The Funplex

Looking for the perfect NJ birthday party? The Funplex offers exciting indoor rides, arcade games and attractions for unforgettable celebrations. Booking is easy! We handle setup, cleanup and hosting, so you can relax and create lasting memories. Give your child the best birthday ever!

The Funplex Mount Laurel
3320-24 NJ-38, Mt. Laurel
856-273-9666

The Funplex East Hanover
182 NJ-10, East Hanover
973-428-1166

Glitter & Glam

Your child deserves to have a fairy tale experience on her special day. At Glitter & Glam, we make it happen. We’re a pretend kids’ spa that offers children’s party services in Paramus, Jersey City, Ocean County, West Nyack (NY) and King of Prussia (PA).

We make every child’s dream come true with our once-in-a-lifetime party packages and lavish spa experience. Count on our glam squad to make your child’s birthday party one they will never forget.

Get in touch with us today to learn more about our individual services for kids, kid’s party packages, and spa party packages.

Locations:
Paramus – Paramus Park Mall
Jersey City – Newport Centre Mall
Ocean County – Ocean County Mall, Toms River
West Nyack – Palisades Center Mall
King of Prussia – King Of Prussia Mall

Jenkinson’s Boardwalk

Jenkinson’s Boardwalk is your ultimate birthday party destination! Whether you are looking for a party in the aquarium, arcade or amusement park, our parties provide a unique and exciting birthday experience! Visit Jenkinsons.com for more information.

Jenkinson’s Boardwalk
Point Pleasant
https://jenkinsons.com/groups-parties/

Aquarium Birthday Parties
birthdays@jenkinsons.com
732-892-0600, ext. 106

Arcade & Amusement Birthday Parties
732-674-6027 – call or text

Monster Mini-Golf

A Monster Mini Golf® Birthday Party is fun for all ages and takes the stress out of hosting a birthday party at home. Your dedicated Memory Makers take care of all the details to make sure the Guest of Honor is celebrated, while having a blast with their friends!

Monster Mini Golf® keeps the adult experience in mind as well, as their posh Haunted Mansion Party Rooms, with comfortable and authentic seating and hand-picked antique furniture, are like a warm hug from grandma.

Monster Mini-Golf – Edison
775 US-1, Edison
732-248-4400

Monster Mini-Golf – Fairfield
194 US 46 E., Fairfield
973-244-0026

Monster Mini-Golf – Paramus
49 E. Midland Ave., Paramus
201-261-0032

Urban Air

Get ready for the ultimate party experience at Urban Air Adventure Park! With thrilling attractions and endless fun, Urban Air is the perfect spot to celebrate your next birthday party. Book your party now and make unforgettable memories with friends and family.

Locations: South Hackensack, Milltown, Avenel, Parsippany, Brooklyn

The post Where to Throw an Epic Birthday Party for the Kids in New Jersey appeared first on NJ Family.

You’ve done the Disney princesses and Marvel superheroes, the pool parties, the Chuck E. Cheese experience. Now you’re looking for more unique options guaranteed to earn you “coolest mom” status. To spark your creativity, we’ve put together some venues, vendors and services sure to get you—and your child—primed to host the best birthday bash ever!

BRING THE PARTY TO YOU 

Rev up the fun with these on-the-go options. A favorite with kids of all ages, GameTruck pulls into your driveway and kids get on board and choose from 120+ games to play. GameTruck’s high-definition TVs amp up the party atmosphere along with music, ultra-comfy seating and engaging game coaches.

Kids will have a blast with Bubble Man from NJ Bubble Parties, who’ll bring the play to your kids, especially those ages 3–5 years, with interactive music and dancing, bubble tricks and the ever-popular “kid in a bubble” finale.

Mobile Makers’ specialty is “art anywhere”— creatively adventurous DIY craft and sensory pop-up parties for all ages, brought to your outdoor space in their tricked-out trailer.

Offering high-energy parties tailored to kids of all ages, Party Maniacs come to you with fast-paced music and games like the crowd-pleasing toilet paper blower.

Neon Circus NYC provides Glow In the Dark Circus for home-based birthday parties as well as its space in Hackensack for celebrations and master classes. The show experience is an hour, followed by two hours to celebrate.

For after-party desserts, you can’t go wrong with the tasty treats from Curbside Confections, a mobile caterer that brings sweet treats to you. Be sure to check out their new Gourmet Cotton Candy mini Jeep and their physical store in Park Ridge.

ANIMAL ATTRACTIONS 

Little Hooves Farm creates a fun farm experience where kids get to groom ponies, play with goats, hold chickens and learn all sorts of fascinating farm facts.

At Hunter Brook Horse Farm birthday parties feature a petting zoo, a horse that does tricks, grooming session, arts and crafts, mini riding lesson, karaoke and more. With indoor and outdoor areas, the farm can host your party any time of year.

You’ll reap a rich harvest of fun at Alstede Farms. A real working farm, it offers activity-themed party packages, available seven days a week, or a basic rental option, available Mondays through Fridays, that lets you customize your event. Choose from year-round indoor parties or seasonal outdoor-tented celebrations; make your party extra-special with add-ons like pony rides, hay wagon rides and the sunflower maze.

