Editor’s Note: For more tips on birthday parties, see our articles “NYC’s 10 Best Birthday Cakes” and “Delicious Cake Alternatives“
Regardless of age or activity and theme presence, there truly is a party venue for every child in New York City. Our top venue list includes sporty soirees, arty parties, red carpet bashes, and many more! Plus, our roundup of the city’s top party entertainers (think musicians, clowns, and more) is guaranteed to make even the most seasoned party-goers crack a smile.
VENUES
14th Street Y: Rent out this wide-open space for your child’s next birthday bash. Located in the East Village, this vibrant community center offers private rooms and a rooftop playground. 14streety.org
74th St. MAGIC: 74th St. MAGIC’s popular party themes are jam-packed with fun activities in their gym, baby gym, and party room! The outdoor rooftop playground is available, too, weather permitting. The caring, experienced staff makes sure everyone is engaged and having fun. 74magic.com
92Y: Celebrate good times on the Upper East Side at 92Y. Choose from gymnastics, sports, splish-splash, or Little Fishes Pool and PartyArty! Age-appropriate packages available. 92Y provides staff, sports equipment, art supplies, party favors, and more. You bring the food, decorations, and, of course, the birthday boy or girl! 92y.org
American Museum of Natural History: Party with a night, or day, at the museum! Choose from four adventure-themed parties offered throughout the week or plan a group sleepover beneath a 94-ft-long blue whale. Membership required. amnh.org
Applause NYC: Give your regards to Broadway with an Applause NYC birthday party for kids 1-12. Whether they bring the party to you or provide their Upper East Side space, your party’s a guaranteed smash hit with 14 theme selections. applauseny.com
apple seeds: With convenient locations in Chelsea and the Upper West Side, apple seeds offers customized birthday parties for children up to 5. The Ultimate Party includes room to roam with the entire playground reserved for your guests. appleseedsplay.com
The Art Farm in the City: Book your party at The Art Farm in The City, the only indoor petting zoo in NYC, featuring chinchillas, rabbits, lizards, and birds. Kick it off with disco dancing or circle time, create amazing art projects, mingle with the critters, then end the party with food and cake. Themes include Mad Science, Farm Animals, Princess & Knights, and more. Appropriate for ages 1-8 years. theartfarms.org
Asphalt Green: Get physical with a party at this Upper East Side premier athletic complex. Asphalt Green hosts active parties for children ages 3-12. From gymnastics to martial arts to pool parties, kids can get their fit on. asphaltgreen.org
Ballet Academy East: At Ballet Academy East, the birthday child and her posse bask in a decorated studio and personalized ballet class according to a theme of the child’s choice. Following the lesson, guests dance a ballet story recited by the teacher. balletacademyeast.com
Bowlmor Lanes: Bowl the kids over with fun at Bowlmor Lanes. The Times Square location showcases 50 lanes and exclusive New York City history. Book your upcoming party and let the event team get the ball rolling. bowlmor.com
Broadway Birthday Bashes At The PIT (The Peoples Improv Theater): Broadway Birthday Bashes, the official birthday party division of The Peoples Improv Theater, creates musicals inspired by your birthday boy or girl. Packages can include backstage passes to meet the performers, snow cones, and face painting. broadwaybirthdaybashes.com
Bronx Zoo: Go wild with a Bronx Zoo birthday party celebration. Available for ages 1-12, parties include a private room, exhibit tour, and up-close interaction with some of the most beloved zoo residents. bronxzoo.com
Central Park Zoo: It’s a jungle out there, and your child can celebrate as king or queen for a day at the Central Park Zoo. From meeting zookeepers to feeding sea lions, party packages are sure to keep guests roaring with excitement. centralparkzoo.com
Chelsea Piers: Chelsea Piers at Pier 61 delivers endless party possibilities. With the Field House, Golf Club, Sky Rink, and Bowlmor Lanes, parents can choose from rock climbing, golf, ice skating, bowling, and more. chelseapiers.com
