By  K.C. Blackwell

Recently, my oldest son celebrated his 4th birthday. Our entire family loves music and I wanted to incorporate this passion with his latest birthday extravaganza. I decided on a “Rock” themed birthday. I usually decide my kid’s birthday themes several months in advance and search constantly for anything relevant to include.

The invitations were simple. I found flame clipart and a rocker font on the web and printed them at home. We are fortunate to have a neighborhood clubhouse we can rent for a nominal fee and I always hold parties there. I decided the theme colors were orange, red, black and yellow. I did simple decorations of streamers and coordinating balloons. When the kids arrived I gave each of them a blow-up flame guitar, (Oriental Trading Company), and then led them to the craft area. I set up a large table with all kinds of markers and rock-n-roll stickers, (guitars, stars, musical instruments, etc.). They were able to decorate their very own “Backstage VIP Pass”. (I made these at home with construction paper, my printer and ribbon.) I also included a tattoo parlor complete with water spray bottles and a large assortment of temporary tattoos, (Oriental Trading Company).
The kids had a blast getting ready to rock. I did simple snack foods in another room. I printed up small description cards for each snack and named them after my favorite bands. I included small pictures of the various bands’ album covers. For instance, Pearl Jam Pretzels with a small photo of their “Ten” album underneath.

I found an incredible kid’s DJ and hired them for one hour. When they arrived I let all the kids file downstairs. They played all kinds of music, taught dance steps and even gave out rockin’ inflatables to all the kids. Everyone had a blast! When the DJ’s finished, I brought out a guitar shaped cake for my son. I was fortunate that Wilton actually makes a guitar shaped baking pan. For all the other kids, I gave them each a cupcake decorated with a musical note.

As the kids were leaving, I gave them each a black goody back, decorated with foam red, yellow, and orange stars and the words “ROCK ON”. The bags contained Pop Rocks candy, star shaped sunglasses, rock-n-roll stickers and tattoos. Very simple. The party was a great success. Everyone had so much fun, and even the adults are still talking about it. Now….what to do for his 5th!

Great party idea, K.C! Let us know what you think!