Plan a Birthday Bash!

Birthday parties happen all year, but the better weather makes us a little more eager to throw one.

So we’ve gathered some resources to help you with your little one’s next annual shindig. Parties are fun to have at home, but if you want to avoid the clean-up, here’s a list of area venues and what they offer.

11th Ave. Ballet. Birthday boy or girl can invite seven other “Luckiest Guests in the Land” for dancing and celebration, at the studio or your own home.

Cost: $180 for 2 hours, 1-3:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Packages designed for up to eight children. A $50 nonrefundable deposit is required; full balance due one week before party. Food, favors and other products are provided by the host family.

Custom-fit parties with a wide variety of theme options, spanning ballet classics, fairy tales, around the world, fables and stories, and holiday and seasonal selections. Parties include mini ballet class, storytelling, and dance lessons. Costumes, props, and music bring each theme to life.
The birthday boy or girl takes home a tiara, crown or pirate hat.

Extras available: autographed pointe shoes, $25; additional children (up to 12) at $10 each; 30 minutes extra time, $50; art projects, $5 each; live accompanist, $65 (for 45 minutes).

Contact Noël: 509-457-6791. 1014 S. 11th Ave., Yakima.

Allied Arts/ArtsVan

Have the ArtsVan come to you.

Basic package: $150 for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, for up to 12 kids. Teaching artist brings the ArtsVan, a mobile arts classroom to your location. Choose up to two projects. Party package is designed to be custom-made for various ages and ideas. Projects can be split up by age, gender and themes.

Allied Arts of Yakima Valley, 5000 W. Lincoln Ave., Yakima; 509-966-0930. alliedartsyakima.org

Children’s Activity Museum in Ellensburg. Party room and museum play. Basic party package includes access to museum for 90 minutes, and “Birthday Room” (30 minutes additional prep time allowed).

$50 for members, $65 for nonmembers for up to 15 children and four adults. $3 extra per additional child. Bring your own food and food supplies. 118 E. Fourth Ave., Ellensburg. 509-925-6789. childrensactivitymuseum.org

Flying Hat Ranch. Pony parties! Two ponies for one hour for $125; $50 more for each additional 30 minutes. 1090 Cabin Lane, Yakima. Call 509-480-0017 for scheduling, or 509-698-4426 for questions. flyinghatranch.bravehost.com

Franklin Pool. Outdoor pool with slide, grassy area and tables with large umbrellas. Opens for the summer in June. 2101 Tieton Drive, Yakima. 509-575-6035. ci.yakima.wa.us

Kids’ Castle. Private party rooms, games & indoor play structure; pool available Saturdays in the summer.

Basic party package: Monday-Friday reservation for up to 10 children; $65, $6.50 for each additional child. Saturday & Sunday; $90, $9 for each additional child. Includes 1½ to 2 hours of play, invitations, tables, tablecloth and chairs, and party host.

Super Party Room package: Weekdays for up to 15 children; $100, $8 per additional child. Saturday and Sunday, up to 15 children; $135, $11 per additional child.
Extra party options available: Baskin Robbins ice cream cakes; soda; extra play time.

$25 of fee is nonrefundable if reservation is canceled for Circus, Castle or Jungle Room, and $50 of fee is nonrefundable if reservation is canceled for the Super Party Room. Inside Gymnastics Plus, 2121 W. Lincoln Ave., Yakima. 509-453-8126.

Lions Pool. Party at a pool — inside! Rentals are available during non-program times.

Another option is to host a birthday party during recreational swims. Renters must call the Wednesday before an event to reserve during recreation swims. General admission price: $2 youth, $3.75 adults, $10 family (up to two adults, four children), seniors $2.25. Groups of 30 or more receive a 20 percent discount.

Fifth Avenue and Pine Street, Yakima. 509-575-6046. ci.yakima.wa.us

Meadowbrook Family Fun Center. A basic party package starts at $56 ($7 per child). Requires a minimum of eight children for 90 minutes in the party area, which includes balloons and other decorations. Each child receives 12 arcade tokens, two slices of pizza and a drink. Invitations are included in price. A $10 deposit is required, and full payment is due two days after reservation.

In the spring, “basic plus” party package is available, which includes everything in the basic package plus three hours of unlimited bumper boats and miniature golf. Package starts at $120 ($15 per child, minimum eight children).

Meadowbrook has discounted add-ons, including go-karts, more time in the party room and extra food and balloons. If you’d rather bring your own balloons, the staff will blow them up for $0.50 each.

7200 W. Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima. 509-966-3836. yakimafamilyfun.com

Monkey Dooz. Glamour and princess parties! Other options include makeup, manicure and hair and Best Friend parties.

Glamour Party: $35 per girl (minimum four girls); includes dress-up, hairstyle, makeup, nail polish and drink. Princess Party: $30 per girl (minimum four girls); includes hairstyle, makeup, nail polish and drink. Best Friend Party: $25 per girl (minimum 2 girls); includes hairstyle, makeup and drink, or hairstyle, nail polish and drink.

Glamour and Princess parties require $50 deposit one week before party, and 20 percent gratuity will be added to party total. Best Friend Party requires $25 deposit one week before party, and 20 percent gratuity will be added to party total.

A craft table is set up during all parties to let girls make bracelets or necklaces while they wait to be styled.

4904 Tieton Drive, Yakima. 509-853-4247. monkeydooz.net

The Museum Soda Fountain. Old-fashioned sodas, ice cream — and atmosphere.
Private facility rental available before and after business hours. Call for hours, as they change throughout the course of the year.
2105 Tieton Drive, Yakima. 509-457-9810. yakimavalleymuseum.org

Nob Hill Lanes. Birthday packages available 12:30-2:30 p.m. & 3-5 p.m. Saturdays; 12-2 p.m. & 2:30-4:30 p.m. Sundays. $35 per lane for two hours, which includes shoes and a pitcher of pop per lane. Birthday package must be paid in full before party at bowling alley.

