Theme Party

• Rent out a local clubhouse and throw a theme party. A theme party can suit any age --- from a circus party for small children to a football gathering for dad or a tropical escape for mom. You could also rent a room in the the birthday person's favorite restaurant or recruit someone on the guest list with a large backyard and throw the party there. Reflect the theme in decoration, dress and food. For example, you could ask in your invitation that everyone wear tropical attire to the party. Roast a pig and serve it with pineapple slices and tropical fruit drinks. For entertainment, book fire dancers or a reggae band. For a football party, make everyone wear a team jersey, and for a circus party, ask the kids to arrive in animal costumes.
  
  

Children

• Most kids like to run around and have fun, so plan a party allowing them that opportunity. Amusement parks and laser tag facilities frequently offer birthday packages that can include meals for guests, beverages, a cake and unlimited rides or games of laser tag. You might book an afternoon at the local roller skating rink or bowling alley, inviting all the child's friends for fun and pizza. These facilities frequently host large numbers of guests, and staff can likely help you with the logistics of planning your large birthday party.
  
  

Adults

• Throw a lunch, brunch or dinner party, either at the birthday person's favorite restaurant or at home. If nobody wants to cook for a large number of people, get the party catered. Serve an elegant meal along with some bottles of wine or whatever else she likes to drink. Make it special by hiring a DJ or planning a fun event, such as breaking a pinata full of prizes. If the birthday person is a more casual person, set up a table with chicken wings, nachos and seven-layer dip. If the party falls during a warm month, throw a poolside bash at a local hotel. Many hotels have restaurants that will cater the event for you. If not, you can most likely order from an off-site vendor. If you're planning a party for a big golf fan, consider booking a golf course clubhouse. The birthday boy can golf a round with his buddies and eat delicious food afterward surrounded by his friends and family.
  
  

Considerations

• Planning is key when organizing any big event. First, compile a guest list. Then, set a date. Call around to different locations to check pricing for the number of guests you expect and also see what they offer. Book your location before sending out invitations so you can be sure of the time, place and date. Send out invitations at least one month in advance so people have time to include the party in their schedules. If desired, include an RSVP so you know how many guests to expect.