Children’s Museum of Manhattan (CMOM): Whether your child is turning 1 or 10, CMOM will create a memorable extravaganza just for you! Enthusiastic educators, musicians and artists lead the fun with fantastic art projects, music, and adventure. All birthday parties include: invitations, decorations, a personalized cake from Magnolia Bakery, pizza, party favors, and museum admission. cmom.org
Children’s Museum of the Arts (CMA): The art of celebration comes alive for birthdays at CMA in SoHo. Party times are Fridays-Sundays for children ages 1-14. Select a package or rent out the entire museum. cmany.org
Citibabes: Build it and they will come! Citibabes Soho allows parents to build their perfect party—and the staff takes care of the rest. From 90 minutes to two hours, kids can enjoy live music and fun in a 1,500-square-ft playroom. citibabes.com
Color Me Mine: Tap into your child’s artistic side with a birthday party at Color Me Mine in Tribeca. With more than 100 items to choose from, partygoers design and paint their own masterpieces, creating a lasting memory for years to come. tribeca.colormemine.com
Columbus Gym: You’ll tumble for an energetic party at Columbus Gym on the Upper West Side. The 90-minute parties cater to children ages 1-12. Supervised by USGF certified staff, gym time includes bars, beams, rings, and trampoline. columbusgymnyc.com
Cozy’s Cuts for Kids: Girls just want to have fun at Cozy’s Cuts for Kids with two convenient Manhattan locations. Glam it up with one of four birthday packages featuring manicures and makeup, or get the Glam-To-Go. cozyscutsforkids.com
The Craft Studio: The Craft Studio is famous for its magical birthday parties, toy and candy shop, classes, workshops, afterschool programs, parties to go, and special events. All of the programs and events are run with TLC and a wonderful touch that is uniquely the Craft Studio. craftstudionyc.com
Dave & Buster’s: It’s Game Day every day at Dave and Buster’s Times Square. Birthday packages are available for groups of 10 or more with special menus, game cards, and unlimited video game upgrades. Plus, your child scores with a D&B souvenir T-shirt. daveandbusters.com
Discovery Programs: An integral part of New York for more than three decades, Discovery Programs offers eight interactive party themes for children ages 1-14. Reserve the gym, ballroom, or classroom for a Sunday celebration. discoveryprograms.com
Dylan’s Candy Bar: You’ll feel like you’ve won the Golden Ticket with a birthday party celebration at Dylan’s Candy Bar in Midtown. Build your own or choose from Sugar Babies or Sweetie Pie Parties. dylanscandybar.com
East Side Tae Kwon Do: At East Side Tae Kwon Do, children learn techniques to break boards, kick, and punch—then cut a birthday cake using a real Samurai sword. Kids can chop their way through the big day! eastsidetaekwondo.com
Fantasma Magic: Abracadabra! An award-winning Fantasma Magic birthday party will amaze family and friends. The birthday child becomes the magician’s assistant, and party guests get to participate in a 45-minute magic show. Four unique options fit every budget. Located in Midtown. fantasmamagic.com
FAO Schwarz: Start spreading the news about your FAO Schwarz celebration at the Fifth Ave flagship store. The FAO Toy soldier greets guests, guiding them to the second floor private party room. Event planners ensure big fun, like piano dancing! fao.com
The Gaga Center: Your kids will go gaga on the Upper East Side for a 90-minute birthday party filled with high energy, plenty of room to roam, music, and the game of gaga. Packages can include food, a live DJ, and photographer. gagacenter.com
Galli Theater: A birthday extravaganza! In the heart of the Midtown, Galli Theater puts on two-hour shows for all ages. Choose from four package deals or ask them to take the show on road and come to you. gallitheaterny.com
Get Coiffed: These stylists make house calls, transforming your average birthday party into a hair-raising event! Choose from a Rocker Girl or Giggles and Girlfriends party, with the option to create professional photographs and music videos. getcoiffed.com
Gymtime Rhythm & Glues: What time is it? Gym time! Featuring exciting party themes and activities like Tae Kwon Do, guests are sure to get a kick out of your birthday boy or girl’s special day. Parties are 1.5 hours long on the Upper East Side. gymtime.net
Hi Art!: Want an authentic New York experience? Host a Hi Art! Arty Party at this 2,500-square-ft Chelsea studio and gallery. Kids build candy sculptures or improvise to live music with artistic flair. An artisanal catering option is also available. hiartkids.com
