Do you have a little sports fanatic in your family? Whether you want a baseball party, football party, basketball party or soccer party, we’ve got great sports birthday party ideas for you. From invitations to finger foods (peanuts and cracker jacks, anyone?), our sports birthday tips would make even Tiger Woods proud.

Best For…

Kids aged five to 12 will have loads of fun with this sports birthday party. Girls and boys will have equal amounts of fun, so be sure to invite all of your friends!

Party Planning

For peace of mind, begin planning your sports bash six to eight weeks in advance. This will allow you time to gather all the supplies that you need, including sports party 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.

Simple baseball, soccer, basketball or football invitations can be made from any color construction paper and sports-themed stickers or foam stick-ons. Another option is to cut cards into the shape of soccer balls or footballs and write your party information on the opposite side. Alternatively, you can purchase personalized or pre-printed sports birthday party 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, and read the paragraphs below for information on selecting sports party supplies, favors, and more.

What Do I Need for the Party?

If you plan to use paper tableware and sports 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.

When selecting baseball, football, basketball, or soccer decorations and partyware for your sports party, choose colors specific to your theme (e.g. orange and black for basketball, white and red for baseball, etc.), or just go with primary colors for a basic sports party. For added impact, select plates, cups and napkins featuring a sports pattern and supplement with solid-colored accessories.

As you shop for party supplies, don't forget to purchase sports party favors for your guests. Favors are a great way to help your guests remember your party and thank them for attending. Select theme-complimentary items, such as sports stickers, mini sports ball toys, sports poppers, headbands and assorted candies. Put items into clear or printed cellophane bags, and tie the bags closed with black chenille stems.