For a wild and wonderful nature experience, check out the theme parties—Silly Scavenger Hunt (ages 2-5), BEARthday party (ages 6-8), Survival (ages 8-12) and Magical Beasts (all ages)—at the Tenafly Nature Center.

ADVENTURE ABOUNDS 

For a seasonal outdoors experience big on daring-do, embark on high seas thrills with Jersey Shore Pirates, which offers customizable parties on a “pirate” ship. Equipped with eye patches and swords, mini-mates will work the cannons, battle enemy pirates, hoist sunken treasure, and take home lots of loot and pirate yarns.

The sky’s the limit on the fun kids will have at Urban Air Trampoline & Adventure Park, an indoor trampoline center hosting open jump, Ninja obstacle courses, climbing walls and other test-your-limits activities for birthday groups.

Fast-paced variety is the name of the game at SkyZone, including ultimate dodgeball, SkyJoust, skyline, zipline and Toddler Zone.

As the name suggests, kids are in charge at Kids Rule Parties. Open in various NJ locations, partygoers can play glow ball, human bumper balls, laser tag and inflatable handball.

Kids will enjoy birthdays of T-Rex proportions at Field Station: Dinosaurs, an outdoor family attraction that combines science with movie-worthy thrills in a Paleozoic world of awe and learning.

GETTING CRAFTY AND PAMPERED

Messy hands and big imaginations are encouraged at Clay Paper Scissors Studio, a unique crafting destination offering hands-on creative parties for children 5+, including slime-tastic fun, jewelry making, tie-dye and pop art collage.

At Tie Dye Town Events, kids of all ages get to rotate through various arts and crafts stations such as making their own tie-dye T-shirt or other clothing article, decorating their own jewelry box and creating spin art pictures. Party with them in one of their locations in Englewood, New City, NY and Manhattan, or let them bring the party to you.

Birthday parties are works of art at the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey. Choose your art medium and the center will customize a themed project of your choice. Held on Sundays for kids ages five and older, the Visual Art Center’s parties feature an instructor, assistant and art supplies; you bring the refreshments, decorations and other extras.

At The Center for Contemporary Art, choose from several creative and educational art projects, ideal for kids, ages 5 to 15 years old. CCA parties, held on Saturdays and Sundays, consist of an art-centric activity with an art teacher and art supplies; you bring the birthday extras.

Glitter & Glam in Paramus, Jersey City and West Nyack, NY, is a salon and spa where girls can indulge in mani-pedis and facials while wearing comfy robes.

At Flora’s Cottage teens and tweens celebrate their special day by making their own facemasks, bath bombs or lip balms in the shop’s pretty, intimate setting.

CALLING ALL BRAINIACS

If educational, entertaining, science-driven options are what you’re seeking, these birthday celebrations earn high marks.

Designed for kids 3-12, Mad Science of Northeast NJ offers diverse packages with optional add-ons. The Mad Lab’s two-hour experience has interactive stations, a unique show and a party room for food and cake. They also offer no-mess, no-stress home parties with spectacular chemical reactions, rocket launches, plasma balls and more.

Do your kids want to put their wits to the test while living out stories of mystery, magical lore and exploration? Then The Other Tales Escape Rooms are definitely a smart choice. Solve puzzles and explore stories in worlds that are immersive with authentic settings, logical puzzles and surprising storylines. All games (none scary or physically strenuous) are private. They’re designed with adults and teens in mind but the staff can set up easier versions of the games if you have 10- to 12-year-olds.

At Escapology Holmdel, you can choose from six games of varying difficulties and party packages to test your birthday group. Search for clues, solve puzzles and escape within 60 minutes.

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60+ Freebies You Can Get On Your Birthday

The post Plan a Next-Level Birthday Party For Your Kid appeared first on NJ Family.

Birthdays are so much fun to celebrate, and even better with tons of freebies that you can get either on the day of your birth or during your birth month. Sign up for theses rewards programs and let the gifts roll in!

Ace Hardware
If being physical is your idea of the perfect birthday, head to Ace to spend your birthday cash. Through the Ace Rewards program you’ll also get instant savings, access to special events and free delivery on qualifying orders.

Adventure Aquarium
Camden
Come to the aquarium for free on your birthday and check out all the sharks, stingrays, starfish and penguins. It’s valid for anyone, but you must show proof of age.

AMC Theatres
If you’re a movie buff, the AMC Stubs program gets you a large popcorn and large fountain drink for your birthday, so grab your kids’ friends and plan a party.

American Eagle
Your teen probably loves to shop here so have them sign up for the Real Rewards Program and they’ll get a HBD Coupon.

Anthropologie
If you need a new outfit for your birthday party, sign up for AnthroPerks so you’ll get 20% off your purchase during your birthday month.

Auntie Anne’s
Their sweet or salty perks include a free pretzel for every 250 points earned through their rewards program. You also get a free pretzel after your first order, plus another free pretzel on your birthday.