3807 W. Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima. 509-966-1070.

Northern Pacific Railway Museum. Caboose birthday parties, individually scheduled. $100 minimum. Contact Mary at 509-877-3894 for more info and scheduling. 10 Asotin Ave., Toppenish. nprymusuem.org

Selah Gym Kids. Birthday parties include 45 minutes in the gym and another 45 minutes in the party room for food and gifts. Each child receives a balloon. Party director and assistant included.

$110 for up to 10 kids. $10 for each additional child. Saturdays at 12, 2 or 4 p.m. 709 N. Park Centre, Selah. 509-698-5437. selahgymkids.com

Selah’s J. Francis Pool. This outdoor pool in Selah is available Saturday mornings and evenings during summer. 214 S. Third St., Selah. 509-698-7306.

Skateland Fun Center. Can you “shoot the duck” and sing Happy Birthday at the same time?

Standard package does not require reservations, and regular admission fees apply per person. Reservations required for Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Birthday group gets photographed and the birthday child’s name and age are announced.

Deluxe package: up to 10 skaters. Friday & Saturday reservations: $77.50 (each additional skater is $7.50); Saturday and Sunday afternoons, Wednesday evenings: $72.50 (each additional skater is $7). Includes admission, regular skates, 20 minutes in party area, cupcake, ice cream sandwich and Pepsi for each guest and coupons and discounts.

No outside food or drink allowed. Cash only. Called for private birthday party package info.

2506 Old Town Road, Union Gap. 509-575-6446.

The Cake Decorator Shoppe. Cake and candy-making supplies, classes and parties.

Basic party package: $150 for two hours. Includes instructor time, balloons (three color choices), beverage (2-liter soda, juice, lemonade or water), to-go boxes, and aprons for in-class use. Four themes: Cake Party for six students, and Cupcake Party, Cake Pop Party, and Paper Doll Cookies for eight students each.

Additional students (up to 12-15) for $15-$25. Outside food accepted; allow for extra time. 5679 Summitvew Ave., Yakima. 509-494-0975.

Yakima Family YMCA. Rent the indoor pool and a party room at the YMCA in downtown Yakima.

Kids can party for two hours: one hour in the party room and one hour for an activity. Activity options: pool, bounce house or fun room (with games). Basic: $100 members, $120 nonmembers. Includes invitations, setup and white tablecloths. Two hours.

Premium: $140 members, $160 nonmembers. Includes basic party package items plus decorative birthday tablecloths, party coordinator and plates, cups and silverware.

Add-on options: Pool blow up slide for $30; “Lights OUT! Music ON!” pool party for $25; extra bounce house time for $35; two bounce houses for $35.

Swimming accommodates up to 50 people. Youth room includes shuffleboard, darts, pool table, video games and basketball hoops.

$50 nonrefundable fee required to reserve (price goes toward total party cost). Parties available on Saturdays and Sundays only. 5 N. Naches Ave., Yakima. 509-248-1202. yakimaymca.org

Yakima Ice Rink. Public or private parties available. Public parties occur during public sessions. $10 per child, includes three hours of skating, skate rental, two large pizzas and two liters of soda. Public skate sessions: 7-10 p.m. Fridays, 5-8 p.m. Saturdays. Public session open October through March, but call for specific public session season dates.

Private: $125 per hour, includes exclusive use of ice rink. $1 skate rental per pair. Concession stand open for purchasing food, but renters can bring in outside food. 1700 E. Beech St., Yakima. 509-469-0597. yakimaicerink.com

Yakima Speedway. Bring your party goers to watch the race cars. Call for more information. 1600 Pacific Ave., Yakima. 509-248-0647. yakimaspeedway.us

Yakima Valley BMX & Indoor Track. Indoor and outdoor tracks available for young partiers on the move! 1000 Ahtanum Road, Union Gap. 509-833-4293. genesbmx.com/YakimaBMX.html

Yakima Valley Trolleys. Charter a nostalgic trolley ride through Yakima. Streetcars available for $110 per hour.
Third Avenue and Pine Street, Yakima. 509-249-5962. yakimavalleytrolleys.org

 •Resources•
Whether your birthday party is at home or not, here is a list of places where you can find all the frills.

A-1 Jumpers
Inflatable jumpers.
Track 29, 1 W. Yakima Ave., Yakima. 509-853-2980.

Balloons By Design
Designer balloon bouquets and character rentals. Clown party option. 509-575-8698 or  509-945-0987.

The Cake Decorator’s Shoppe
Cake and candy-making supplies and classes.
5679 Summitvew Ave., Yakima. 509-494-0975.

Fiesta Foods
Piñatas and cakes.
1008 E. Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima. 509-928-2274.

Free Cakes for Kids
Contact: Tara, 509-969-1970. yakimafreecakesforkids.webs.com.

It’s a Blast
Superheroes, princesses and other character entertainment.
Yakima. 509-949-0436.

J & S Jumpers
Inflatable jumpers; table and chair rentals.
Jumper prices start at $90 (or $75 Monday-Friday)
Sunnyside. 509-391-5761. jandsjumpers.com

Jumpers Inc.
Inflatable jumpers.
201 S. Third Ave., Yakima. 509-469-5867. jumpersinc.com

Just Ask Rental
Helium, cotton candy, dunk tanks and more.
1722 Morgan Road, Sunnyside. 509-837-3737. sunnysidejar.com

La Bodega Yakimex
Piñatas.
511 N. First St., Yakima. 509-469-6194.