Hill Country Hospitality: At both Hill Country Chicken and Hill Country BBQ, the team does extensive catering and private event hosting—including birthdays and mitzvahs. The vibe is one of Southern charm, the food is crowd-pleasing, and the event teams can accommodate just about any request. hillcountryny.com
Home Cooking New York: What’s cooking in Greenwich Village and Chelsea? Your next birthday party with Home Cooking New York! Rent a fully equipped culinary studio or cook up a storm in your own kitchen. homecookingny.com
The Horticulture Society (the Hort): Let the Hort add an exciting twist to your birthday merriment. Choose from a variety of green-themed parties—including Ladybug Picnic, Wiggling Wonders, and Tiny Terrariums—and let the staff meet your child’s current natural fascination. thehort.org
iLuminate: The new edition of iLuminate, opened earlier in 2014 at New World Stages to rave reviews. Music, art, dance, and the technological magic of iLuminate brings this extraordinary spectacle to the New York stage—making it the perfect outing for a birthday party (that kids and adults alike will enjoy in awe). iluminate.com
The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum: If you feel the need for speed, book an action-packed birthday party at The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum at Pier 86. Select from six party themes and Silver, Gold, and Platinum packages. intrepidmuseum.org
The JCC in Manhattan: Party space is available ranging from 425-6,000-square-ft at The JCC in Manhattan. Sports birthday parties are also available for children ages 2-12. Located on the Upper West Side. jccmanhattan.org
Jodi’s Gym: Encourage your child to flex his birthday muscles at Jodi’s Gym on the Upper East Side. Private parties with an attentive staff allow you the opportunity to relax and mingle with guests. Extras range from piñatas to art to healthy snacks. jodisgym.com
Karma Kids Yoga: Karma Kids Yoga birthday parties include basic and challenging poses, creative breathing techniques, fun yoga games, and relaxation time with hand and foot massages. Choose a basic party package or go with one of the signature specialties: Pajama Yoga, Circus Yoga, Butterfly Yoga, Yoga Spa Party, Downward Doll Yoga, and Yoga Mat Painting. karmakidsyoga.com
Kate Tempesta’s Urban Golf Academy: KTUGA offers amazing birthday parties for kids 4-8. Pick from a list of activities including shadow screen play, storytelling and dramatic play, music and movement, multi-spot games, golf putting, and more. Parties are one hour long, with equipment, music, prizes, and instructor provided. ktuga.com
Kids At Art: The most creative, fun, and personalized birthday parties are at Kids at Art, where there are a variety of art projects to choose from in a private art studio, which is all yours for an hour and a half. Projects can be tailor-made for your child, or you can choose from a variety of others. kidsatartnyc.com
Kids At Work: Twenty or so kids ages 1-5 can enjoy an all-inclusive party in the lofty, 1,000-square-ft facility. Basic packages start at 90 minutes with art, pizza, balloons, and a party planner. Add extras such as a 40-minute Jam Session as part of a two-hour celebration. kidsatworknyc.com
Kids In Sports: Coaches instruct groups up to 40 boys and girls ages 2 and up at many different locations (Kids In Sports class locations or one of your own, indoor or outdoor). Choose from baseball, football, soccer, volleyball, floor hockey, or basketball and ramp up the excitement with various other group games. kisnyc.com
Kidville: Whether it’s a Rockin’ Railroad Birthday Bash or a Fairy Princess Party, Kidville’s got your little ones covered. Birthday children choose from 17 themes to bring 10 friends (or 20 with the Party PLUS option) to enjoy. Satisfy kids’ hunger for food and fun at one of seven New York City locations. kidville.com
Let’s Dress Up!: Let’s Dress Up offers six party choices on the Upper East Side, such as a Red Carpet Party or a Mermaid Tea Party. Costumes, favors, and birthday banners delight children. letsdressupct.com
Let’s Gogh Art: The Creativity Crew at Let’s Gogh Art can come to a location of your choice for an art-filled party where every child takes home a hand-made creation. Choose from one of 27 different themes (think Gogh Glam and Sensational Scrapbooks), plus add-ons like face painting and premium favors are also available. nyletsgoghart.com
