We've steered you toward 10 Atlanta vendors that will make your kid's party memorable, but what if you haven't budgeted for all the bells and whistles this year? If you're able to put your little bit of cash to work with some time and effort, consider these tips for Atlanta birthday parties on a budget:
Location
First, think about where you are going to celebrate your child's special day. Identify where your money is going regardless of whether or not you're hosting a celebration. Have a membership at a church recreation facility? Are you paying homeowner association fees to maintain a clubhouse in your neighborhood? What's around you and open to taxpayers in your area? Visit the Parks and Recreation page on the city of Atlanta website (or your city/county) to help you find the perfect party location that's free and open to the public. If you are looking for something more private, many locations can be reserved for a small fee.
If you are leaning toward staying at home, consider the sensible, seasonal things to do. If your child has a birthday during warmer weather, backyard bashes are a given. Sandcastle building competitions or digs for hidden treasure are just a few of the activities that pair perfectly with a few 50 pound bags of play sand. The sand will run you less than $5 a bag at Home Depot and Lowe's. Fall parties mean pumpkin decorating or fun craft projects with leaves. Leaves are free and abundant, and you'd be surprised to learn the average success rate of getting kids excited about them. Every season has something to offer. Follow the store coupons, the weather, and the corresponding "do it yourself" information out there, and you'll have the perfect birthday party at home.
Entertainment
Let's say your kid needs more entertainment than what the endless party idea websites have to offer. Atlanta always has free festivals and events going on, and one is bound to happen around your child's special day. Parades and fun, free events can be found here. Enter a search for free events to see what might spark a meet-up party, followed by a cake and ice cream picnic. Your kid will think everyone in the community has gathered for him, and it won't be like any other birthday gathering he's attended.
Televised sporting events, concerts and awards shows are more predictable and contained, and they are wildly entertaining for anyone invested in the key players and stars. Plan your kid's party around Saturday college football, the Grammys or the upcoming 2016 Summer Olympics. Everyone can dress as their favorite team, athlete or musician. The theme possibilities are abundant with so much on TV these days, and the rest falls into place from there.
If your child is more active, gather all of her friends for a fun run that benefits the charity of her choice. Have parents pay their child's entry fee in place of a gift. There is always a race going on, and this will encourage your child to get moving and give back. Kids events and entertainment also often accompany family fun runs. Find these runs on this race calendar compiled by Big Peach Running Co.
Food
Kids are often just as passionate about the food at their party as they are about the entertainment and location. It is easy to spend hundreds of dollars on catering, but restaurant or pre-made food is not a must.
If there is one thing worth buying pre-made, some will agree that the cake is a lot easier bought than baked at home. If you live by this motto, consider the grocery store cakes or even an ice cream cake from the freezer section. No need to consult your wedding cake baker for your child's fourth birthday party. If you're up for baking, you can save yourself a lot of money here. You can also always lean on trusty, cost-effective alternatives like a Rice Krispy treat cake or a large pan of homemade Jello to hold the candles, and then cut them into fun shapes for the kids.
Have the kids help make the food as a part of your party set-up. If a movie night sleepover is on the agenda, grab some ingredients for the kids to make their own snack mix, and then you've accomplished keeping the kids occupied while giving them a delicious snack of their choice.
Check out what is in season or on sale in your grocery store. Research party recipes that incorporate these items.
Remember: Cater to your child's interests in a way that's not too over the top. Use community events and free resources to your advantage. Pinterest and Oriental Trading are your friends for inspiration and cost-effective ideas and materials. Food can be fun and does not have to be from the most expensive bakery or restaurant. You can make this work, and your kids will love a day celebrating in a way that not only speaks to them, but saves you lots of money.
