Arcade Themed Birthday Party Ideas

Planning a child’s birthday party is nearly as fun as watching the joy unfold the day of the big bash.  There are many ways to host such a party, but one of the more popular is to hold the party at an amusement center.  Most amusement centers offer a plethora of games, attractions, treats and entertainment.  It can be easy to become overwhelmed at all that is offered, and that is just for the parent planning the party!  Imagine the kids as they try to navigate.  Below are five ideas to help plan and host a successful party with arcade games as the theme and centerpiece.

Traditional Arcade

Today, most amusement parks offer both indoor and outdoor games, but once upon a time they were indoor games only or indoor games with just a few outdoor attractions.  A traditional theme would focus more on the arcade games ranging from two player galactic shoot outs to simulated race car driving to games spewing tickets such as skee ball.  Of course such a party wouldn’t be complete without including a traditional outdoor attraction or two such as mini golf, go-carts or bumper cars. 

Contemporary Arcade

Add even more of the fun outdoor attractions to the already popular video arcade games.  For example, include laser tag or rock wall climbing to the list of available outdoor activities for the party guests to enjoy!  Playing laser tag after playing a similar themed game but on an arcade machine can really take the arcade experience to a new level. But beware, this will only increase their appetite, be sure to look for a venue with unlimited buffet for those hungry adventuring guests.

Glowing Arcade

For the tough to impress or maybe a mixed gender group looking to spice it up, glow sticks and darkened glow rooms bring an extra element to any party, but even more so an arcade party.  Look for party details such as glow rooms at your nearest amusement center.  Many offer this perk as a dedicated part of the festivities with a host to help manage the fun while the lights are off and accessories and guests glowing.

Think Small 

It is easy to think that arcade parties are only for kids of a certain age or older.  But this isn’t true.  Many arcades offer indoor and outdoor small child friendly games, rides and attractions.  Talk to a local amusement park about options for parties with a younger crowd.  There are many games both analog and virtual reality that are friendly for younger children.  This makes arcade games a great theme for birthday parties as there may be kids of all ages and such a theme provides entertainment, fun and even prizes for all.

Think Tall 

Don’t forget that the parents of the birthday boy or girl’s friends may want to join in the fun too.  Ask the park about rates to add on adults for games, rides, food and drinks (and if they provide adult beverages as well).  It is not an uncommon request and many parks ensure perks for adult chaperones at the birthday bash.