Liberty Science Center: Birthday guests enjoy all-day admission to exhibit floors, cake, and parking vouchers. With hide-and-seek, the Touch Tunnel maze, digital graffiti, and more, kids ages 1-12 can enjoy an activity-packed weekend party. lsc.org
Little Maestros: Boogie to original Little Maestros music, story time, and puppet shows. Talented teachers lead the birthday bashes at various Manhattan locations and use top- of-the-line instruments. littlemaestros.com
Loop of the Loom: Six to 12 weavers can take designs home after a Loop of the Loom birthday on the Upper East Side. Suggested for ages 6 and up, children make homemade weaves or felt creations under the guidance of an instructor. loopoftheloom.com
Madame Tussaud’s: Madame Tussaud’s spans 85,000-square- ft and houses more than 225 wax figures. The Times Square venue houses a 4D theater and Super Heroes Experience. Packages for ages 4 and up can include Wax Hands, a personal photographer, and concession voucher. madametussauds.com/newyork
Mad Science: Kids ages 5-12 can interact for about an hour making cotton candy, bubble potions, or launching rockets. Mad Science provides goody bags and accepts groups up to 20 children. madscience.org
Make Meaning: Celebrate creativity at Make Meaning with a party focused on making glassware, cakes, ceramics, and more on the Upper East or West Sides. The private events space features two Creative Experiences, a main event and a side show, with a custom cake, decorations, and a VIP pass to return. makemeaning.com
Manhattan Movement & Arts Center: Choose from The Amazing Magic Party or The Freckle-taining Party at the Upper West Side’s Manhattan Movement & Arts Center. Enjoy a private party run by staff with meet-and-greets, ticket discounts, Freckleface posters, and silly bands. manhattanmovement.com
McBurney YMCA: Book a Saturday or Sunday birthday party room at McBurney YMCA for up to 15-20 guests (depending on type of party). One package for 16 guests offers a one- hour activity such as gym sports, swimming, crafts, face painting, or playing in the indoor playground. ymcanyc.org/mcburney
Mo’ Motion: Mo’ Motion offers basketball and multi-sports themed parties for children grades 2-8. They work with the parents and children to tailor the birthday activities to fit their age, skill and interests. Spirited instructors coach and lead up to 25 kids for almost two hours and then walk the kids to a nearby restaurant for pizza. momotion.org
Moving to the Beat: Batman, “Frozen,” drama, music and movement, and puppets characterize birthday options at Moving to the Beat. Play games and interact with the animated singer Robert the Guitar Guy. Parties for ages 3 and under are available, as well. movingtothebeat.net
Museum of the City of New York: Piece of Cake Parties and the museum team up to present four customized celebrations, each 90 minutes long for up to 20 children. Invites, balloons, pizza, cake, and more come standard. Themes include Taxis & Trains Adventure and Super Skyscraper Caper. mcny.org
My Gym: My Gym—which has several NYC locations, including Harlem and the Upper East Side—custom-designs each party to incorporate your child’s favorite age-appropriate games, activities, rides, songs, puppets, and more. They deliver an unmatched level of energy and excitement with the right combination of structured activities and free play. Several packages are available, including various themes, food, and party favors. mygym.com
Mystery & Mayhem: Mystery & Mayhem offers incredible improvisational and age-appropriate dress up mystery parties where guests ages 7-18 become suspects in a horrendous crime! “Like Clue, but better!” is the way one youngster described the event, with five riveting and hilarious dramas to choose from. Guests receive gifts of crystals or semi-precious stones in pouches. mysteryandmayhem.com
New York Hall of Science: Boasting New York’s largest Science Playground as well as other activities like mini golf and magic, the Super Science Birthday party at the New York Hall of Science is fun for all. A party includes exhibit tours, interactive activities, and demonstrations. Favors and food included. nysci.org
