A birthday is a once a year occasion. Hence every effort is made to ensure that the event is a success. Unfortunately, the current recession has crashed one too many parties and birthday celebrations are no exception. This puts the parents in a rather difficult situation. While they are desperately trying to save every penny, they certainly do not want to see their financial situation ruin the most important day of their children. With that being said, there are a few things that families can do to keep their kids birthday parties within their budget and plan a great celebration, all at the same time.

Birthday Fun under the Sun

Parks offer a great alternative to indoor birthday parties. Public parks are free and provide fun outdoor activities under the sunny skies. State parks are also a viable option and the cost to enter is next to nothing compared to most expensive theme parks. Due to their vast area, parks can easily accommodate gatherings of all sizes.

Bounce Houses Birthday Parties

Bounce Houses are a huge hit with both children and adults. Not only do they keep the little ones busy, they also give the parents a much needed break and help them socialize with other people. Bounce house birthday parties for kids are generally held in industrial parks but depending on the season and your area, they can even be held in your local park.

Fast Food Restaurants

Fast food is cheap, delicious and more importantly, a favorite among kids. Fast food restaurants are a great place to hold birthday parties for kids. However, that’s not the only benefit they offer. Most fast food restaurants come with a kids playing area. As soon as the kids are done eating their meals, they can simply storm into the play area with their newest action figures as the parents watch nearby.

Make Your Own Cake

You can get a great cake from the local super market. However there is something special about making your own custom cake. It is relatively easy to make and it doesn’t have to be perfect as long as it has all the ingredients kids love, mainly chocolate.

Trim Down the Guest List

Obviously, the less people you invite to your kids birthday party, the lower the cost. Start with your child’s closest friends and family and work your way down.

Children used to big birthday parties might find it difficult to adjust to a smaller one. Nevertheless, parents should not hesitate to talk to them and let them know that this year’s birthday party will not be as extravagant as the previous year. As long as they get to invite their friends, receive presents, a big cake and their favorite meal along with a few other extra privileges for the day, they will be as cool as a cucumber. Recession does not mean that you cut down on your kid’s birthday parties. It just means that you think smarter when throwing one.