Birthday Party Places: Movie Theatres, Bowling Allies and More

Looking for a special way to celebrate your child's birthday? These unique venue options add a little extra fun to your child's special day. Prices and attendance requirements will vary.

1. Movie Theatres

Most movie theatres offer birthday party packages. For a fixed fee (ranging from $12.00 to $20.00 depending on the theatre), you get the movie, munchies and reserved seating. Additional items may include a gift for the birthday child, party favours and invitations.

2. Bowling Parties

Recommended for children ages 3+ and for small or large groups, bowling parties can be a lot of fun. Packages usually include one hour of bowling (10 or 5 pin), rental shoes, party room, party favours and lunch. You bring the cake and ice cream.

3. Play Centres

These indoor play areas are great venues for active children, offering lots to climb and space to run. Parties are about two hours long and include play time, party room, munchies and cake.

4. Ceramic Studios

Perfect for creative children, many of the paint-your-own pottery studios also host parties. Most packages are about two hours in length - an hour for art and an hour for munchies, games and/or presents. Most studios offer private party rooms and staff to help the children. Pottery is fired after the party and parents are contacted to pick-up the finished work.

5. Community Centres

Many community centres have meeting rooms or gyms that can be rented for a nominal fee. Perfect for parents who want to host their own party, the rental usually includes kitchen access, tables and chairs, and it's all yours to decorate. The open spaces also lend themselves to active games or performances. Many community centres also have drop-in centres, so you may even be able to borrow their toys and gear for your party.

By Rochelle Strauss