Best for:

Dinosaurs are big with children of all ages, but especially those ages four through 11. What child doesn’t enjoy a hearty roar, a teeth-clashing chomp, and the magic and mystery of these prehistoric creatures? Your little archeologists and paleontologists will wonder over the marvels they will dig up during this fun get-together.

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.

Make dinosaur egg invitations by simply writing the party information on a slip of paper, rolling it up, and placing it inside a plastic egg. Another idea is to draw a dinosaur head with sharp teeth as the card invitation. Got a printer? Try our Dinosaur Printables section. Or, if you’re short on time, you can purchase pre-printed or personalized dinosaur-themed 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 your guests 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 You’ll Need

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. For this party, earth-tones are best. Shades such as tan, brown, and gray will bring out the archeologist in your little guests.

For goodie bags, purchase small toy dinosaurs, plastic bugs, digging tools, dinosaur stickers, rock candy, and other assorted candies. Place all your dinosaur party favors inside clear or printed cellophane bags and tie them with brown chenille stems. You can also make fossil bags using brown lunch bags, brown paint, and foam stamps.