Miles of Smiles
Tambow the Clown.
Tammy Danforth: 509-930-4527. clowntoday.com

Party Connection
Costumes, balloons, decorations and party rentals.
2807 W. Washington Ave., Yakima. 509-453-7877. party-connection.com

Party Palace
Decorations, balloons and rentals.
2011 W. Lincoln Ave., Yakima. 509-453-0048. partypalaceyakima.com

Ruben’s Tortilleria & Bakery
Piñatas, jumpers and cakes.
1518 S. First St., Yakima. 509-454-5357.

It’s all fun and games … until you hurt the piñata

By Scott Mayes

 

Kids seem to go through fascination phases – at least in my house. In the past 17 years, we’ve been through Bear in the Big Blue House, The Wiggles, Bob the Builder, Spider-Man, Batman, Fantastic Four, Star Wars, Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings.

That’s not an exhaustive list, but it’s a good start.

Anyhow, when your kids are in these stages, birthday parties are easy, right? You head off to the store and everything is a piece of cake – right down from the cake itself, to the gifts to the decorations.

I remember when my now 11-year-old was turning three. It was all Spider-Man all the time. If you’ve had a phase like that in your house, you even know the “spin a web” pose. In case you don’t, it’s palm up, index finger and pinky finger stretched out and the middle two fingers curled up in your palm. That’s what Spidey does when it’s time to spin that web.

The year was 2003 and we were ready. We had our gifts, our cake, our everything decked out in the Spidey theme. We even went to the next step with the Spider-Man piñata. Out went the invitations, the pizzas were ordered and we were ready to go.

Eight years into parenthood and two kids later, we had it licked. We were proud. We nailed the birthday party.

Not so fast.

 

As parents, sometimes you get humbled. (Maybe you’ve had this experience.) In our case, we failed to think about one little detail. And, it was in the piñata.

After pizza was eaten and three year olds (and some older kids) were running around hyped up on punch, it was time for the piñata. We got the youngest kid outside first with a baseball bat. A few swings of that bat and Micah’s face turned very quickly from a Spidey smile to a frown followed by real tears.

“Stop hitting Spider-Man,” he yelled as he cried and ran full speed to save his favorite Superhero. It didn’t crush the party, but it did give it a few moments of sadness – nothing that a few hugs and some cake couldn’t solve.

But I did learn a valuable lesson: Don’t have any activity at your party that involves physically destroying your kid’s favorite character. You can probably get away with it on the cake since there’s sugar involved. But, having figurines atop the cake that won’t be eaten is probably a good compromise.

 

Here are a few other tips than should get you on the right track for a great party:

• Save cake and presents for the end. Those two events can involve chaos. Saving them for the end will help keep order.

• Keep your party size manageable. Too many kids = crazy.

• Get an accurate head count. Use the tried and true RSVP method (and Evite works too), so you know how many to expect – and more importantly, how much food you’ll need.

• Plan ahead. Make sure you have enough adults on hand to manage the party. It’s also a good idea to charge the camera batteries and make sure the birthday boy or girl gets a good nap before the guests arrive.

• Set a budget. If you can’t afford the world’s greatest birthday party, don’t put that pressure on yourself. Live within your means. It will still be fantastic.

 

 

 

Let’s Party!

Let’s Party!

 

Birthday parties happen all year, but the better weather makes us a little more eager to throw one. So we’ve gathered some resources to help you with your little one’s next annual shindig.

 

•Parties are fun to have at home, but if you want to avoid the clean-up, here’s a list of area venues and what they offer.

 

11^th Ave. Ballet. Ballerina Birthday Party!

Birthday boy or girl can invite seven other “Luckiest Guests in the Land” for dancing and celebration, at the studio or your own home.

Cost: $180 for 2 hours, 1-3:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Packages designed for up to 8 children. A $50 non-refundable deposit is required; full balance due one week before party. Food, favors, and other products are provided by the host family.

Custom-fit parties with a wide variety of theme options, spanning ballet classics, fairy tales, around the world, fables and stories, and holiday and seasonal selections. Parties include mini ballet class, story telling, and dance lessons. Costumes, props, and music bring each theme to life.

The birthday boy or girl takes home a tiara, crown, or pirate hat.

Extras available: autographed pointe shoes, $25; additional children (up to 12) at $10 each; 30 minutes extra time, $50; art projects, $5 each; live accompanist, $65 (for 45 minutes).

Contact Noël: 509-457-6791. 1014 S. 11^th Ave., Yakima.

 

Allied Arts/ArtsVan. Have the ArtsVan come to you.

Basic package: $150 for 2 to 2/12 hours, for up to 12 kids. Teaching artist brings the ArtsVan, a mobile arts classroom to your location. Choose up to two projects. Party package is designed to be custom-made for various ages and ideas. Projects can be split up by age, gender and themes.

Allied Arts of Yakima Valley, 5000 W. Lincoln Ave., Yakima; 509-966-0930. alliedartsyakima.org

 

Children’s Activity Museum in Ellensburg. Party room and museum play. Basic party package includes access to museum for 90 minutes, and “Birthday Room” (30 minutes additional prep time allowed).

$50 for members, $65 for non-members for up to 15 children and 4 adults. $3 extra per additional child. Bring your own food and food supplies.
118 E. Fourth Ave., Ellensburg. 509-925-6789. childrensactivitymuseum.org

 

Flying Hat Ranch. Pony parties! Two ponies for 1 hour for $125; $50 more for each additional 30 minutes.

1090 Cabin Lane, Yakima. Call 509-480-0017 for scheduling, or 509-698-4426 for questions. flyinghatranch.bravehost.com

 

Franklin Pool. Outdoor pool with slide, grassy area and tables with large umbrellas. Opens for the summer in June. 2101 Tieton Drive, Yakima. 509-575-6035. ci.yakima.wa.us

 

Hands On Art. Party-goers can paint their own pottery!