Baja Fresh
If you join Club Baja, a birthday reward will be loaded into your account seven days prior to the big day. All you have to do is give your phone number to the cashier and present your ID to get your gift. Make sure you get to your favorite resto within seven days after your birthday or the reward will expire.

Baskin Robbins
We all scream for ice cream! When you opt into the Birthday Club, you’ll get a coupon for a free 4-ounce scoop through the Baskin-Robbins Mobile App.

Benihana
If you want to celebrate your birthday eating hibachi, sign up in advance for The Chef’s Table and you’ll receive a $30 birthday certificate for the month of your birthday.

Bertucci’s Brick Oven Pizza & Pasta
Become a part of Dough Nation and you’ll not only get a special birthday gift, but also one on your anniversary.

Bob’s Stores
Sign up for their rewards program and you’ll get $10 to spend on anything from sportswear and sneakers to home goods and candy.

Buffalo Wild Wings
Sign up for Blazin’ Rewards and aside from earning points for free food, you’ll get six free wings during your birthday month. Choose your sauce!

Build-a-Bear
Stuffed animals are a great birthday gift, and the Bonus Club allots you a special reward on your birthday.

Burger King
Have it your way on your birthday, and every day. The BK Royal Perks plan lets you earn double the crown during the entire month of your bday. You may also be eligible for free upsizes, redemption on delivery orders and exclusive challenges.

Carvel
Calling all Fudgie Fanatics! Stop by for a free ice cream cone on your birthday. While you’re waiting, check out their selection of Flying Saucers and Fudgie the Whale cakes to take home for your birthday party.

The Cheesecake Factory
You always have to save room for dessert! After your meal, ask for a complimentary birthday sundae with a tiny scoop of vanilla ice cream, fudge, whipped cream, confetti pieces and a candle. If you order dessert (which you’ll have to pay for), they will personalize the plate with “Happy Birthday” and your name written in chocolate or caramel. They decorate the plate with candy confetti and place a candle on top.

Chick-fil-A
If you love your chicken, join the Chick-fil-A One program to earn points with every order. You’ll receive random rewards and bonus point challenges, plus a birthday reward valid for 30 days.

Chili’s
The rewards program lets you get free chips and salsa and a free non-alcoholic beverage every time you visit! For your birthday you can choose a free dessert as well. Other rewards throughout the year include free kids meals, delivery, appetizers and desserts.

Chipotle Mexican Grill
Chipotle Rewards gets you free instant guacamole, a gift on your birthday, achievement badges and access to new menu items and merch.

Cinnabon
The rewards here keep on rolling! For a sweet treat on your bday, sign up for a free 16-ounce cold brew. Plus, you get a free four-count of BonBites just for signing up!

Cold Stone Creamery
My Cold Stone Club Rewards will load a buy one-get one free Creation loaded to your account right off the bat — and then you’ll get another one loaded for your birthday.

Crumbl Cookies
Get a free cookie every year on your birthday through the app.

CVS
Members get 2% back in ExtraBucks Rewards, plus a new birthday treat each year, too.

Denny’s
Get a taste of their rewards program when you get 20% off your next visit when you join, plus a free birthday gift every year.

DSW
Every girl loves a new pair of shoes, so enjoy $5 off your purchase if you need new heels or boots before your birthday party.

Dunkin’
Start off with free food and drinks, then unlock your Boosted Status to earn points faster and earn members-only offers. Rewards arrange from li’l treats to coffee and tea to breakfast sandwiches. Members enjoy triple the points on the day before, the day of and the day after their birthday.

Edible
If you become a Sweet Perks member you can get a free birthday gift, VIP benefits and a free chocolate-dipped fruit box with every third purchase.

Einstein Bros. Bagels
Join the Schmear Society and you’ll get a free bagel and schmear on your birthday.

Famous Footwear
Buy yourself your own birthday present by spending your $5 reward on yourself, or earn double the points during your birthday month.

Firehouse Subs
Sign up for Firehouse Rewards before your birthday and you’ll be entitled to a free medium sub, valid once on your birthday or for six days after. You must be at least 16 to sign up for the program or download the app.

Houlihan’s Restaurant + Bar
The email club offers you freebies and fun. You get $10 off just for joining, a free entree on your birthday and access to lots of swag.

IHOP
IHOP’s MyHop program nets you a free stack of five pancakes after your first purchase, plus more free pancakes if you have your birthday breakfast there. Look out for secret menu offerings and exclusive offers.

Jamba Juice
Sign up online or download the app and you’ll be privy to a welcome reward of 50% off a smoothie, a return reward of 50% off a food item, delivery and exclusive rewards. For your birthday, as long as you have 15 points in your account (which is the equivalent to having spent $15) you’ll get a free smoothie.

JCPenney
Stop by the store for a birthday gift and enjoy other benefits like rewards coupons, cash back, double points, and credit savings days when you join JCP Rewards.

