How do you plan a Birthday Party that will really make an impression? How do you make it a special event that will stay in people's memories for all the right reasons? Alive Network helps to make planning a great birthday party easy.
The tradition of holding a party to celebrate the anniversary of birth began centuries ago in Europe when it was feared that evil spirits sought out people on their birthdays. To protect them from harm, friends and family would gather around to bring good thoughts and wishes. Giving gifts brought even more good cheer to ward off evil spirits, and candles were placed on cakes to transport the birthday wishes directly to God.
Initially, only royalty was deemed important enough to have a birthday celebration, but the tradition soon spread with the introduction of the children's party in Germany, the Kinderfeste.
For the trivia buffs amongst you; the lyrically astounding ‘Happy Birthday to You’ song was written in 1839 by sisters Mildred and Patty Smith Hill!!
Children's birthday party ideas
Try the following themes as a starting point when organising kids birthday parties.
Alice in Wonderland
Kite Flying Party
Arabian Princess Party
Ladybug Party
Arts and Crafts Party
Lion King Party
Ballet Party
Mermaid Party
Barbie Party
Mickey Mouse & Minnie Party
Beach Party
Movie Theater Party
Beauty and the Beast
Nursery Rhyme Party
Buzz Lightyear
Peter Pan Party
Butterfly Party
Pirates of the Caribbean Party
Camping Party
Robin Hood Party
Cartoon Characters
Rock Star Party
Cheerleading Party
Roller Skating Party
Cinderella Party
Safari Party
Circus Party
Sleep Over Party
Clown Party
Snow White Party
Dinosaur Party
SpongeBob SquarePants Party
Fairy Party
Star Wars Party
Football Party
Superheros Party
Hannah Montana Party
Tea Party
Harry Potter Party
Teddy Bear Party
Hollywood Star Party
Under the Sea Party
Ice Skating Party
Wizard of Oz Party
Jungle Party
Winnie the Pooh Party
Karaoke Party
Recent reviews for Birthday Party Entertainment
Moondance Ceilidh Irish and Traditional
Based in Bedfordshire
This top class ceilidh / barn dance band has an amazing funk / rock sound and a unique approach to getting the audience involved. The musicians are some of the best in the country and line-up is very flexible to suit your budget and / or venue.
Recent review:
04/10/2010
"Thank you for arranging MoonDance to play at our wedding a couple of weeks ago. We and our guests had a fantastic time attempting to ceilidh! It was really good fun.
The caller was excellent and definitely required to keep us all in line, and the band were brilliant! It was a great end to a grea ... "
Munch Rock and Pop
Based in Merseyside
One of our most frequently recommended bands! A lively, hugely entertaining 4 piece rock & pop band covering hits from The Beatles & Kinks through to Killers & Kings of Leon! MUNCH can turn themselves on and tune in to any event that wants to party!
Recent review:
08/09/2010
"Hi Rich and Munch,
Now we are starting to get our feet back on the ground a quick email to follow up after the wedding and say how chuffed we were with the band and their performance. They were punctual, flexible and friendly and most importantly fantastic musicians. As we hoped they really hel ... "
Hipster Rock and Pop
Based in Shropshire
Young, energetic, super-professional and one of the most exciting and
experienced party bands to work exclusively with Alive Network!
Hipster are an all male 4-piece band, and cover a huge range of music
from The Beatles to The Kings of Leon!
Recent review:
02/09/2010
"Hipster were fantastic on the night. Every single person we have spoken to since that day has commented on how good they were. It really made our wedding.
They played a great range of music and the dancefloor was never empty. The whole band were approachable and down to earth. One of our friends ... "
Mike Rivers Solo Duo and Trios
Based in London
Mike Rivers is one the most promising soul voices in the UK & has entertained an array of clients in the function/ corporate circuit setting a mood from smooth background music to upbeat sing alongs in one tidy package! Christmas Songs available!
Recent review:
02/09/2010
"From start to finish our experience with using Alive Network has been flawless. Clare was great with organisig all the details.
As for Mike on the day he was awesome and brought life to our ceremony, reception drink and wedding breakfast.
His music complimented the relaxed mood of the day, ... "
Paul Dennis Solo Duo and Trios
Based in Manchester
Professional and totally live, Paul Dennis is an acoustic guitarist and singer with a wide range of material from 50’s rock ‘n’ roll to modern day pop - Hendrix to Green Day - Paul’s solo performances are dynamic and flawlessly delivered.
Bella Musica String Quartets
Based in Staffordshire
Bella Musica String Quartet is a professional ensemble based in North Staffordshire & South Cheshire in the UK, providing first class entertainment for any occasion - weddings, parties, corporate events, etc.
Recent review:
02/09/2010
"From start to finish Alive Network were helpful and informative, providing us with all the information we needed. Our coordinator was very friendly and approachable answering our every query and very quick in getting back to us.