New York Kids Club: With locations on the east and west sides as well as in Brooklyn, you’re never far from a party at New York Kids Club. Choose from a basic or an all-inclusive package with themes like Hip Hop Happening, Spectacular Science Party, Adventures in Storyland, and Broadway Birthday. nykidsclub.com
New York Transit Museum: Enjoy a peek at New York’s transit past with a birthday party at the New York Transit Museum. Vintage cars, a birthday turnstile, and even a bus driver’s seat for guests to sit in accompany party activities like Design a Vehicle, Make a Mosaic, and Scavenger Hunt. mta.info/mta/museum
Peridance Capezio Center: Birthday parties are offered on Sunday from 11am-1pm. Guests arrive and are treated to a 45-minute dance class in styles including ballet, African, hip hop, salsa, and many more. You provide the decorations and food; the center provides props, dance games, and fun activities. peridance.com
Pins & Needles: Pins & Needles offers Sew Much Fun party packages for kids ages 7-14 who love DIY. Parties are customized for the age and skill level of the group. They offer a range of projects to choose from including a tote
bag, clutch, appliqué pillow, basic elastic waist skirt, and more. Parties include decorations, project, and materials, with other optional additions. pinsandneedlesnyc.com
Playgarden: Playgarden’s Blowout Birthday Party is a fun-filled celebration with private use of two indoor playgrounds! Children 1-6 love the jungle gyms, slides, ball pits, trampolines, roller coasters, and zipline rides! Playgarden coaches run structured games, dancing, obstacle courses, and puppet shows. Cake, cupcakes, pizza, and beverages are included. playgardennyc.com
Pop Star Parties: With celebrations hosted at DeeTown Studios (near Union Square), partygoers get to sing to their heart’s content, analyze lyrics, and find out what goes on behind the scenes at a studio where stars like Miley Cyrus and the Jonas Brothers have recorded. The party includes a two-song recording session, download link for the music produced, and pizza, drinks, and more for up to 18 pop stars. popstarparties.com
Poppyseed Pre-Nursery: At Poppyseed Pre-Nursery, throw the perfect birthday party for your baby, toddler, or 2-year- old and friends. In a warm and nurturing environment, with a space that feels like a large living room, the partygoers will sing, dance, and do arts and crafts. poppyseedprenursery.com
Queens County Farm Museum: For a farm birthday party, look no further than the Queens County Farm, offering children’s birthday parties from April to October for little ones ages 1-12. A full service party incorporates tractor drawn hayrides, animal feeding, and a farmyard tour. Pizza, cake, and favors included. queensfarm.org
Red Carpet Kids: Butlers wait hand-and-foot, makeup artists powder little noses, and paparazzi snap photos of your child walking the red carpet with friends. Partygoers get to act in mini movies (that they can take home) before viewing the footage at an after-party bash with pizza, soda, candy, popcorn stands, and cake. redcarpetkidsnyc.com
Reebok Sports Club/NY: Boasting one of the largest party spaces in Manhattan, this venue will send out invitations
for your child’s party and provide food and decorations. Entertainment and activities provided at extra charge. Set-up and clean-up provided. reeboksportsclubny.com
The Scholastic Store: With 15 custom birthday party packages ranging from Space Shindig to Pajama Party to Clifford’s Big Birthday Bash, the Scholastic Store in SoHo has it all. Looking to create a more personalized party? The store’s party planning service, will work with you to make your child’s dream party a reality. store.scholastic.com
SciTech Kids: SciTech Kids offers science parties that include experiments and demonstrations that are interactive, exciting, and educational for kids 4-11. Themes include beauty and spa science, sports and velocity, mad science chemistry, and more. sci-techkids.com
Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids: Throw a glam birthday party for your daughter at Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids. Parties take place in the Glamour Girl dressing room where partygoers get a new hairstyle, makeup application, and mini-cure. Pizza and juice or soda provided. sharkeyscutsforkids.com
Simply Sports: For sports fans ages 3-13, Simply Sports offers age-appropriate parties that revolve around activities including baseball, basketball, flag football, and soccer. The fun can take place indoors or outdoors. simplysports.net