Jersey Mike’s Subs
MyMike’s offers you a free sub every year on your birthday. You earn points to more free subs during the year, too.

Kohl’s
Rewards members get a special birthday gift every year. If you enroll in a Kohl’s credit card you get additional personalized perks and something for your anniversary.

Krispy Kreme Doughnuts
Donuts are amazing — free donuts are even more amazing! Sign up and get a free donut anytime during your birthday month. You get a free donut for signing up to the program. Then, enjoy members-only treatment.

Longhorn Steakhouse
Sign up for the eClub and you’ll get special coupons and offers for your special day.

McDonald’s
If you are 18 or older and have downloaded the McD’s app, you can get a free order of medium fries for your birthday. We dare you not to order anything else off the menu!

The Melting Pot
Sign up for Club Fondue and you’ll get a birthday voucher to use when you dip into their cheese and chocolate concoctions.

Moe’s Southwest Grill
Don’t wait for Taco Tuesday to celebrate your birthday! If you sign up for Moe Rewards you get a free cup of queso. Every year you’ll get a free burrito on your birthday.

Nothing Bundt Cakes
Join the eClub to receive exclusive offers, new flavor announcements and a free Bundtlet on your birthday.

Old Navy
Your birthday bonus through the Navyist Rewards program adds extra points to your account.

Olive Garden
When you’re here, you’re family, so bring your family on your birthday and you’ll get a complimentary dessert. To receive other offers, sign up for the eClub.

On The Border
Sign up for Border Rewards through either the app or the website and your first reward will either be a free guacamole appetizer, dessert or non-alcoholic beverage. On your big day stop by and receive a special surprise on the house.

Panera Bread
MyPanera is all about the perks: you get a free sweet treat, pastry or bagel with every purchase! On the day of your birth, get a free sweet treat as well.

P.F. Chang’s
Whether you are a gold or platinum member of the rewards program, you’ll get a complimentary birthday dessert after dinner.

Red Lobster
My Red Lobster Rewards App members get special benefits like coupons, special offers, a free birthday reward and insider information. Once you become a platinum member you’ll get double the points on to-go orders.

Red Robin
Through the Royalty program you will be treated like a king and get a free burger on your birthday. You also get your 10th item for free just because you signed up.

Rita’s Ice
Download the new app and you’ll be treated to free treats, birthday rewards and more.

Ruby Tuesday
Drop in seven days before or 14 days after your big celebration and you’ll get a free dessert. Bring your peeps to help you blow out the candles! If you’re eating healthy, you can choose a free Garden Bar add-on to your meal instead of a sweet treat.

Sbarro
Pizza lovers can join The Slice Society to get a free surprise on your birthday.

Sephora
Every year, Sephora offers different gift sets for its Beauty Insider rewards members. Choose from mini skincare, makeup, haircare or fragrance bundles. You can redeem your gift two weeks prior or two weeks after your birth date. If you don’t have a BI account, you can sign up for free and get your birthday gift immediately.

SmashBurger
Make your birthday a smash by enrolling in the SmashRewards member portal. You can earn a free Shmash Fries, Classic Smash or both on your birthday, depending on your membership status level.

Sonic
Download the app so you’ll get your free small classic shake on your birthday. Other benefits include a free Route 44 soft drink or a half-priced Blast.

Starbucks
Free coffee is a tap away on the Starbucks app. You get free drinks, food and more with as little as 25 star rewards points. You get a free birthday treat, plus coffee and tea refills.

Target
Target Circle benefits includes a free birthday gift on your day, in addition to access to deals, special offers, and the ability to vote on where Target contributes to in your community.

T.G.I. Friday’s
It’s always Friday here, but no matter what day of the week your birthday falls on, you can come by for a free dessert. The Rewards Program kicks off with a free appetizer as well.

Tilly’s
If you complete your profile, you’ll get a birthday surprise. Members get Tilly’s Cash Rewards, too.

Torrid
Whether you are an Insider, Loyalist or VIP, you’ll get a special birthday gift every year. That’s in addition to rewards points and Torrid Cash you can trade in for cool merch.

Ulta Beauty
When you set up your Ultamate Rewards account, check your email for an offer of 2X Bonus Points on all purchases in the calendar month of your birthday. You get a free birthday gift, too. Platinum and Diamond members will receive an extra birthday gift in addition to these gifts!

Victoria’s Secret
Your favorite sleep, sport, swim and loungewear store celebrates you not once, but twice, a year, with a coupon on your birth day and your half-birthday but you’ll have to enroll in their credit card program.

Get the latest on the best things to do with your family in and around New Jersey by signing up for our newsletter and following us on Pinterest, Facebook and Instagram!

Read More: 
Kids Can Eat Free at Applebee’s
Plan a Pizza-Making Party For Your Next Birthday

The post 60+ Freebies You Can Get on Your Birthday appeared first on NJ Family.

New Jersey is known for its great pizza (take that, New York!) so if you have some budding chefs in your family, take them to a pizza making party where they can get their hands on the best pizza they’ll ever make!

