips, and popcorn. Another tip is to purchase the types of snacks you and your children enjoy at home. Of course, you want to make your guests happy, but you can use the leftover goodies in your child’s lunchbox!

Remember that most children’s birthday parties are short and sweet. If you provide snacks in the beginning and cake at the end, you don’t need a whole lot of food in between. Calculate the number of guests you’re expecting and provide enough food for everyone to make one, generous plate. Parents rarely go back for seconds and the kids are often too busy playing to take too many bites.

You can even go as far as to ask a baker in the family to make your child’s birthday cake. With so many adorable ideas online and molds available for purchase, your child will never know their cake was homemade and not store bought.

Make the Invitations and Decorations

Who doesn’t love a good DIY project?

You can save a lot of money when you make your own invitations. This is a great way to get your child involved too. Let them color or write their friend’s names on the invites. It gives them a personal touch and saves you on printing costs.

Online and Facebook invites work too, but are a little more informal. It all depends on who you’re inviting and how you want to present the party.

Some decorations and party supplies you’ll need to buy – balloons, tablecloths, and party hats. But there are some awesome decorations you can make or embellish basic ones to make them really stand out!

Have your child help you color, draw and cut the letters that spell out “HAPPY BIRTHDAY”. You can use construction paper, glitter, markers, and stickers. Make each letter unique. Once they’re complete, string them together and you have a fun and original banner for the wall.

If you want to hang something from the ceiling, you can cut strips of construction paper in funky designs and colors. Ribbons can be curled and placed to hang freely from doorways.

Candy is a fan favorite at any child’s party (for the kids least!) You can make a candy tree or use candy necklaces as garlin – by simply cutting the elastic and then tying the pieces together, you have instant (and edible) accents. You can even make your own pinata and fill it with candy.

Get creative with your party decorations. Guests will love and appreciate the originality.

Plan Entertainment

This might be the most fun part of party planning.

If your child’s party is going to be at your home or a hall, you’ll need to provide some form of entertainment – kids running around in circles hyped up on birthday cake and candy (from your pinata or candy tree) is a recipe for disaster.

There are countless party games you can plan that will keep the kids entertained for hours.

Do you have a spoon at home? And some balls? How about a few pillowcases? Lots of household items can be used for relay races!

Kids can balance small balls on spoons, hop in pillow cases or potato sacks and even race with bouncy balls between their knees. These games are sure to provide entertainment, laughs and friendly competition.

Kids love temporary tattoos and most are relatively inexpensive. Stock up on some, call a young adult you know and create a “Tattoo Parlor” at your child’s party. With a little water and a sponge, the kids can pick their favorite designs and wear them for the celebration.

Bring a wireless speaker and your iPod for some musical entertainment! Not only can the kids dance to their favorite songs, but you can play games like freeze dance and musical chairs. Music is a great addition to any party!

Keep it Simple

My last piece of advice for planning your child’s birthday party is to keep it simple. There’s no need to spend hundreds of dollars to host a party at an elaborate location. If you have the time and space, DIY birthday parties are the best.

All you need is a little creativity and help to plan an inexpensive but memorable birthday bash!

I am a 32 year old mother of a son and wife to an officer. I am honest about both the love and struggle of parenting. I enjoy being active and writing is my passion, second only to my family.

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17 Activities That Double as Birthday Party Favors

by Oz Spies

Fun activities that double as party favors are two-in-ones that make for party planning perfection. They give the kids something to do at the big bash, plus, it’s also a take-home treat. Now, that’s a parenting hack we can get behind. From darling paper dolls to super slime, scroll down to see our favorites.

Homemade Lightsabers

Muddy Boots

Every Jedi-in-training needs a lightsaber. We love that these pool noodle lightsabers are lightweight and affordable. Keep the fun going with a challenge: can they use the Force (and their lightsabers) to keep a balloon from touching the ground? Fly over to Muddy Boots to find out how to make lightsabers.