Kids package includes two hours in the private party room, one pottery piece per child, full use of decorating supplies and staff help. Renters can bring in food, drinks, cake and other party supplies. Groups of 10-24 fit in the private party room; larger groups are welcome in the larger working area. $15 per child. A $25 non-refundable reservation deposit is required, which applies toward total price.

Mobile parties allow the art to come to you. $10 per person plus the cost of each bisque.

5603 Summitview Ave., Suite 100, Yakima. 509-966-4248. Hands-on-art.com

 

Kids’ Castle. Private party rooms, games & indoor play structure; pool available Saturdays in the summer.

Basic party package: Monday-Friday reservation for up to 10 children; $65, $6.50 for each additional child. Saturday & Sunday; $90, $9 for each additional child. Includes 1 ½ to 2 hours of play, helium balloons for each guest, a Mylar balloon for birthday child, invitations, tables and chairs, and party host.

Super Party Room package: Weekdays for up to 15 children; $100, $8 per additional child. Saturday & Sunday, up to 15 children; $135, $11 per additional child.

Extra party options available: Baskin Robbins ice cream cakes; soda; tableware; extra play time; special superhero or princess characters.

A $25 non-refundable reservation deposit is required for Circus, Castle, or Jungle Room, or $50 for the Super Party Room.
Inside Gymnastics Plus, 2121 W. Lincoln Ave., Yakima. 509-453-8126.

 

Lions Pool. Party at a pool – inside! Rentals are available during non-program times.

Another option is to host a birthday party during recreational swims. Renters must call the Wednesday before an event to reserve during recreation swims. General admission price: $2 youth, $3.75 adults, $10 family (up to 2 adults, 4 children), seniors $2.25. Groups of 30 or more receive a 20 percent discount.
Fifth Avenue and Pine Street, Yakima. 509-575-6046. ci.yakima.wa.us

 

Meadowbrook Family Fun Center. A basic party package starts at $56 ($7 per child). Requires a minimum of eight children for 90 minutes in the party area, which includes balloons and other decorations. Each child receives 12 arcade tokens, two slices of pizza and a drink. Invitations are included in price. A $10 deposit is required, and full payment is due two days after reservation.

Starting in April, the “basic plus” party package is available, which includes everything in the basic package plus three hours of unlimited bumper boats and miniature golf. Package starts at $120 ($15 per child, minimum 8 children).

Meadowbrook has discounted add-ons, including go-karts, more time in the party room and extra food and balloons. If you’d rather bring your own balloons, the staff will blow them up for $.50 each.
7200 W. Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima. 509-966-3836. yakimafamilyfun.com

 

Monkey Dooz. Glamour, princess and pirate parties … argh! Other options include make-up, manicure and hair parties. Minimum 4 girls.

Club spa: Girls, ages 8-13. Peppermint pedicure, Shea Butter manicure, Monkey Dooz Mud Mask and foot massage. Spa experience complete with robes, scented candles and leopard lounge chairs. Other options include “Pedicure Pit” party and “Fresh Face” facial.

Glenwood Square, 5110 Tieton Drive, Yakima. 509-853-4247. monkeydooz.net

 

The Museum Soda Fountain. Old-fashioned sodas, ice cream — and atmosphere.

Opens in March. Private facility rental available before and after business hours.

Call for hours, as they change throughout the course of the year.
2105 Tieton Drive, Yakima. 509-457-9810. yakimavalleymuseum.org

 

Nob Hill Lanes. Birthday packages available 12:30-2:30 p.m. & 3-5 p.m. Saturdays; 12-2 p.m. & 2:30-4:30 p.m. Sundays. $35 per lane for two hours, which includes shoes and a pitcher of pop per lane. Birthday package must be paid in full before party at bowling alley.
3807 W. Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima. 509-966-1070.

 

Selah Gym Kids. Birthday parties include 45 minutes in the gym and another 45 minutes in the party room for food and gifts. Each child receives a balloon. Party director and assistant included.

$110 for up to 10 kids. $10 for each additional child. Saturdays at 12, 2, or 4 p.m.
709 N. Park Centre, Selah. 509-698-5437. selahgymkids.com

 

Selah’s J. Francis Pool. This outdoor pool in Selah is available Saturday mornings and evenings during summer.

214 S. Third St., Selah. 509-698-7306.

 

Skateland Fun Center. Can you “shoot the duck” and sing Happy Birthday at the same time?

Standard package does not require reservations, and regular admission fees apply per person. Reservations required for Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Birthday group gets photographed and the birthday child’s name and age are announced.

Deluxe package: up to 10 skaters. Friday & Saturday reservations: $77.50 (each additional skater is $7.50); Saturday & Sunday afternoons, Wednesday evenings: $72.50 (each additional skater is $7). Includes admission, regular skates, 20 minutes in party area, cupcake, ice cream sandwich and Pepsi for each guest and coupons and discounts.

No outside food or drink allowed. Cash only.
2506 Old Town Road, Union Gap. 509-575-6446.

 

The Cake Decorator Shoppe. Cake and candy-making supplies, classes, and parties.

 Basic party package: $150 for 2 hours. Includes instructor time, balloons (three color choices), beverage (2-liter soda, juice, lemonade or water), to-go boxes, and aprons for in-class use.

 Four themes: Cake Party for 6 students, and Cupcake Party, Cake Pop Party, and Paper Doll Cookies for 8 students each.

 Additional students (up to 12-15) for $15-$25. Outside food accepted; allow for extra time.           
5679 Summitvew Ave., Yakima. 509-494-0975.

 

 

Yakima Bears Baseball. Batter up!

 Two options are available: the “Home Run” and the “MVP.”

