Theme

• Choose a theme for the birthday celebration. Consider the interests of the guest of honor. Party themes for kids often include their favorite characters from movies, books or television shows. Themes for adults may center around a favorite hobby, color, activity or profession. Incorporate the theme throughout the party, including the invitations, decorations, food and entertainment.
  
  

Location

• Select a location for the birthday celebration. A birthday party at a private residence is a cost-effective choice, but the guest list may be limited due to the size. Outdoor venues such as parks, zoos or recreation areas offer larger spaces and built-in entertainment. Indoor party locations may include a party room at a restaurant or kids' entertainment facility, a banquet hall or a sporting facility. Consider the cost, the number of guests, the convenience for your guests and the amenities included when choosing the location for the birthday party. Call in advance to secure the party venue for your desired date and time.
  
  

Guest List

• Create a guest list for the birthday celebration. You may have to limit the size of your guest list if you choose a smaller venue. Likewise, if you have a long guest list that cannot be cut, choose a larger venue. Send the invitations at least two to three weeks in advance so guests can plan accordingly. Ask guests to RSVP so you can finalize the party plans.
  
  

Decorations

• Choose decorations that fit the theme of the party. Consider the venue when planning the decorations. An outdoor party often doesn't need a lot of decoration. Wind and limited hanging spots make it difficult to use many decorations. Purchase commercially produced party decorations or make your own custom decorations.
  
  

Food

• Create a menu for the birthday celebration based on the time of the event. Serve a meal for parties that fall during the lunch or dinner hours. Morning or afternoon parties may only need a few snacks to serve the guests. Choose foods that relate to the party theme, or serve the favorite foods of the honoree. Serve a cake, cookies or cupcakes decorated for the theme.
  
  

Favors

• Decide if you will hand out favors to the party guests. Choose from a variety of favor ideas, including favor bags filled with candy, small toys related to the theme, personalized cookies or cupcakes, a craft kit that can be assembled at home, or a small gift certificate to a local business.
  
  

Activities

• Plan activities that relate to the birthday party theme. Adapt common games to fit the theme of the party. For example, "Pin the Tail on the Donkey" can be changed to "Pin the Tiara on the Princess" or "Pin the Tool Belt on the Handyman." Choose games that are easy to play in the location of the party. Large group games that involve running won't work if the party is held in a tiny house with a small backyard. Other activities for a birthday celebration include crafts, cookie or cupcake decorating, sports, treasure hunts, pinatas and karaoke.