15 Classic Birthday Party Games That Never Get Old

Birthdays are a joyous occasion, especially for kids. Every birthday marks a major milestone and is hence worth celebrating. For kids, birthday parties are the best way to honor them, show them love and let them relax. It is a time they can have fun and interact with friends in a loving, happy environment. Birthday parties are not only fun for the person whose birthday it is but also for everybody attending the bash, as they mark the passing of time and are generally quite enjoyable to partake in.

One of the best ways to spice up a birthday party, in addition to cakes and presents, is to play party games. Party games are classic, collaborative and fun for kids who like challenges. This list of classic party games that never get old aims to give you inspiration for the next birthday party you throw.

Pin the Tail on the Donkey 

A donkey poster or picture is mounted on a wall. Every child is then blindfolded and spun around. They are given a pinned tail. Blindfolded, they must attempt to put the tail on the appropriate spot in the donkey poster. Whoever gets closest, wins!

It doesn’t have to be a donkey. It could be any animal the child likes- such as a dog, cat or even an elephant! The point is to have fun.

Pass the Parcel

This is another classic. A parcel containing a good gift is wrapped properly. The kids sit in a circle and pass the parcel around while music is played. When the music stops, the kid holding the parcel is considered out. This continues until only one child remains- who wins the parcel’s prize!

This game is quite simple, involves some musical fun and kids will love it!

Scavenger Hunt

A scavenger hunt consists of two teams. Each team is given a list of common items or items placed throughout the location, along with a camera. Within the allotted time, they must tick off as many items as possible, taking pictures as proof. The team that gets the most wins.

This game involves observation, deduction and running around. It is the perfect blend of fun and knowledge!

Simon Says

In this game, an adult plays the role of ‘Simon’. This ‘Simon’ gives instructions starting with “Simon says…” such as “Simon says raise your hands'', Then kids must raise their hands. Similarly, they should follow every instruction accurately. At some point, to trick the kids, the command might omit the “Simon says” or use another name. 

Whoever still does it is out, The last remaining player is the winner!

Lemon and Spoon Race

This game, commonly seen on sports days at schools, is also a fun game that encourages physical activity and friendly competition. If the party is outdoors, this game is perfect. 

The children are all given spoons and a lemon. They must walk from the start to the finish line, holding the end of their spoon between their teeth and balancing the lemon on the end. Whoever reaches the end first without dropping the lemon wins the race.

Musical Chairs

In the beginning of the game, there are as many chairs as there are children. Chairs are assembled in a circle facing outwards. Each child sits in a chair. When the music plays, one chair is removed. 

When the music stops, each child sits in a chair. Whichever child is left standing gets out. Each round, one chair less remains, until there are only two kids and one chair. You should make sure the music you play is lively and popular with kids!

Tray Memory Game

A tray is filled with various recognizable items. The tray is kept out for a limited time, like a minute. Once it is removed, each child is given a pen and paper. They must write down as many items as they remember. Whoever gets the most correct wins!

Remember- these are kids so spellings shouldn’t be judged. Instead, this is a test of memory.

Sleeping Lions

An adult is the hunter. Each child lies on the floor, pretending to be a sleeping lion. The hunter moves among the lions, trying to wake them by making them laugh or move. The kids that move are out. The one that remains by the end is the winner.

Not only is this perfect for quelling some chaotic noise at a party, but it is also a fun game that allows kids to rest and relax!

Musical Statues

This is another fun game involving music because there is truly no better combination than some good beats and a simple game for a party!

When the music plays, kids dance. But when the music stops, they must pause and become still on the spot. Somebody then tries to distract them. The kids that move are out. The music resumes. This process repeats until one kid- the winner, is left standing by the end.

Tug of War

Two teams, a rope and a show of strength- tug of war is a perfect game for kids who love friendly competition and getting physical. 

Children are divided into two teams. Each team stands on opposite sides and at an equal distance from a marked spot, holding a sturdy long rope split about halfway. When the whistle is blown, each team must tug. The team that tugs the rope towards their side successfully wins the game!

Three Legged Race

This fun game promotes coordination, teamwork and a friendly spirit! It requires kids to be divided into pairs.

Then, the opposite legs of the pair are tied together. The pairs must make their way across a race line from start to finish. Whichever pair does so fastest, preferably without falling or flailing, wins! This is a fun game that involves physical activity!

Piñata Game

One way to add some fun to your party is by incorporating a classic piñata game! It should be filled with goodies and treats,

The colorful piñata, filled with candy and small toys, is hung from a high spot. Each child is blindfolded and spun gently to disorient them. Then you can let them take turns swinging a stick at the piñata. Once it breaks open, every child dives in to collect the goodies!

Cupcake Decoration

For kids who have a sweet tooth and are interested in art or cooking, the cupcake decoration game will be a hit!

Set up a decorating station with plain cupcakes. You can have two or three different flavors and allow kids to choose their favorite, then you can let them decorate the cupcake with frostings, icing, sprinkles and more! Take a picture of the completed cupcake and then the kid can eat it.

Glass Knockdown

Usually featuring in carnivals or fairs, this game is a childhood classic that can be a fun party game! It requires plastic or paper cups and a table.

The cups are arranged in a pyramid or row. Each child is given a ball and a limited number of throws. Aiming the ball at the glasses, they attempt to knock them down. Whoever gets the most wins.

Obstacle Course

This is another outdoor party game that children will love and have a lot of fun playing with their friends. This is a great way to combine physical activity with friendly competition! You can make a fun and challenging obstacle course with just cones, hoops, and tunnels. Then, kids race through the obstacles, while being timed. Whoever is the fastest wins. 

Ultimately, birthday games for kids should be chosen with careful consideration of the child's interests and preferences. Whether you select from classic games or new ideas, the most important aspect is to ensure that the games are engaging and enjoyable for the child and their guests. This thoughtful approach not only guarantees fun but also strengthens the bond between the host and the children.

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