 Home Run package includes 10 reserved bleacher back seats, 10 hot dogs, chips and small sodas, 10 souvenir vouchers, a visit from Boomer the Bear, personalized birthday cake, birthday child’s name on video board and one autographed card from Bears players. Party receives a 10 percent discount in the team store. $200

 MVP package includes everything in the Home Run package plus the opportunity for the birthday child to throw out the ceremonial first pitch. $225

 No outside food or drink. Additional attendees are $17.50 each. Adults seeking to pay for admission only get a bleacher back seat for $6.

 509-457-5151. yakimabears.com

 

Yakima Family YMCA. Rent the indoor pool and a party room at the YMCA in downtown Yakima.

Kids can party for 2 hours: 1 hour in the party room and 1 hour for an activity. Activity options: pool, bounce house or fun room (with games). Basic and premium packages available.

Basic: $100 members, $120 non-members. Includes invitations, setup and white tablecloths. Two hours.

Premium: $140 members, $160 non-members. Includes basic party package items plus decorative birthday tablecloths, party coordinator and plates, cups and silverware.

Add-on options: Pool blow up slide for $30; “Lights OUT! Music ON!” pool party for $25; extra bounce house time for $35; two bounce houses for $35.

Swimming accommodates up to 50 people. Youth room includes shuffleboard, darts, pool table, video games and basketball hoops.

$50 non-refundable fee required to reserve (price goes toward total party cost). Parties available on Saturdays and Sundays only.

5 N. Naches Ave., Yakima. 509-248-1202. yakimaymca.org

 

Yakima Ice Rink. Public or private parties available. Public parties occur during public sessions. $10 per child, includes three hours of skating, skate rental, two large pizzas and two liters of soda. Public skate sessions: 7-10 p.m. Fridays, 5-8 p.m. Saturdays. Public session open October through March, but call for specific public session season dates.

Private: $125 per hour, includes exclusive use of ice rink. $1 skate rental per pair. Concession stand open for purchasing food, but renters can bring in outside food.

1700 E. Beech St., Yakima. 509-469-0597. yakimaicerink.com

 

Yakima Speedway. Bring your partygoers to watch the race cars. Call for more information. 1600 Pacific Ave., Yakima. 509-248-0647. yakimaspeedway.us

 

Yakima Valley BMX & Indoor Track. Indoor and outdoor tracks available for young partiers on the move! 509-833-4293. genesbmx.com/YakimaBMX.html

 

Yakima Valley Trolleys. Charter a nostalgic trolley ride through Yakima. Streetcars available for $110 per hour.
Third Avenue and Pine Street, Yakima. 509-249-5962. yakimavalleytrolleys.org

 

•Whether your birthday party is at home or not, here are a list of places where you can find all the frills.

 

A-1 Jumpers
Inflatable jumpers.
Track 29, 1 W. Yakima Ave., Yakima. 509-853-2980.

 

Balloons By Design
Designer balloon bouquets and character rentals. Clown party option.
509-575-8698 or  509-945-0987.

 

The Cake Decorator’s Shoppe
Cake and candy-making supplies and classes.
5679 Summitvew Ave., Yakima. 509-494-0975.

 

Fiesta Foods
Piñatas and cakes.
1008 E. Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima. 509-928-2274.

 

Free Cakes for Kids

Contact: Tara, 509-969-1970. yakimafreecakesforkids.webs.com.

 

It’s a Blast
Superheroes, princesses and other character entertainment.
Yakima. 509-949-0436.

 

J & S Jumpers
Inflatable jumpers; table and chair rentals.
Jumper prices start at $90 (or $75 Monday-Friday)

Sunnyside. 509-391-5761. jandsjumpers.com

 

Jumpers, Inc.
Inflatable jumpers.
201 S. Third Ave., Yakima. 509-469-5867. jumpersinc.com

 

Just Ask Rental
Helium, cotton candy, dunk tanks and more.
1722 Morgan Road, Sunnyside. 509-837-3737. sunnysidejar.com

 

La Bodega Yakimex
Piñatas.
511 N 1st St, Yakima. 509-469-6194.

 

Miles of Smiles
Tambow the Clown.
Tammy Danforth: 509-930-4527. clowntoday.com/ and clowntoday.com/wp

 

Party Connection
Costumes, balloons, decorations and party rentals.
1104 Tieton Drive, Yakima. 509-453-7877. party-connection.com

 

Party Palace

Decorations, balloons and rentals.
2011 W. Lincoln Ave., Yakima. 509-453-0048. partypalaceyakima.com

 

Ruben’s Tortilleria & Bakery
Piñatas, jumpers and cakes.
1518 S. First St., Yakima. 509-454-5357.

 

•Want to choose a theme for your child’s birthday party? Here are some fun ideas:

 

Robin Hood

•            Games/Activities

•            Archery (the Nerf kind)

•            Ball toss with target

•            Escape from the Sherriff’s “prison” (your “shackles” are burlap sacks. Have a race!)

•            Food/Drink

•            Drink juice from a goblet

•            Roast meat off the bone (chicken legs)

•            Create a castle or sword cake

•            Costumes/Crafts

•            Sherwood Forest Hide-and-Seek (in the backyard). Set up obstacles for hiding.

Pirates

•            Games/Activities

•            Wooden leg race (three-legged race)

•            The Black Spot (a variation of Hot Potato – don’t get caught holding the Black Spot when the music’s over!)

•            Bob for Pieces of Eight (bob for apples).

•            Yo-ho-ho and a bottle of Kool-Aid (pass the bottle with music; when music stops, the winner holding the Kool-Aid gets to keep it)

•            Pin the Eye Patch on the Pirate

•            Food/Drink: Doubloons (chocolate coins). Treasure chest of treats. Pirate ship cake.

•            Costumes/crafts

•            Make pirate hats and eye patches. Arghh!!

Sock Hop

•            Games/Activities

•            Hula hoop contest

•            Limbo rock

•            Dance contest

•            Food/Drink

•            Old-fashioned soda

•            Milkshakes (gather ingredients, so each child can create his/her own!)