Bella Musica were fantastic, they really set the mood of our afterno ... "
Regent String Quartet String Quartets
Based in London
The Regent String Quartet is a young professional quartet with extensive experience in performing at wedding services and receptions, corporate functions, fund raising events and other special occasions. Based in London.
Recent review:
02/09/2010
"The Regent String Quartet were professional before, during and after their performance. They called to ask for requests and tried their best to comply with these.
They were on time and played before we had even arrived. They played a variety of music then packed away without a fuss and had added ... "
Performance Rock and Pop
Based in Nottingham
Performance: cool, talented and professional. Five or four piece rock/pop band featuring the guitarist from Spiritualised, playing high energy covers of hits from from the 60s to the present day. Mod-pop, Britpop, contemporary Indie/Rock & some soul.
Recent review:
02/09/2010
"Hi Roy,
Thank you and the band so much for the gig on Bank Holiday sunday - it was great for us to have our customers (and staff!) up and rockin'!!
'Performance' were brilliant! Bring on the next time!! We've had so many phone calls regarding when your coming back, the cover of the KINGS OF ... "
The Dollars Rock and Pop
Based in Nottinghamshire
The Dollars are by far one of the most exciting party bands currently performing at events all over the UK… Young, talented and unique in every way, they are everything you need to make your night!
SPECIAL OFFERS AVAILABLE!
Recent review:
01/09/2010
"You and the lads were absolutely superb! I've been to many weddings and parties where there has been live music and I would say that you are as good as I have seen.
A good band makes the evening reception and you certainly made ours. I will definately recommend you to friends and family and hop ... "
Just Dance Rock and Pop
Based in London
Just Dance are 4 exceptional musicians who perform a wide repertoire of cool (never cheesy!) Pop, Rock, Funk, Soul and Disco music from the 70’s to present day.
Recent review:
01/09/2010
"I knew as soon as I saw the You-tube clip that Just Dance would be perfect for my birthday party.
Gemma from AN was helpful, thorough, efficient and friendly. She addressed any issues swiftly and was more than helpful facilitating the booking.
Just Dance were AMAZING!!! They made the part ... "
Birthday party fancy dress themes work really well, such as James Bond, Hawaiian, Phantom of the Opera, The Godfather, Alice in Wonderland, Hollywood Oscars Night or Wild West Theme.
It's good to ensure there are plenty of attractions to keep guests talking & mingling so you could also consider casino tables which can tie in nicely with a James Bond theme, for example, and create a space for guests to meet, mix and break the ice. Also check out our mix and mingle acts who will work the floor & get people talking.
For a rocking party, you could book a band to play songs fitting to that theme or just a general rock and pop, rat pack / swing, soul or jive band to keep your guests dancing all evening long.
“Ceilidhs” are great for those who want a different kind of music or for those with Celtic roots – hire a band with a caller to shout out the dance moves and you’re away!
Hiring a look alike of your birthday girl/ boy’s favourite celebrity would be a great touch. For a great surprise you could hire some singing waiters who can act “incognito” for part of the evening before bursting into song when your guests least expect it!
A night to remember
If you’re asking guests to wear fancy dress then your room should be decorated in a similar theme. The Essential Party Planning Supplies box below contains useful links to many high quality suppliers. From balloon displays to historical memorabilia, unusual cocktail ideas to table decorations or fireworks, Alive Network can put you in touch with everything you need.
One of the simplest and easiest types of party to organise is a venue or marquee with a live band. Nothing gets guests excited like a live music performance as it's far more interesting & engaging than a DJ or background music. You'll need to chose a band to suit to the occasion, your guests and the type of atmosphere you're looking for.
Any private hire venue with a cool bar and space to dance would be suitable, but bear in mind parking and accommodation for those guests traveling beyond a taxi ride. For something a bit different try the Hard Days Night Hotel in Liverpool, complete with a live Beatles Tribute band like The Blue Meanies.
Parties based around a live band, especially a lively band, are likely to be quite loud so consider how many elderly guests you might have. Venues with sound limiters can be a real pain so before you hand over any money, make sure the venue you choose doesn't have a limiter fitted (or if it does, that the threshold is set higher than 95dB). Also, make sure there is a dance floor and if at all possible, try to avoid venues where the bar is in a different room to the dancing as this can split guests and leave you with a less party atmosphere.
Good quality function bands will provide all of the
equipment you'll need, so all you need to do is ensure they have enough space and some light refreshments. Expect to pay upwards of £1000/£1400 for a really good 4-5 piece band. To save money check the listings here on AliveNetwork.com and choose a band located close to your event. You can also ask the band to DJ in between sets rather than hiring a separate disco.
For most private parties a really early arrival is not necessary so if you ask the band to arrive around 6pm they should be set up, sound checked & ready for guests to arrive by 7.30pm - 8pm. Most function bands will play 2 x 60 minute performances, and we'd suggest the first to start no earlier than 9pm so guests have time to get a drink and have a chat before the music starts.