Carlo’s Gourmet Pizza in Marlboro offers a dining room for up to 30 guests where you can make your own pizza, almost from scratch. Chef Matt brings out handmade dough from a secret Carlo’s recipe and splits it so everyone has their own personal pizza shell, roughly 8-10 inches across.

He dips the dough in a bit of flour and sets it down in front of you, ready for some kneading. Using a wave-like motion you press and stretch the dough to your desired size. One of our personal chefs (a 3-year-old) very seriously said, “Don’t worry Mommy, I’ll teach you” which shows how simple it is.

This class is geared toward kids so even the littlest fingers can get to work, but adults have just as much fun, too. It gets a tiny bit messy from the flour, but no aprons required!

While you’re beginning to design your edible masterpiece, Chef Matt shows off his skills, tossing the dough in the air. Note to parents: don’t let your kids try this at home – or at the restaurant – unless you don’t mind flying dough.

After the trained chef places your dough onto the baking board, it’s time to add marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella. Watch your sleeves for sauce! The kids grabbed for chunks of cheese while the adults designed their signature pies – one laid out the number 40 in cheese for her age, another tried to make an upside-down pie with a layer of cheese underneath the sauce.

After everyone took photos of their pizza pre-cooking, Chef Matt brought the individual boards, which were labeled by number, to the oven. In about 10 minutes the pizzas were ready, and the kids loved peering over the counter to see their pies come out one by one. There’s nothing like the sound of a pizza cutter breaking through fresh crust!

Carlo’s offers straight cheese pizza for the class without extra toppings, but that wasn’t a concern since the pizza was hot, crusty and delicious.

Since you can order anything else you want off their menu, we were a bit full by the time the pizza arrived, but that meant extra leftovers for the next day!

If you’re having a party, you can bring decorations and cake. It makes for a very festive and yummy occasion.

Carlo’s Gourmet Pizza is located at 326 Route 9 in Marlboro off of Union Hill Road. For the pizza making, prices start at $18 per person. Kids and adults of any age can participate. Call 732-536-6070 to inquire about availability of dates and times.

The post Plan a Pizza-Making Party For Your Kid’s Next Birthday appeared first on NJ Family.

 “Throwing a party was something we went back and forth on,” says stylist Tiffany Piñero of Scotch Plains about her daughter Lumi’s 2nd birthday last summer. “But it had been such a hard six months of isolation that we went the safest route with everyone being COVID tested before [our] small gathering in our backyard.”

Since Lumi loves the movie “Trolls” that was reflected in the decorations. “After our 400th time of viewing it I knew as her birthday approached this would be our theme!” says Tiffany. She noticed in one of the scenes a bunch of hanging, colorful lanterns so she took that image and ran with it for the party.  “Lucky us, we have big gorgeous trees and I was able to hang strands of paper lanterns from there,” she says.

TIFFANY PIÑERO

A shopping trip in Cape May yielded the beautiful, vintage white table cloth and napkins, which she dyed pink, picking up on the current tie-dye trend. “I went with more of a dip-dyed technique but it was perfect,” says Tiffany.

For the tablescape, she kept things youthful and fun for the kids and used a lot of things she already owned to make it feel exciting and interesting. “I used items of different shapes and heights to deliver the whimsy,” she says.

TIFFANY PIÑERO

Tiffany’s younger sister is a graphic designer (@brit_lifeoftheparty) and she did all the custom touches including Trolls VIP passes for the guests, Troll hair (aka cotton candy), Pin the nose on Poppy and little signs that said ‘Hug time!’ “Aunt Britt slayed!” she says.

“I learned how to do balloons and event decor from my mom who owns her own event decorating business, Party With Mia. I had to include a few balloons columns here and there to give the enchantment factor.” Tiffany added little strands of faux greenery to the white balloons to create a “forest feeling.”

“I took a lot of what we had inside and brought it out — kids table and chairs, blankets, pillows. Just seeing those items not in their usual environment raises the fun and fantasy factor especially for a kids party. ”

With help from her sister and her mom, food catered by The Salad House Westfield and a cake from Cake Artist Cafe, the party turned out to be pure Trolls magic.

TIFFANY PIÑERO

The post The Sweetest Trolls Birthday Party Ever appeared first on NJ Family.

Your Fully Charged Life author Meaghan B Murphy’s mom’s 70th birthday party was canceled at the start of COVID but later turned into a beautiful surprise dinner at Meaghan’s Westfield home. The event was Planned by Personal Touch Catering Experience in Hackensack. Ashley Allegretta of Personal Touch did an incredible job of not only making it a beautiful night, but also including special details just for Nana.

LAUREN ANZEVINO

“Breathtaking” is how Meaghan describes the flowers from Wildflowers florist in Englewood Cliffs, a business that specializes in high end design and beautiful events. The table and chairs were rented from RentQuest, which brought the whole event to another level of sophistication.

The celebration was complete with an amazing balloon wall from @partywithusnj that served as a backdrop for memorable photos and of course tons of fun Instagram posts.

