Turning eighteen is undoubtedly the most significant and exciting of all the milestone birthdays. Reaching this magic figure means you’re legally allowed to drink alcohol in a pub, open a current account, vote, get married and apply for a passport. In short, your 18th birthday is a rite of passage into adulthood.
But whether you’re organising your own 18th birthday bash or your child’s, no doubt you’re looking for some inspiration.
If so, you’ve come to the right place as we’ve put together a whole host of fabulously fun 18th birthday party ideas to help you mark this very special occasion.
So, let’s celebrate!
Décor
No matter how large or small, an eighteenth birthday party needs some themed decorations to add to the fun atmosphere. We suggest:
- Donut boards with 18th decorations
- Printed 18th birthday balloons
- Balloon arch
- 18th Birthday banner
- 18th Cake topper
- Toothpick fireworks to jazz up food and drinks
Party ideas
Night club or bar
Now you can legally drink alcohol, a night club or bar offers an opportunity to hit the dance floor with your mates and enjoy some great music. It’s a good idea to pre-book a table and to take ID with you, plus don’t forget that everyone needs to be aged 18+. Make the occasion even more special by hiring a limousine to transport you and your guests to and from the venue.
Mobile roller disco party
Technically, you’re an adult at eighteen but that doesn’t stop you from having fun! So, embrace your inner child and plan a roller disco party. There are several companies who specialise in setting up mobile roller-skating rinks at a venue of your choice, complete with disco lights and a DJ to ensure the party goes with a swing.
Karaoke night
A karaoke party offers endless fun whether you’re a great singer or not! If you are holding the party at home, you’ll simply need to download a karaoke app and run it on your laptop. However, it will really get the party going if you stream the lyrics and backgrounds on your TV – some apps have a smart TV option included. Choosing a theme, such as Disney or 80s bands for example, can add to the fun too, especially if you ask guests to dress up. Buffet style food works well for this type of party, but you could always do burgers or fish and chips in take-out boxes. And as karaoke is thirsty work, make sure there are plenty of soft drinks available as well as alcohol.
Movie night
Hold this either inside or out depending on the time of year. You’ll need to hire a projector and screen and have a laptop or DVD player to run your movies. Choose a film that will appeal to a wide range of tastes and provide plenty of comfy seating and cushions. If you’re holding the party in your garden, add fairy lights and balloons to create a party atmosphere. With the nights drawing in, you might want to bring the party indoors, or hire a marquee with outdoor heaters if you have the space. Don’t forget the snacks – popcorn, marshmallows, crisps and similar foods are a good choice, accompanied by a mix of alcoholic and soft drinks.
Ten-pin bowling party
A great all-in-one option for your party with bowling and food on offer at most venues. Mainland UK venues usually have a bar too, although this is less common in Ireland. Take your own cake along and you have the perfect recipe for a fun party.
Luxury picnic
This one is best suited to the warmer months of the year, although there’s nothing to stop you having an indoor picnic when the weather’s cold. You could make your own food, accompanied by prosecco or champagne, or use one of several companies who specialise in creating luxury picnics. Some supply the food only, while others set everything up and provide picnic blankets, cushions and even pallet tables. Locations can include castles, hotels, parks, local beauty spots or your garden.
Dinner party and magician
A formal dinner party with your friends or family is a sophisticated option that reflects your newly adult status. Make the dress code formal and set the table with candles and flowers to make it an extra-special occasion. If the budget allows, hiring a magician to entertain guests, either between courses or after the meal, will ensure your 18th birthday is truly magical, and if you’re based in Ireland, you can book a magician directly through our website: https://partywizz.com/search/private-parties
Spa day
Book a spa day with a group of friends, or your mum and sister, and enjoy being pampered. Don’t forget to take some pictures of everyone in their towelling robes and face masks!
Surprise event
Buy tickets for your teen’s favourite band, or sporting event, and don’t forget to check that at least one of their mates is free to accompany them on the big day.
Virtual reality party
Virtual reality is a fully immersive experience which allows players to experience the thrill of everything from Formula One racing to escape rooms. Virtual laser tag and escape rooms can be played together as a team, while car racing allows you to compete against your mates to gain a place on the podium. Some virtual reality centres let you bring your own food, while others have food and drink packages available as add-ons.
Hot air balloon flight
Definitely not the cheapest option but floating through the sky in a hot air balloon is a breath-taking experience that’s guaranteed to make your 18th birthday party unforgettable. The maximum number of people who can travel in the basket varies from two to sixteen depending on who you book with. Rides usually last about an hour and are often followed by a celebratory glass of champagne or prosecco once you’re back on the ground.
Camping trip
A camping trip is a fun and affordable way to celebrate an 18th birthday. Whether you stay at a camping site, in the countryside, or even in your own back garden, sitting around a campfire toasting marshmallows with your mates is a magical way to celebrate. Plan and organise some fun activities too, such as a scavenger hunt, outdoor games or telling ghost stories around the fire as the light fades.
Glamping trip
An alternative to camping if you fancy a few more home comforts.
Amusement Park
Visiting an amusement park with family or friends is a great way to create lasting memories of your 18thbirthday. Every park is different, but they are all are designed to give maximum fun. So, forget that you’re now officially an adult, let your hair down, hit the rollercoaster and scream yourself silly!
Birthday city break
If the budget will stretch to it, a weekend city break with friends is a fun way to celebrate. See the sights, hit the shops and check out the local nightlife. Alternatively, if you’re going away with family members, consider booking a posh restaurant – some restaurants can supply a birthday cake, but if not, most are happy for you to bring your own.
We hope you’ve found this post helpful, and that it’s inspired you to plan a fun 18th birthday party, either for yourself or someone else. Being a fully-fledged adult isn’t always fun, so make sure you enjoy your 18thbirthday party to the max before the rest of life’s responsibilities catch up with you!
That’s a Wrap
At PartyWizz we help busy party organisers easily book the best entertainment and service providers for their events. We cater to kids’ parties, weddings, corporate events and private parties.
We pride ourselves in working with the best entertainers and party services in each category: magicians, face painters, photo booths and more.
