New Trends on the Block: Winter 2023 kids’ birthdays

Image credit: @lunazulmiami

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We’re back with another installment of our New Trends on the Block series! While colder weather definitely changes the party landscape (see ya in a few months, pool parties), winter babies still deserve fun-filled celebrations. That’s why we’re here with our round-up of the latest kids’ birthday party trends. Get ready to get inspired because our list covers everything from party activities to dessert ideas (spoiler: cakes in a jar are super cute!). 

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Based on the rising popularity we’re seeing in specific kids’ birthday invitation themes as well as insight from party planners, we’ve put together a list of what’s trending in the world of kids’ birthdays. And as usual, vendors in major US cities have been included so you can start planning ASAP!

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Indoor party activities

Over the past few months, we’ve seen a huge uptick in indoor kids’ birthday parties. Rock climbing parties are a rising star on the kids’ birthday circuit while classic activities like bowling and roller skating are having a major resurgence lately. 

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Give your kiddo and their friends the opportunity to try something new, challenge themselves and share an awesome experience together. 

LA:

• Climbing: Rockreation
• Roller skating: Moonlight Rollerway
• Bowling: Pinz 

NYC:

• Climbing: The Cliffs at Gowanus
• Roller skating: Dreamland Roller Rink
• Bowling: Bowlero Times Square

Houston:

• Climbing: Momentum Indoor Climbing
• Roller skating: Bear Creek Roller Rink
• Bowling: Main Event Webster

DC:

• Climbing: ClimbZone
• Roller skating: Skate Zone
• Bowling: Pin Stripes

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Beyond the cake

Don’t get us wrong: we love a classic birthday cake (especially one with vanilla frosting and rainbow sprinkles!). That said, bakers, confectioners and sugar aficionados across the country have been raising the game lately when it comes to birthday treats.

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For your child’s next birthday, try swapping out the sheet cake for a fun, creative alternative like a cotton candy cart or cake in a jar.

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• LA: Bon Puf (handspun cotton candy), SuperCool Creamery (theatrical ice cream counter), Churro Service (freshly made churro cart)
• NYC: Fluff and Fluff (artisanal cotton candy), The Candie Cart (sweets & desserts cart)
• Houston: Funfood Station Catering (carnival snack cart)
• DC: Kicpops (ice cream and popsicle cart)
• Nationwide: Jars by Dani (creative, individual cake jars) 

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Personalized swag

One of the biggest party trends we’re seeing is personalized everything! Design a branded logo for your child’s party and feature it on sweatshirts, hats, candy and even bigger party favors like sneakers. Creating a party logo gives your guests a way to remember your kid’s big day while also elevating the party’s look and atmosphere. A piece of personally branded swag is definitely one of the more unforgettable party favor options—especially for milestone celebrations like bar or bat mitzvahs and sweet sixteens.

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• Long Beach, CA: Wild Child Party Supplies (creative supplies for unique party favors) 
• LA: CAKE (custom cakes, cookies and personalized treats), Michelle Rogers Styling (personalized event styling, including adorable custom favors)
• DC: All About Balloons (personalized balloon arches and signage)
• Miami: Lunazul Miami (unique party planning with personalized signage and decor)
• Oregon: Kids Funland LLC (custom birthday decor, gifts and outfits)

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Ready to get the party started? Choose from our wide selection of kids’ birthday invitations.