New Trends on the Block: Summer 2023 kids’ birthdays

It’s finally summer and you know what that means: longer days, warmer weather and more time to party! We’ve been keeping an eye out for the latest kids’ bday trends for all the summer babies out there, so if you’re planning on celebrating your kiddo between the months of June and September, you don’t want to miss this. From the hottest themes to the coolest activities, keep reading for the ultimate summer trend report.

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Groovy, baby!

Between Harry Styles’ characteristic bell-bottoms, the return of the curtain bang, and the enormous popularity of mushrooms and fungi right now, one thing is for sure: groovy, hippie-inspired aesthetics are super in. Our spring trend report already highlighted the prevalence of disco decor (which won’t be going anywhere anytime soon), but even more ’70s references are popping up on the bday scene lately.  

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Here’s what we’re seeing: plenty of colorful patterns, flowers galore, peace signs and smiley faces, and general ’70s-esque good vibes.

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These daisy balloons are an adorable and easy way to create a totally groovy atmosphere.. We’re also loving this personalizable groovy sign set—not only can you personalize with your kiddo’s name, but you also get to choose a pattern for the VW bus!

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Try handing out groovy stickers and temporary tattoos during the party and order personalized flower-shaped sunglasses as party favors that’ll totally wow your guests.

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For activities, we recommend flower crowns and friendship bracelets. This bracelet-making kit comes with everything you’ll need, including plenty of colorful and groovy beads. Plus, don’t forget to capture all the mems while staying on-theme with a Polaroid station! We love the classic look of this one.

Game on—in a truck!

In the age of Fortnite and Minecraft, nothing gets kids excited like a chance to play their favorite games! Video game trucks are taking the kids’ birthday party circuit by storm, offering kids the opportunity to game with their friends in a decked out and teched out truck. Think party bus, but for gaming. Most trucks even offer parents the option to request certain games and usually come with multiple screens and consoles so all bday party attendees can get in some game time.

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Here are some of the top-rated vendors in cities across the country:

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LA

The Ultimate Video Game Bus

1. Website: https://www.theultimatevideogamebus.com/
2. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ultimatevideogamebus/
3. Phone: (888) 272-4869 

Xtreme Mobile Gamez

1. Website: https://xtrememobilegamez.com/
2. Phone: (424) 261-4386

Game Thrilla Mobile Entertainment

1. Website: https://www.gamethrilla.com/
2. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/game_thrilla/
3. Phone:  (855) 984-7455

NYC

Fresh Life Ent. LLC

1. Website: https://www.freshlifeent.com/
2. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freshlife_entertainment/
3. Phone: (718) 717-8247

Rolling Video Games Long Island

1. Website: https://rollingvideogameslongisland.com/
2. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rollingvideogamesli/
3. Phone: (516) 596-6226

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Atlanta

Legendary Strikes Mobile Bowling

1. Website: https://www.legendarystrikes.com/
2. Phone: (678) 899-9096 or (877) 383-0218

GameTruck Atlanta

1. Website: http://www.gametruckparty.com
2. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gametruck_official/
3. Phone: (770) 755-5100

Mobile Gaming Lounge

1. Website: https://mobilegaminglounge.com/
2. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mobilegaminglounge/
3. Phone: (404) 910-3462

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Chicago

Windy City Game Theater

1. Website: https://windycitygametheater.com/
2. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WindyCityGameTheater
3. Phone: (708) 427-1255

Primetime Game Truck

1. Website: https://www.primetimegamingnj.com/
2. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ptgametrucknj
3. Phone: (973) 954-0040

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Dallas

GOAT Gaming Truck

1. Website: https://goatgamingtruck.com/
2. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goatgamingmobilearcade/
3. Phone: (469) 616-6905

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Surf’s up!

Cowabunga! The weather’s heating up, so it’s no surprise that we’re seeing an uptick surf-themed birthday parties. 

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The best part? You can take this theme in so many directions! 

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For a classic feel, stick to various shades of blue with plenty of surfboard, palm tree and beach decor. Depending on your kiddo’s age, setting up a sand box or kiddie pool are great ways to keep the little ones entertained and bring the beach to your backyard!

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Or, channel those Y2K Billabong vibes with pinks, blues and browns! Go heavy on the hibiscus imagery and consider offering activities like puka shell necklace-making. Just buy a bulk pack of shells like this one from Amazon and let your guests get crafty!

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With the Barbie movie coming out this July, we’ve definitely been seeing more Malibu Barbie-inspired parties! The hot pink, beachy vibes are truly everything—plus, this theme comes with endless accessory, decor and party favor options. These sun visors are so fun to hand out to guests and we’re loving these customizable Barbie-inspired beach bags for party favors. For even more Barbie-inspired decor, check out our Amazon shop here!

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