•            Burgers and fries

•            Costumes/Crafts

•            Poodle skirts & T-shirts and jeans

•            Kids can make skirts and style their T-shirts with paint and other items

 

Wizard of Oz

•            Games/Activities

•            Construct the “Yellow Brick Road” out of cardboard, and then draw in the bricks.

•            Play games on the road, such as hop scotch or foursquare.

•            Set up stations representing various characters (Lion, Scarecrow, Tin Man, the Witch), and let kids go on a scavenger hunt.

•            Food/Drink

•            Lollipop favors

•            Toto cookies/character cupcakes

•            Ruby red shoe cake

•            Costumes/Crafts

•            Flower crafts

•            Dress up as munchkins or your favorite character

Teddy Bear

•            Games/Activities

•            Each child can bring a favorite teddy bear for a contest. (We recommend giving out an award to each child, such as “Most Beautiful Bear,” “Cuddliest Bear,” and “Most Loved, a.k.a. Most Worn-Out Bear.”)

•            Play musical chairs – partner up with your teddy bear.

•            Food/Drink

•            Story time over tea and snacks

•            “Puddington” Bear cake

•            Costumes/Crafts

•            Pajama party! Bring along pillows and blankets

•            Set up craft stations to bedazzle those teddy bears

 

•We asked our Facebook friends, “Where’s the best place to host a kids’ birthday party in the area?”

Nancy D.: “In the summer time we love Kissell Park!”

 

Ann N.: “Low key family and a few friends in your family home. Bday parties for kids are getting a little out of hand.”

 

Sarah L.: “We have done summer bdays in the park or the backyard. We have also done Kids Castle and my son is having his at Meadowbrook this month, it all depends on what you want. At home its 100% on you. At a venue some of the pressure is off your shoulders.”

 

Monica E.F.: “I really like Kids Castle but now that my daughter is getting older I’m thinking about Skateland. I’ve been to parties there and it’s been nice.”

 

Shasta B-F.: “YMCA does great parties!”

 

•DIY your birthday party with easy-to-make and inexpensive crafts. These were inspired by projects on Pinterest:

 

Scrapbook Popcorn Holders

Directions: Just cut strips of desired width (the wider, the more popcorn it will hold) from any piece of scrapbook paper with some heft. Using pinking shears makes it more decorative. Tape or glue ends together, so that a baking cup can sit in the bottom easily, but without falling out. Fill with popcorn and add sprinkles!

 

Baking Cup Paper Lantern

Directions: Glue baking cups to the outside of a paper lantern. You can purchase frilly/unusual baking cups at The Cake Decorator’s Shoppe, Michael’s or Craft Warehouse. Make sure that cups are crowded, so they aren’t perfect circles. Add stick-on gems or streamers if desired. Light it up!

 

Juice Box

Directions: Wrap an empty juice box like a present with decorative paper. Glue construction paper arms and legs onto the box – even hands if you can. Draw a face and attach “googly” eyes. Add felt hair (pipe cleaners would be fun too). Ta-da! (Better than a pet rock, huh?)

 

Make a party hat!

Get a circle to trace—the diameter determines the height of the hat. Trace the circle onto a sheet of pretty craft paper or poster board that’s not too thick to bend. Draw a “pie piece” into it that’s about ¼ of the circle. Cut out the circle without the pie piece. Roll into a cone and adhere with glue or stapler. Decorate with pom poms, glitter, ribbon, artificial flowers, old jewelry or whatever you have on hand.

 

Let’s Have a Birthday Party!

By Scott Klepach Jr, with Jennifer Wolman

 

Most of us can remember how special birthday parties were when we were kids …  whether we had a small gathering of family and friends or an extravaganza full of party favors, costumes and games. But do throwing parties stress you out?

With all the baking, writing invitations, designing games and activities, cooking and providing food, drinks and cake, making party favors … and spending all that time and money, parents can get overwhelmed before they even begin.

So to get some tips on how to throw a stress-free, easy, inexpensive and FUN kids party, I talked with party-planner extraordinaire (and local mom) Jennifer Wolman.

The first question: What’s the party’s theme?

For girls, try a princess, pink poodle, pink diva, Webkinz, tropical, spa, tea, slumber-sleep-over, mermaid or High School Musical party theme.

Top boy themes include Thomas the Train, construction, bugs and nature, Spider-Man, Star Wars, pirates, Army, scavenger hunt, Survivor, Lego, space and science and cowboys.

 

Some more fun ideas from Jennifer:

 

Construction/Bob the Builder

Younger boy

• To Play:
• Pin the tool on the tool belt
• Build a “work zone” obstacle course, so partygoers can crawl through a box, walk on a 2X4 and jump over caution tape
• To Eat and Drink:
• Make a “Rocky Road” cake – include Oreos, pudding and gummy worms – and place it in a toy dump truck. For smaller kids, you can offer blocks or Legos.
• Prepare easy and fun “Cement Milkshakes,” made of Oreo cookie ice cream, milk and black food coloring

 

Tea Party

Younger girl

• To Play:
• Provide a box of dress-up clothes for the partygoers
• Focus on decorating the table, because this spot will be the center of attention. Put lollipop flowers in one pot for a centerpiece.
• To Eat and Drink:

Make tea sandwiches along with “Sun Tea punch.”

• Sun Tea Punch (recipe)

o   6-8 bags of decaf tea

o   ½ gallon on water

o   4 oranges, 3 juiced and 1 sliced

o   8 lemons, 7 juiced and 1 sliced

o   1/3 cup honey

o   ½ bunch of mint

o   Steep in the sun for 3 or more hours. Remove the tea bags and remaining ingredients and stir.