LAUREN ANZEVINO

Meaghan is a huge supporter of her local NJ businesses and the party came together with help from so many local creative talents. But the best part was how she figured out a way to still celebrate her mom’s major milestone birthday, even in the midst of a pandemic. When Nana finally got to see her 11 grandkids together, there wasn’t a dry eye in the yard and that made it all worth it!

LAUREN ANZEVINO

The post See Pics of This Gorgeous Milestone Birthday Party appeared first on NJ Family.

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© istockphoto.com / juliannafunk

Looking to plan a bash your kid will remember for years to come? HOST A celebration at one of these next-level venues.

photo © Michael Soluri Photography

Space Blast

The idea: Buehler Challenger and Science Center is perfect for your budding astronaut and his crew. This longtime Paramus staple will blast your kid off into space on the simulated mission Rendezvous with Comet Halley. After an hour of pre-flight training, kids in fifth grade and older get to suit up and assume the role of a real space team member, completing experiments, giving navigational orders, monitoring health and life support and more. Bonus? They get out-of-this-world astronaut ice cream (freeze-dried!) to take home. Birthday missions for pre-K and up.

The details: Buehler Challenger and Science Center, Paramus. bcsc.org. Call for prices

Photo courtesy battleship new jersey

Super-Cool Sleepovers

The idea: He can spend the night on a legendary ship with friends at Battleship NJ. They’ll watch a simulated launch of a Tomahawk missile and chow down on a soldier-style dinner. During the ship tour, they’ll see the captain’s and admiral’s cabins and climb the ship’s original ladders.
Book a birthday party camp-in at Garden State Discovery Museum and the kiddos will enjoy dozens of interactive science exhibits. After dark, they’ll curl up in the storybook castle, stargaze in the night exhibit and nosh on midnight snacks.
STEM kids will have a blast at Liberty Science Center, especially at night when there are no crowds. Make sure they don’t miss the Touch Tunnel or Skyscraper exhibit before they hit the hay.
If you’re looking for something more luxurious, try a hotel suite à la Eloise. At Embassy Suites in Parsippany, a birthday package includes popcorn, pizza and soda, plus access to a swimming pool and movie library.

The details: Battleship NJ, Camden. battleshipnewjersey.org. $69 per child
Embassy Suites Hotel, Parsippany. embassysuites3.hilton.com. $274-284 per night for 4-6 guests
Garden State Discovery Museum, Cherry Hill. discoverymuseum.com. $35 per child, 15 child minimum
Liberty Science Center, Jersey City. lsc.org. $60 per child.

photo courtesy High Exposure rock climbing

Ninja Warrior Fun

The idea: There are rock climbing spots all over NJ, but only a handful cater to your future American Ninja Warrior star. If she’s watched the likes of Joe Moravsky or Kacy Catanzaro on TV, she’ll love trying to get up the warped wall, attempting the salmon ladder or racing her friends through a challenging obstacle course. The kids will be bouncing off the walls, and you won’t be complaining a bit. These high-energy gyms offer every kind of climbing obstacle or balancing act she could imagine, and she can master some serious parkour skills during the party, too. Important to note: Signed waivers are necessary, so make sure to send the link with invites.

The details: High Exposure Rock Climbing, Northvale. highexposureclimbing.com. $369 for 10 kids
HudsonPlay, Jersey City. hudsonplaynj.com. $449 for 10 guests
Pinnacle Parkour, multiple locations. pinnacleparkour.com. $275 for up to 10 children.

photo courtesy top golf

Tee Time

The idea: There are driving ranges, and then there’s Topgolf, a mega entertainment center that boasts 102 climate-controlled hitting bays, a restaurant, gaming area and rooftop terrace. Little golfers will get a dedicated hitting bay for two hours, along with the chance to book a pro who’ll provide pointers.
Even kiddos who don’t love golf will have a blast swinging at a mix of colorful targets into a sprawling outfield. The best part? Microchipped balls score themselves, giving golfers instant feedback on each shot’s accuracy and distance on a computer screen. During the festivities, kids will feast on chicken tenders, mini hot dogs or cheeseburgers. But it’s the venue’s signature dessert— cinnamon sugar-dusted donut holes with chocolate and raspberry sauces—that’ll be the hit of the party.

The details: Topgolf, Edison. topgolf.com. Parties start at $31.03 per child.

photo courtesy chocolate works

Chocolate Making

The idea: If she’s obsessed with all things Willy Wonka, being a chocolatier for a day will blow her mind. She’ll start by molding and making her own chocolate treats before decorating them with tons of sweets. The kids will take a trip through the chocolate car wash, play games, win prizes, eat pizza and take home some seriously indulgent goody bags.

The details: Chocolate Works, multiple locations. chocolateworks.com. $400 for 10 kids; $20 every additional.

photo courtesy glassworks

Glass Fusing

The idea: Your little Picassos have probably had their share of painting or pottery parties, but have they tried glass fusing? Artists-in-training make their own dish or picture frame before it gets fired up in the on-site kiln. FYI: You won’t be able to take their projects home for a week, so plan a designated pick-up spot once everything’s squared away.