DIY Bracelets

Buy Some Love

These DIY unicorn bracelets from Buy Some Love will make your kiddo's birthday party extra magical. Each kit is stocked with enough beads for ten bracelets plus silver unicorn charms and beading string. Plus, Buy Some Love lets you request beads in your unicorn superfan's favorite colors, or go with classic rainbow-colored beads.

Available at Etsy seller Buy Some Love, $25

Slime

I Heart Naptime

It's slime time! We love that I Heart Naptime's Fluffy Slime recipe takes just three ingredients, so it'll be easy for your party animals to make it in a few different colors. Pick up a pack of containers like these and pack them full of your party guests a personal batch of slime.

Individual Canvases

Jim Pennucci via flickr

For budding artists, nothing could be better than a painting party. Order up a bulk pack of canvases, cover your table with newspaper and paints, and wait for inspiration to strike. Then, each mini Michelangelo guest can bring home their own masterpiece.

Design-a-Truck

EndeavorToys

Beep Beep! We love this four pack of wooden trucks and wheels that lets little drivers build their own vehicles. After they're done assembling, extend the fun by setting out paints so kids can give their trucks custom paint jobs before they hit the road.

Available at Etsy seller EndeavorToys, $20 for four.

Paper Dolls

Merrilee/Mer Mag

Mer Mag's sweet, retro craft will have the guests at a dance-themed birthday party cheering bravo. With the help of a printable template, you can prep chains of paper dolls, and each kiddo can then decorate her own troupe of tiny dancers. Leap over to Mer Mag to download the paper doll template and find out how to set up this activity.

Name Letters to Paint

Susan Crabtree via Puerta Bella Design

And A is for awesome! We love the idea of giving each guest a letter to decorate. Since your VIPs will probably want to do their own name, you’ll have to be sure the RSVP list is set a few days before the big bash. See how Puerta Bella Design principal Susan Crabtree set up her kiddo’s party by clicking here.

Yarn Dolls

Jackie Currie via Happy Hooligans

This simple craft is so sweet. Let your party people design their very own stick dolls in any theme: mermaids, pirates, animals, and more! Craftmaster Jackie Currie suggests using a low-heat glue gun (so the kiddos can handle it) and explains the rest of the how-to over at Happy Hooligans.

A Bottle of Pixie Dust

Melissa Heckscher

Set up a pixie dust making station and let your little guests mix up their own bottles to take home after the magical affair. Click here to find out what you’ll need.

Sweet Salt Dough

Agnes Hsu via Hello Wonderful

With a little advance prep, you can easily make a batch of salt dough in all sorts of shapes: dinosaur fossils, leaf prints, stars and more. Bring out the batch during the party and let kids paint to their heart's content. We are especially head over heels for the bright and cheerful salt dough leaves from Hello Wonderful.

Take-Home LEGO Creation

Pioneer Library System via flickr

We all know kids can easily spend an afternoon building with LEGO. This time, let them take home their creation after the party is over. You can choose to buy a small set for each guest or—if your kids are cool with it—select bricks from your own overflowing stash.

Crowns to Go

Celebrated Party

Fairies-in-training will love making these DIY Flower Crowns, and you'll love that everything you need for this party activity comes in one kit. If your birthday kid's crown style leans more towards kings and queens than flower halos, then order a pack of cardboard crowns. Set them out with stick-on jewels and markers, and you'll soon have a house full of tiny royals.

available at Etsy seller Celebrated Parties, $15 for three.

Tiny Treasures

Catch My Party

Whether you’re entertaining pirates, mermaids or even Indiana Jones-style adventurers, your party guests will totally dig designing their own treasure chest. Your local craft supply store—like these from Michael’s—should have plenty on hand. Add paint, jewels, stickers, and that’s it!

Mini Microphones

Jen Kitzmiller via Pretty Mini

For a quick and easy solution that doesn’t require any prep, consider these adorable DIY microphones from Pretty Mini. There are 14 different colors to choose from and the mics arrive with everything your superstars need to shine. Click here to order a set or two.

