Birthday Party Ideas & Birthday Party Entertainment!

A Brief History Of Birthdays

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!!

Birthday Party Ideas For Adults / Grown-Ups

As an adult, the possibilities are endless with regards to how you can celebrate your birthday. Here just a few examples:

Adults' Birthday Party Entertainment Ideas >>>

Bands Who Offer Bandeoke

'Night Out' Themed Events

Vegas / Hollywood Themed Events

Children's Birthday Party Ideas

Try the following themes as a starting point when organising kids birthday parties.

Childrens' Birthday Party Entertainment Ideas >>>

Birthday Party Ideas

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.