The details: Glassworks, Morristown. umakeglass.com. $350 for 10 kids ages 9 and up.

photo courtesy diggerland

Dump Trucks and Diggers

The idea: Diggerland is one of NJ’s most unique spots, giving your truck-loving kid a chance to get behind the wheel of some heavy machinery. She and her pals will spin like crazy on rides made of construction equipment. While this is a hike from North and Central Jersey, we’re betting parents won’t mind making the drive with a bunch of kids since it’s the perfect place for them to channel their inner child. Birthday party admission is for 11 kids and 12 chaperones. The two-hour party includes pizza, a party host and a chance for the birthday girl to dig in the dirt and drive tractors. Even better? Diggerland is open well into November on the weekends, so it’s not limited to kids with summer birthdays.

The details: Diggerland, West Berlin. diggerlandusa.com. Weekend parties start at $369.

photo courtesy american girl

Hit the Big Apple

The idea: She’ll love sharing the spotlight with her favorite doll at American Girl Place. The birthday party crew will munch on crudités, pigs in a blanket and mini cinnamon buns before ordering from the lunch menu, which includes tic-tac-toe pizza, bitty burger bites and more. Little custom-made chairs for each doll hook to a table set with tiny cups and saucers, plus fortunes to read aloud. The party is topped off with a signature cake and ice cream, plus goody bags filled with treats for her favorite doll.
If she loves ice cream, give her a serious sugar rush on her special day with a party at Cool Mess. Kids choose their own base and mix-ins, then transform it into freshly-churned ice cream in a table-top maker. They can pick their own toppings or try a tasty “messipe.” Want lunch or dinner afterwards? Head to Burger Heaven upstairs.

The details: American Girl Place, New York, NY. americangirl.com. $39 per child, $29 per adult
Cool Mess, New York, NY. coolmess.com. Parties start at $36 per child.

The post Host Their Next Birthday Party at One of These Next-Level Spots appeared first on NJ Family.

Photo courtesy Jersey Shore pirates

Set Sail

The details: Your little scallywag would probably love a pirate-themed party at home, but having his birthday celebrated on an actual pirate ship will blow his mind. These pirate adventures deck your little landlubbers in some pirate gear, get them a must-have anchor tattoo (temporary, naturally), before sending them out for an adventure they won’t forget. The party includes sailing time, which is usually a little over an hour, the little mateys getting to shoot a rival pirate with water cannons and a search for sunken treasure. After a high-seas adventure, the kids will enjoy indulging in some pirate booty. And don’t worry that your little ones will be scared—the captain is of the friendly variety and no one will have to walk the plank.

Try: Jersey Shore Pirates, Pier 281 Marina, Brick. 732-899-6100. Parties for up to 43 passengers start at $688, jerseyshorepirates.com; Pirate Time NJ, 73 Blue Heron Dr., Toms River. 732-310-0579. Parties for up to 49 guests start at $695. Piratetimenj.com

photo courtesy topgolf

Tee Time

The details: There are driving ranges and then there’s Topgolf, a mega entertainment center that boasts 102 climate-controlled hitting bays, a restaurant, a gaming area and rooftop terrace. Your little golfer and friends will get a dedicated hitting bay for two hours along with the chance to book a pro who’ll provide pointers to help partygoers with their swing.

Even kiddos who don’t love golf will have a blast swinging at a mix of colorful targets into a sprawling outfield. The best part? Microchipped balls score themselves, providing golfers with instant feedback on each shot’s accuracy and distance on a computer screen. During the party, kids will nosh on chicken tenders, mini hot dogs or cheeseburgers but the venue’s signature desserts— cinnamon-sugar dusted donut holes with chocolate and raspberry sauce— that’ll be the hit of the party.

Try: Topgolf, 1013 U.S. Route 1 Edison, 732-875-7165. Parties start at $31.03 per child. topgolf.com

photo courtesy Scarehouse

The Great Escape

The details: If your tween is into puzzle-solving, detective work or surprises, he’ll love escape rooms. How do they work? Kids enter an area prepped with staged sets filled with props, clues, locks and puzzles that guests try to solve in order to escape before time runs out. Partygoers can expect everything from hidden keys to word puzzles to secret codes along the way.

Rooms are themed, too, so your crew can choose according to the birthday kid’s taste. If you want a classic experience, try Swiss Original at Adventure Rooms in Montclair, where your squad will scavenge for clues and conduct experiments to make their way out. If your kid likes being spooked, try Haunted Scarehouse Escape in Wharton, which doubles as a walk-through haunted house in the fall. Ideal for preteens and up, this venue sends you on a mission to uncover dark secrets about madman John Hayden and his notorious family.