Personalized Pots

Susy Moris via flickr

A personalized flower pot is a gift that keeps on giving. Giving your guests some seeds or a small flower to plant is a nice touch, but it’s the paint that’ll keep them occupied during party time.

Make Mug Art

Kersey Campbell via Handmade Charlotte

The classic holiday gift just got a party makeover. This is an easy and fun project for kids of all ages (supervision of super-littles is recommended) and takes just 30 minutes in the oven to set the ink. Hop over to Handmade Charlotte to see the entire tutorial.

Aprons to Decorate

Amazon

Perfect for a Sugar Rush-worthy bake-off or just a chance to show off cupcake decorating skills, outfit your party guests with their own aprons. Pick up a bundle of aprons in bright colors or simple white, and pass out fabric markers or puffy paints so that your guests can add a little flair. It's a perfectly delicious activity for your chefs.

Available at amazon.com, $2.88.

— Oz Spies

Featured image: Lidya Nada via Unsplash

 

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The Ultimate LA Kids Birthday Party Guide

by Shannan Rouss

Oh the pressure of planning a kid’s birthday party in LA. Should you book The BeatBuds or Lovebug? Have it at an indoor play space or outdoor playground… or maybe at home? Or, gulp, should you just forego the party altogether and give your kid an awesome experience instead? To help you through all the party-planning decisions, we’ve got the birthday guide for Angeleno parents.

All the Indoor Play Spaces

Looking for a venue where tots can climb, swing and celebrate—all in a safe, enclosed area, where you're sure to snap some Insta-worthy pics? Discover the newest (and cleanest!) indoor play spaces for your kiddo's next birthday bash, plus see the full list of all of our tried-and-true favorite play spaces. 

Art Studios with Party Packages

Creative, craft-loving kiddos can invite their pals to a paint, play and party at one of LA's best art studios for kids.

Museums Made for Celebrating

Some of LA's best kids museums (like Cayton Children's Museum, Discovery Cube LA and Kidspace Children's Museum) offer party options (with prices starting at $225!) for an extra special fete. 

 

Party-Worthy Parks & Playground

One of the perks of living in LA? You can host a party outdoors pretty much year-round. These 11 party-worthy parks and playgrounds deliver the goods with plenty of shade, picnic tables and awesome playground equipment. 

Best 1st Birthday Ideas

Turning one whole year is a pretty big deal. If you're looking for a party that's relatively low-maintenance but still memorable, we've got you covered. From a sensory-filled experience at our favorite learning-meets-play center to the ultimate story-time celebration in your own backyard, here are 9 awesome first birthday party ideas.

Awesome Birthday Experiences (No Party Required)

Ready to forego the big bash and gift your kid an unforgettable experience instead? From dining with their favorite dolls to the VIP treatment at Universal Studios, here are 10 ways to celebrate (no party required), along with all the best perks and freebies that come with being the birthday boy or girl.

The Most Original Venues

Want to take things up a notch for your kiddo’s next celebration? From a red-carpet-worthy party to a hoedown at one of our favorite farms, we've got the for LA's coolest, most original kids party venues.

Party Entertainment That Take the Cake!

Bounce houses are great and little people love pinatas. But how about doing something a bit different for your tot’s next (or first) birthday bash? From a kid-friendly rock concert to a ride on a fire truck, here are 14 kids party activities and entertainment you can only find in LA.

Miniature Golfing, Anyone?

There's something retro and cool about a mini golf party—and kids are sure to love the windmills, castles and more. So go ahead and score a hole in one with a celebration at one of LA's mini golf destinations.

–Shannan Rouss

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DC’s Best Indoor Birthday Party Venues

by Meghan Yudes Meyers
Winter birthdays are (almost) always an indoor celebration— but even if you have the space to host, who wants to deal with the post-party clean up? Not us! Thankfully there are plenty of fun, action-packed places to throw a shindig in the DMV. Read on for the best places to throw a winter birthday party.

