Congratulations! Your baby is a year old. Now it’s time to celebrate with a fabulous first birthday party... and we’re here to help! From planning the party and creating invitations to creative foods, crafts, and cake ideas for the big day, our party ideas will help you create first birthday memories you'll keep for a lifetime.

Best For…

Everyone loves babies, and all kids love parties, so any age will enjoy this fun birthday get-together. While your one-year-old won’t remember the party, your guests will! Be sure to document the occasion with photos or a video camera.

Party Planning

For peace of mind, begin planning your bash six to eight weeks in advance. This will allow you time to gather all the supplies that you need, including decorations, gifts, and menu items. Planning ahead also gives your guests time to RSVP and make travel plans, if needed. Don't panic if you find yourself short on time; you can still plan a great party! Planning ahead simply reduces the risk of conflicts with guests' plans and may increase your party’s attendance.

Homemade invitations for this fun event can be as simple as folded construction paper cut into the shape of a balloon. Draw the number “one” in the center of the balloon, and decorate the card with glitter or foil stickers. If you're feeling even more creative, cutting the cards into the shape of the number “one” works great, too. Or, if you’re short on time, you can purchase pre-printed or personalized first birthday invitations online. We recommend mailing your invitations three to four weeks prior to the party—any sooner and your guests may forget, any later and they may already have plans.

To simplify the rest of the party planning process, check out our Party Planning Timeline, take a look at our When & Where to Have the Party page, and read the paragraphs below for information on selecting decorations, supplies, activities, and more for your child's party.

What Do I Need for the Party?

If you plan to use paper tableware and themed party supplies, our Suggested Party Supply List may be quite helpful. Please note that you may not need everything on the list; it is intended only as a guide.

As you shop for party supplies, don't forget to purchase party favors for your guests. Favors are a great way to help your guests remember your party and thank them for attending. For your child's first birthday party, make a statement by placing one of everything into the favor bags. Choose stickers, assorted candies, erasers, and other simple party toys. If you plan to send party favors home with very young guests, make sure you give out only child-safe favor items, such as Chubbie Vehicles, which are safe for 12-month-olds. Place the party favors you select in clear cellophane bags, and decorate each with #1 and single balloon stickers; or, use first birthday-themed favor bags. Tie the bags closed with blue ribbon for boys or pink ribbon for girls.