Try: Adventure Rooms, 119 Grove St., Montclair. Kids ages 10-13 must have a parent with them. Tickets start at $30. 973-746-0050. myadventurerooms.com; Haunted Scarehouse Escape, 105 W. Dewey Ave., Wharton. Tickets start at $29. 862-244-4454. hauntedscarehouse.com; Escape Room NJ, 157A Main St, Hackensack, (201) 815-1784. Tickets start at $45. escaperoomnj.com

photo courtesy of american girl place

A NYC Adventure

Give her a serious sugar rush on her special day with a party at Cool Mess. Kids get to choose their own ice cream base and mix-ins, then transform it into freshly churned ice cream in a table-top ice cream maker. Choose toppings yourself or go by one of their tasty “messipes.” Want dinner? Head to Burger Heaven upstairs.

Cool Mess, 137 E. 62nd St., New York, NY. Parties start at $36 per child. 212-355-9834; coolmess.com

If he wants a slumber party, put a unique twist on the night with A Night at the Museum Sleepover at the American Museum of Natural History. Kids ages six to 13 will explore the galleries by flashlight (don’t miss the famous T. rex!), then do some fossil fact-finding and watch a film before bed. Tickets sell out fast, so call ASAP to reserve.

American Museum of Natural History, Central Park W. at 79th St., New York, NY. Sleepovers start at $145 per non-members, discounts for members and groups. 212-769-5100. amnh.org

She’ll love sharing the spotlight with her favorite doll while munching on crudités, pigs in a blanket and mini cinnamon buns as appetizers before ordering from the lunch menu which includes tic-tac-tie pizza, bitty burger bites and more. Little chairs custom made for each doll hook to the table which is set with tiny cups and saucers and fun fortunes to read aloud. The party is topped off with a signature cake and ice cream plus goody bags filled with treats for her favorite doll.

American Girl Place, 609 5th Ave, New York, NY. Parties start at $39 per child, $29 per adult. (877) 247-5223; americangirl.com

photo courtesy high exposure

Ninja Warrior Fun

The details: There are rock climbing spots all over NJ, but only a handful cater to your future American Ninja Warrior star. If she’s watched the likes of Joe Moravsky or Isaac Caldiero on TV, she’ll love trying to get up their warped wall, attempting the salmon ladder or racing her friends through a challenging obstacle course. These high-energy gyms offer every kind of climbing obstacle or balancing act she could imagine, and she can master some serious parkour skills during the hour and a half party. The kids will be bouncing off the walls, and you won’t be complaining a bit. Important to note: Signed waivers are necessary, so make sure to send the link with the invites.

Try: HudsonPlay, 189 Brunswick St., Jersey City, 201-963-4671. Hudsonplaynj.com. Parties start at $449 for 10 guests. High Exposure Rock Climbing, 266 Union Street, Northvale. 201-768-8600 Prices start at $369 for 10 kids. highexposureclimbing.com. Pinnacle Parkour, 1205 Warren Ave, Cherry Hill. 855-PRO-PARKOUR. Pinnacleparkour.com. Prices start at $275 for up to 10 children.

Glass Fusing

photo courtesy glassworks

The details: Your little Picassos nine and up have probably had their share of painting or pottery parties, but have they tried glass fusing yet? Artists-in-training make their own dish or picture frame before it gets fired up in the on-site kiln. FYI: You won’t be able to take their projects home for a week, so make a designated pick-up spot once everything’s squared away.

Try: Glassworks, 151 South St., Morristown; 973-656-0800, umakeglass.com. Prices start at $350 for 10 kids.

Chocolate-Making

photo courtesy chocolate works

The details: If your kid’s obsessed with all things Willy Wonka, being a chocolatier for a day is a dream come true. She’ll start by molding and making her own chocolate treats under the watchful eye of a chocolatier before decorating them with tons of sweet treats.

Try: Chocolate Works, 42 South Park St., Montclair; 973-744-3344, montclair.chocolateworks.com. Prices start at TKTK I emailed her.

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Emojis are having a moment. Not only have they totally changed the way we communicate, but they’re also showing up on T-shirts (we’re guessing your kids are all about the poop emoji), backpacks and even in kids’ bedroom décor. “Anyone who has a phone or computer knows what an emoji is—it’s the new ‘LOL,’” says Brett Galley, director of special events at the Hollywood Pop Gallery in New York City.

There are tons of options for an emoji-themed party. Anders suggests taping cardstock facial features on bright, yellow balloons and using them as part of your backdrop. Or have guests create their own emojis on yellow paper plates to use as photo props.

For snacks, dip Oreos into yellow melting chocolate and then draw emoji faces on them with royal icing. “This is something you can do without having to be a baker,” Anders says.

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There are some popular characters kids are clamoring to have at their next birthday—and they’re not princesses or superheroes. They’re grocery store items you collect, share and trade. Kids are still obsessing over these figurines that even have their own YouTube channel.

“I was surprised this trend wasn’t happening sooner,” says Angela Yu Bae of Angi & Co. “I love Shopkins. My kids love Shopkins. Shopkins are huge!” The best thing about these characters is that there are so many themes.

Bae recommends focusing on one little slice of Shopville as the backdrop to your party, like the Small Mart (a mini supermarket) or Fruit and Veggie Stand, and making it the center of your décor.

Photos courtesy of atozebracelebrations.com

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