 

A Daredevil Afternoon
If you have an extreme sport enthusiast in the house, then plan a thrilling shindig with  iFly in Loudoun county. Packages start with a thirty minute session which accommodates 12 guests. Included in the price is pre-flight training, flying gear (i.e. flight suits, helmets and goggles) and a video clip of each flight to share on social media. Party goers will each receive a flight certificate.

20315 Commonwealth Center Dr
Ashburn, VA
571-446-4359
Online: iflyworld.com

photo: AMC Mountainside via Yelp

A Silver Screen Party
Many of the region’s movie theaters offer enticing birthday packages that elevate movie viewing to an all afternoon event. But why not keep things simple? Stick to the movie (and popcorn) for a hassle-free (and budget-friendly) party. Head to Reston’s Bow Tie Cinema where tickets are $6 every Tuesday or check out the Two-Buck-Tuesday deal at University Mall Theatres in Fairfax, VA. 

11940 Market St.
Reston, VA
703-464-0816
Online: bowtiecinemas.com

10659 Braddock Rd.
Fairfax, VA
703-273-7111
Online: universitymalltheatres.com

Mission Possible
Let your pint-sized spy celebrate their birthday with a an all-out sleuthing adventure. Kids 4 & up will explore the Laser Maze Obstacle Course before they set out on a code-cracking adventure through the museum. Kids under 4 will play a challenging game of I Spy. This party package includes a two-hour rental of a private room to enjoy food (pizza and beverages are included for children), cake and more. Also included is admission for 10 children and 10 adults. Birthday packages start at $400.

35 Market Pl.
Baltimore, MD
Phone: 410-727-8120
Online: portdiscovery.org

Arts on the Horizon
For children ages 1 to 6, try a theatrically themed party with Arts on the Horizon in Alexandria, catering especially to this age group. Book a Birthday Workshop where you choose the subject matter and your child and their guests create the adventure. Parties are led by qualified teaching artists and can be arranged at a venue of your choice, with customizable options. Packages start at $200.

1819 N. Quaker Ln.
Alexandria, VA
571-549-1270
Online: artsonthehorizon.org

Everything (But the Kitchen Sink)
If you can’t decide on a party theme – climbing wall? laser tag? rope course? arcade? — choose “all of the above” at Adventure Park USA in Maryland. Geared more toward the younger crowd (think 10 and under), this amusement park boasts both indoor and outdoor activities. In the winter, the roller coasters and other outdoor attractions are not operating. But there is plenty to do inside the Wild West themed building;  in addition to all of the “themes” mentioned above, you also find bumper cars! Birthday parties start at $159.62 for eight guests and includes  the use of the party room for one hour, pizza for all guests and access to indoor games and the arcade. Lucky guests may also get to meet Dustin the Cowboy and Tumble the Prairie Dog, Adventure Park’s resident mascots.

11113 West Baldwin Rd.
Monrovia, MD
301-865-6800
Online: adventureparkusa.com

Where the Wild Things Are
Petting Zoos used to be a party experience reserved for warmer weather. Until now! The Leesburg Animal Park recently added an indoor petting zoo to their grounds. Children can mix and mingle with exotic animals like camels and emus in the comfort (and warmth) of a fully heated indoor barn. Kids will also enjoy the indoor play space that includes seven distinct learning zones: a baby The Animal Park’s Safari package is available year-round and includes the use of a private party room for two hours, a pony ride for each child, a souvenir cup filled with animal feed and more. Party packages start at $359 for 10 kids (and 10 adults). For an additional $40, you can add a bounce house to your party room.

19270 James Monroe Highway
Leesburg VA
703-433-0002
Online: leesburganimalpark.com

photo: Magic Ground

Monkey See, Monkey Do
If you have a monkey for a munchkin, a jungle-themed party is in order. Tots who like to oo-oo-ee-ee their way around the great outdoors will enjoy an active, animal-filled birthday celebration at MagicGround. The DC-based indoor playground features a rock climbing wall, jumbo slides, a ball pit. a treehouse, a swinging bridge and more. The resident face painter can transform your party guests into jungle creatures like leopards, zebras and parrots. There is also a game room, a craft space and a toddler play area. Weekday packages start at $200 for 90 minutes of play for 10 guests.