Party Favors:

• Use white bags and tie yarn with a nametag for party favors, which can include a cup and saucer and costume jewelry.

 

Star Wars

Older boy

• To Play:
• Use noodles to make light sabers and electric tape for handles.
• Start up the “Jedi Training Academy,” a training course where kids try to keep the balloon in the air on pop bubbles with their light sabers.
• Battle: use Nerf guns on droids and water pistols on clone troopers.
• Have Wookiee Cookies for dessert, made with peanut butter, cocoa and oatmeal; Darth Dogs for lunch, which are refrigerated breadstick rolls around hot dogs, baked; and serve Yoda Soda to drink, which is a combination of green sherbet, lemonade and Sprite

 

Spa Party

Older girl

• (Note: this theme can work on its own or be combined with a princess theme!)
• When girls arrive, have a cashier/check-in station ready. They will take off their shoes and be directed to a wading pool full of soapy water where they can soak their feet.
• Supply magazines for them to read as they soak their feet.
• Next, play Pass the Nail Polish game, which is a version of Hot Potato.
• Set up four stations. The Hair Station will let girls put glitter and hair clips in their hair. At the Manicure Station, girls will have their nails painted. At a third station, girls will be given hand cream, makeup with lip gloss, and shimmery face glitter. The fourth station, the necklace area, will let girls create and keep their own candy necklace.

 

Have a cupcake and eat it … in a cone! Ice cream cone cake …

 

Wolman notes that while cakes will always be a part of birthday party tradition, cupcakes have made a comeback. You can do a lot with these tasty morsels to fit with your theme. A princess stand can display cupcakes, or you can create your own “webbing” to hold Spider-Man cupcakes, for instance.

Or, try making your cakes unique. A princess cake is fun, but you can also try to create your own Rapunzel tower cake!

Other Party Ideas

• Face painting
• Duck, duck, goose. Wolman recommends tweaking this game to fit with the theme, so for a “Wall-E” party, this could be Wall-E, Wall-E, Eve.
• Hot potato. Or, if you’re thinking of a princess angle, make it The Poison Apple Game.
• Musical chairs, with theme song in the background. Make it Thomas the Train, a princess song, or race-car sounds!
• Scavenger hunt. Wolman suggests making these noncompetitive so everyone focuses on having fun, and not just spotlighting the winner.

 

Sidebar: Save some money

While it’s very easy to spend a lot of money on birthday parties, you can be frugal and still have fun. Emphasize connections and activities over materials such as new decorations. You can make use of what you have at home to make a scene, and you can always be crafty and make your invitations, food and decorations.

 

Jennifer Wolman is a stay-at-home mom of two children. She plans fun parties and volunteers in the community and in her kids’ schools. In her rare spare moments she loves to read, scrapbook, bake yummy goodies, dive into her Bible and go camping with her family.

Teddy Bear Picnic

Little ones will have lots of fun at this special picnic with their beary best friends. Whether planning a party or just looking for an excuse to head outdoors, you can make this theme as simple or elaborate as you like.

All that’s needed to start the fun is a blanket on the lawn (or living room floor). Invite the children to bring their fuzzy friends to lunch.

With just a little extra effort, a teddy bear picnic becomes a sweet birthday party for tots. Just remember to keep it simple: Young children are easily overwhelmed by crowds and strict schedules. The classic rule of thumb is to invite only as many guests as your child’s age — or their age plus one. (Bring as many bears as you like.)

BEAR NECESSITIES

Set up a backdrop for photos, which can be tucked inside thank you cards for your guests. Fill a picnic basket with bears and tie on a few balloons to set the scene.

For the girls’ hats, we used a hot glue gun to dress up simple sun hats with artificial flowers and berries. For boys, use fishing hats and lures. Older children might enjoy designing their own. We bought our hats and flowers at the Dollar Tree. Cost: $2.50 each.

BEARY GOOD TREATS

Berries, of course. Gummy bears are great, too.

To create a fun Bear Party Mix, we combined Teddy Grahams, Honey Maid Bees and mini marshmallows. Raisins and other dried fruit would be tasty, too.

Use a bear-shaped cookie cutter to make peanut butter and honey sandwiches. For a breakfast party, pour teddy bear pancakes.

BEARLY PLAYING

A picnic is more fun with games to play. Don’t overdo it, but try these activities if the kids need a little direction:

• Toss the Bees into the Honey Pots: Decorate small flower pots or buckets to look like honey pots. Have kids toss bean bags into the pots to win a prize.
• Teddy Bear Hot Potato: Play some music (perhaps “Teddy Bear’s Picnic” — download a version on iTunes that suits your style). Have children sit in a circle and pass around a bear. When the music stops, the child left holding the bear is out but gets a small prize.
• Read a bear story. There are lots of classics like “Goldilocks and the Three Bears,” or the Berenstain Bears and Paddington Bear.
• Cut fun bear shapes with cookie cutters and dough.

Story and ideas by Sara Bristol. Photos by Destiny Williams.

Construction Zone Party

CAUTION: PARTY ZONE

Can you build it? Yes, you can!

When Michael Ozanich asked for a “Bob the Builder” party to mark his fourth birthday, his parents built a celebration inspired by the construction of their new Selah home.

The family’s not-yet-finished basement — with its exposed framework and concrete floors — set the scene, decked out with a roll of yellow caution tape.

When the kiddy crew arrived at the construction site, a hard hat and tool belt were waiting for them to get to work (partying, of course).

A stack of boxes and a wrecking ball were the hit of the party, so to speak. In fact, the wrecking ball (a volleyball wrapped in black plastic, suspended from the ceiling) was such as smash that Michael’s mom Aimee tells us she left it hanging for over three months.

INVITATIONS: Using her computer, Aimee made invitations with clip art of hard hats, bulldozers and construction-themed word play: Foreman Michael is turning four! Can you help him build a fun foundation for his next year? We will be breaking ground on Jan. 23. Your shift begins at 3 p.m.