Venue + fancy dress + look alike's + casino tables + live band or DJ
For a different take on the traditional fancy dress party, try a celebrity or film theme to suit the mood you want to create. Fancy dress can be completely optional and example contemporary themes could include Lady Gaga, Footballers Wives, Sex and The City, Harry Potter or Pirates of the Caribbean. For tried and tested favourites go with James Bond, Phantom of the Opera, The Godfather, Alice in Wonderland or Hollywood Oscars Night.
Don't forget professional look alike's who will add a real wow factor to your party. To really get your guests talking why not arrange a red carpet entrance to your venue & have them arrive in a hired limousine! Alive Network has look alike's to match many tv shows & films as well as musicians, footballers & royalty. Also consider hiring a photographer or comedy paparazzi photographers to take snaps as the look alike's arrive, and then later on guests can have their photos taken with them & take the pics home as a party souvenir.
It's good to ensure there are plenty of attractions to keep guests talking & mingling so you could also consider casino tables which can tie in nicely with the celebrity theme and create a space for guests to meet, mix and break the ice. Also check out our mix and mingle acts who will work the floor & get people talking.
As always live music makes a great feature and
you can choose an act to suit the celebrity theme. Tribute Bands often fit the bill perfectly for themed events or for something more background, try a jazz band or string quartet. If you have a small number of guests or a limited budget, also take a look at our solo/duo acts who offer excellent value for money and won't take up much room.
With any themed event it's also important to get the staging and venue right. If your budget allows, try www.smyle.co.uk or www.themetraders.com who offer top class event production services. For a more DIY approach, try www.partybox.co.uk or for a huge range of backdrops & scene setters, visit www.amazingpartythemes.com
Venue + prop hire + fancy dress + live music + mix & mingle
It you're prepared to do a bit of decorative work (or have the budget to hire a party organiser like Theme Traders) then you can theme your venue or marquee to look like a beach bar, a scene from the arabian nights or even the Wild West! Fancy dress is optional though it does help bring the whole thing together. For fancy dress costumes try www.escapade.co.uk or www.fancydress.com. For childrens fancy dress costumes try www.charliecrow.com
Possible theme locations include The Wild West, Beach/Tropical/Hawian, New York, Las Vegas, African/Safari, Ancient Egypt, Atlantis, Ancient Rome, Mardi Gras/New Orleans, the list goes on. For more party theme ideas try www.partydelights.co.uk and www.amazingpartythemes.com.
In terms of making your venue look the part, you can chose from a wide range of props and accessories. For example, for a Hawain themed party you can hire a bamboo beach bar, free standing & table top palm trees, hoola hoops, flower garlands, surf boards, fishing nets and sand pits! Just visit some of the links on this page to find suppliers once you know the theme you want to run with.
Remember to ensure you have plenty of ice breakers to keep guests chatting and mixing. Close up Magicians, Caricaturists, Meet & Greet all work well, as do Chocolate Fountians! For something a bit different, try Singing Waiters who will really bring the house down!
Moving away from the traditional concept of a party, many people now celebrate a significant occassion with a day out at an activity and adventure centre, moving on to a bar or restaurant in the evening. There are hundreds of such activity locations around the UK so we'll focus here on popular activity types.
For the guys: Paintball, Go Karting, Quad Biking, Golf, Wine Tours, Clay Pigeon Shooting & Football
For the Girls: Day at the Races, Pampering, Salsa Dancing, Pole Dancing, Wine tasting & Nude Life Drawing
To arrange an activity day we can highly recommend our friends at www.freedomltd.com who arrange stag & hen parties, plus corporate and birthday party outings across the UK.
Essential Party Planning Supplies
Click the links below to view suppliers for all your essential party requirements.
Why hire entertainment for your party from Alive Network?
Alive Network is the UK's premier live music entertainment agency and the largest online entertainment booking service in the world. Established in 1999, we provide high quality live entertainment for over 5000 events per year. We represent hundreds of the UK's very best live bands, DJs & entertainers who are available to hire for weddings, corporate events & private parties. A few of the benefits of booking through Alive Network Entertainment Agency
Instant online quotes and availability confirmation
100's of professional quality, reliable artists
Fast, friendly, personalised advice from expert staff
The easiest way to hire amazing entertainment
A small selection of our previous clients:
24 hour emergency cover, 365 days of the year.
Safe & secure bookings with comprehensive contracts
Registered offices: Ground Floor Suite, Silk Mill Studios, Princess Street, Newcastle under Lyme, Staffordshire, ST5 1DD, United Kingdom
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Birthday Party Ideas
Recent reviews for Birthday Party Entertainment
04/10/2010
Review from Suzanne Henry
Venue + Live Band
Venue + prop hire + fancy dress + live music + mix & mingle
Moving away from the traditional concept of a party, many people now celebrate a significant occassion with a day out at an activity and adventure centre, moving on to a bar or restaurant in the evening. There are hundreds of such activity locations around the UK so we'll focus here on popular activity types.
Instant online quotes and availability confirmation