3100 14th St. NW
Columbia Heights
202-370-6656
Online: magicground.com

Sound the Alarm!
Warm up a cold winter weekend with a party at the Friendship Firehouse Museum.Little firefighters will be mesmerized by hoses, ladders and shiny trucks of yesteryear. Party packages, which cost $250, include 90 minutes of hands-on, guided activities including firehouse-themed games and crafts. Each guest also receives a firefighter hat. After exploring the antique firehouse apparatus, head over to one of the two neighboring firehouses that will give your guests a tour of a modern facility (advanced reservations required).

107 South Alfred St.
Alexandria, VA
703-746-3891
Online: alexandriava.gov

Ice, Ice Party
If your little one wants the beauty of a snowscape without the actual chill, head to Falls Church-based BusyBees. This indoor playground would make a polar bear feel at home; sleek, Arctic-white vinyl with touches of icy blue, mint green (with pops of pink) make this indoor play place picture-perfect for a Polar Bear party. Your guests can slide down frozen-looking slides that light up (like Northern Lights!) or waddle like a penguin through ball pits.  This polar-perfect party space also offers pre-planned party packages; prices start at $35 per child (there is a 12 kid minimum). BusyBees also has a location in Fairfax Corner.

6110 Arlington Blvd.
Falls Church, VA
703-584-5142
Online: busybeesplay.com

photo: Maria V. via Yelp

Let the Sun Shine
Unicorns are mythological and, let’s face it, so are warm, sunny days in the (often) dismal months of January and February. But celebrating your pint-sized Sunshine requires something light and bright, like winged horses and colorful rainbows! If your little dreams of a party dipped in glitter and topped with sprinkles, check out Host and Toast  a Reston-based party planning company that brings the level of detail and design usually reserved for weddings to children’s parties. If you want to tackle all things mythical and magical on your own, start with a bare-bones party room, like the one at Nook.  These rooms are a monochromatic white, offering a blank canvas to create your fanciful vision.

5649 Lee Hwy.
Arlington, VA
703-270-6388
Online: playatnook.com

Up, Up and Away
Let your child’s party soar with a birthday celebration at Dulles International Airport. Geared for children age 5 and up, IAD offers packages that let kids explore the many aspects of air travel, from scanning luggage to meeting working K-9s. Party packages include party space, free parking and group activities (prices start at $300). You can customize your party with options like touring the airfield ($75) or doing a plane-related craft. Decoration options are limited inside the airport (you wont’ be able to float balloons), but all the activity you’ll see in the skies is sure to make up for it!

1 Saarinen Circle
Dulles, VA
703-572-8296
Online: flydulles.com/iad/birthday-parties

photo: Fairfax Station Railroad Museum

Birthday Crossing
Whether your little one likes Thomas the Train or The Little Engine that Could, The Fairfax Station Railroad Museum is the ideal place to host a choo choo party. Little ones will enjoy exploring the railroad-themed rooms and the miniature train tables, and don’t forget the picture-perfect backdrop for your party pictures: the little red caboose! Audio visual equipment is available to screen your little one’s favorite steam engine. Party packages start at $200.

11200 Fairfax Station
Fairfax Station, VA
703-425-9225
Online: fairfax-station.org

Toddlin’ Off to Party
You’ll find Elemeno between the letters K and P (get it?!); it’s the perfect place for tots still learning their ABC’s. This DC-based play space and birthday venue caters to the under 6 set. Prices start for parties start at $476 (for members; non-members are an additional $119). Prices are steeper here than at other venues, but that fee reserves the entire space for your guests and family. The space can accommodate 60 people, so Elemeno suggests inviting 20 kids (since each comes with one to two adults). Parties are held early morning or late afternoon and last for an hour and a half.

709 8th St. SE
Capitol Hill
202-763-7629
Online: elemeno.com

—Megan Yudes Meyers and Carolyn Ross

featured photo: iStock

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