ACTIVITY: Before the party, Crew Boss Brent (a.k.a. Dad) made kits for the kids to build their own tool boxes. Then, with a little help from the boss man, the crew hammered together their boxes and personalized them with paint.

TOOL BOX TIPS

Find directions to make your own tool box at lowes.com. Look in the How-To Library.

Or, purchase wood craft kits online for about $8-10 each at ssww.com or woodcraft.com.

• Create a Work Zone Obstacle Course: Crawl through a box, balance across a 2-by-4 and steer a wheelbarrow through traffic cones.

• To provide a safe space for little ones, tuck a box of building blocks or Legos in a corner.

CAKE: No construction required here. This one’s super easy — dish up a heap of mud (actually a mound of brownies, tossed with some gummy worms.) Dig in!

FAVORS: Stock the tool boxes with a couple of real tools from a dollar store and they’re set to go.

Party supplies & entertainment

A-1 Jumpers
Inflatable jumpers.
Track 29, 1 W. Yakima Ave., Yakima. 853-2980.

Balloons By Design
Designer balloon bouquets and character rentals.
7 N. Seventh Ave., Yakima. 575-8698. balloons4sale.com

The Cake Decorator’s Shoppe
Cake and candy-making supplies and classes.
2606 W Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima. 494-0975.

Fiesta Foods
Piñatas and cakes.
1008 E. Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima. 928-2274.

Flying Hat Ranch
Pony rides.
1090 Cabin Lane, Yakima. 698-4426. flyinghatranch.bravehost.com

It’s a Blast
Superheroes, princesses and other character entertainment.
Yakima. 949-0436.

J & S Jumpers
Inflatable jumpers; table and chair rentals.
Sunnyside. 391-5761.

Jumpers, Inc.
Inflatable jumpers.
201 S. Third Ave., Yakima. 469-5867. jumpersinc.com

Just Ask Rental
Helium, cotton candy, dunk tanks and more.
1722 Morgan Road, Sunnyside. 837-3737.

La Bodega Yakimex
Piñatas.
511 N 1st St, Yakima. 469-6194.

Mad Science
Interactive science shows; make slippery slime, putty or bouncy balls.
966-3015. madscience.org/yakima

Miles of Smiles
Tambow the Clown.
Tammy Danforth: 509-930-4527. clowntoday.com/blog

Noah’s Ark Animal Workshop
“Stuff-n-Fluff” stuffed animal and Bella Bee glamour parties hosted in your home.
Valerie Robinett: 307-7268

Party Connection
Costumes, balloons, decorations and party rentals.
1104 Tieton Drive, Yakima. 453-7877. party-connection.com

Party Palace
Decorations, balloons and rentals.
2011 W. Lincoln Ave., Yakima. 453-0048.

Ruben’s Tortilleria & Bakery
Piñatas, jumpers and cakes.
1309 N. First St., Yakima. 249-1247.

Think & Throw Educational Toys & Sport Store
Children’s gift registry.
101 W. First St., Selah. 697-6022.

Places to host a party

Children’s Activity Museum
Party room and museum play.
118 E. Fourth Ave., Ellensburg. 509-925-6789. thechildrensactivitymuseum.org

Crazy Kids Hair Design
Glamour parties.
3 N. First St., Selah. 698-6967.

Franklin Pool
Outdoor pool with slide.
2101 Tieton Drive, Yakima. 575-6035. www.ci.yakima.wa.us

Hands On Art
Paint your own pottery.
5603 Summitview Ave., Suite 100, Yakima. 966-4248.

Kent School of Dance
Dance lessons and private space; available evenings and Friday and Saturday afternoons.
Glenwood Square, 5110 Tieton Drive, Yakima. Ask for Jean: 965-2768. kentschoolofdance.com

Kids Castle
Private party rooms, games & indoor play structure; pool available Saturdays in the summer.
Inside Gymnastics Plus, 2121 W. Lincoln Ave., Yakima. 453-8126.

The Learning Tree Children’s Center
Private room and facilitator.
3609 Tacoma St., Union Gap. 574-5755. thelearningtree-uniongap.com

Lions Pool
Indoor pool party.
Fifth Avenue and Pine Street, Yakima. 575-6046. www.ci.yakima.wa.us

Meadowbrook Family Fun Center
Reserved party area, arcade tokens and pizza.
7200 W. Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima. 966-3836. yakimafamilyfun.com

Monkey Dooz
Glamour, princess and pirate parties.
Glenwood Square, 5110 Tieton Drive, Yakima. 853-4247. monkeydooz.net

The Museum Soda Fountain
Old-fashioned sodas and ice cream. For playtime, coordinate with a group rate at the Children’s Underground or visit Franklin Park.
2105 Tieton Drive, Yakima. 457-9810.

Nob Hill Lanes
Cosmic bowling.
3807 W. Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima. 966-1070.

Out On a Whim Children’s Bookstore
Party room and planning.
108 S. Third Ave., Yakima. 576-3635. outonawhimbooks.com

Red Art Gallery
Personalized art parties.
30 N. Third St., Yakima. 469-2766.

Selah Gym Kids
709 N. Park Centre, Selah. 698-5437.

Selah’s J. Francis Pool
Outdoor pool, available Saturday mornings and evenings in season.
214 S. Third St., Selah. 698-7306.

Skateland Fun Center
2506 Old Town Road, Union Gap. 575-6442.

Yakima Family YMCA
Indoor pool and party room rentals.
5 N. Naches Ave., Yakima. 248-1202. yakimaymca.org

Yakima Valley Trolleys
Charter trolley rides.
Third Avenue and Pine Street, Yakima. 249-5962. yakimavalleytrolleys.org