Slate: Slate’s two-floor, spacious lounge environment holds pool tables and foosball tables galore. From dancing to games to magicians, a party at Slate is complete with food, goody bags, and invitations. slate-ny.com
Soccer by Coach Fher: The best kind of party is when the kids come home exhausted! Coach Fher ensures this will happen at his one- and two-hour soccer parties. Providing a coach for every six children, Coach Fher takes care of every detail. The party ends with a family or children’s game. coachfher.com
SPiN New York: For a ping pong party like no other, SPiN New York’s private event room includes a ping pong table, bar (for soda and juice!), disco ball, dance floor, DJ booth, and lounge area. newyork.spingalactic.com
SPORTIME: Randall’s Island: Randall’s Island’s state-of- the-art tennis facility will host a party for your little tennis pro, providing instruction, equipment and tennis courts complete with a party room for enjoying cake afterward. Activities include energetic tennis games and a round robin tournament. sportimeny.com
Sports Club/LA: For Kids Only (FKO) at Reebok Sports Club/NY & The Sports Club/LA-Upper East Side is a club within a club for children. FKO hosts birthday parties customized to match your child’s interests. Choose from a variety of exciting activities including sports, rock climbing, toddler gym, dance, movement, art, music, and more. thesportsclubla.com
StoryTime By Design: Offering 15 different theme birthday parties, StoryTime by Design provides a unique story hour experience. The facilitators will lead your child and guests through a storytelling that makes use of art, music, puppetry, and dramatic play. storytimebydesign.com
Super Soccer Stars: Party packages include 60 minutes of soccer and 30 minutes for food, cake, and party festivities. Customize your party with Super Soccer Stars balls as favors, t-shirts, catering, personalized e-vites, balloons, a surprise visit from Kick the Mascot, and more. Parties are available at one of our many locations, in the park, in your home. supersoccerstars.com
Symphony Space: Make your kid’s birthday a grand experience with a Just Kidding party at Symphony Space. The party includes tickets to a Just Kidding performance (with the best seating in the theater), a birthday shout-out during the performance, a party in Bar Thalia at Symphony Space, cake and refreshments, and more. symphonyspace.org
TADA! Youth Theater: Celebrate like a star! Choose from three different packages for your child’s birthday where they come to you for an interactive song and dance soiree, or you can go to them for a show or even a command performance. tadatheater.com
TLB Music: With a playroom boasting a clubhouse, rock climbing mountain, play kitchen, and a transportation corner, TLB Music offers music parties and free play parties. Themes include Jungle Boogie, Barnyard Bash, and Rock and Roll, or you can tailor the party to your child’s favorite songs and musical tastes. tlbmusic.com
Tie Dye Town: Host a groovy party at Tie Dye Town, where guests will make t-shirts, artwork, or bracelets with themes like World’s Greatest Super Hero Tie Dye party, World’s Greatest Super-Hero Tie Dye party, and World’s Greatest Tie Dye Slime party. Tie Dye cupcakes and cake, as well as tattoos, round out the list of unique party amenities. tiedyetown.com
Tiger Schulmann’s Karate: Tiger Schulmann’s Karate will have your child’s party guests punching, kicking, and blocking their way through a fun-filled birthday. Guests receive introductory course certificates to show their accomplishments. It’s a healthy way to celebrate! tsk.com
Twinkle Party: The ultimate ballerina party takes place at Twinkle Party, where guests dress up in tutus and take a ballet class. An interactive classical ballet story as well as a tiara for the birthday girl will all be included. Parties are held for up to 25 participating ballerinas. twinklepartyfun.com
Vanderbilt YMCA: At the Vanderbilt YMCA, conveniently located in Midtown East, parents can choose from pre- planned sports, fitness, and pool parties. Parents supply food, beverages and decorations. Looking for a different twist? The Y’s party planner will also work with you to plan a custom party that fits your child’s interests. ymcanyc.org/vanderbilt
Victorian Gardens: At Central Park’s Victorian Gardens Amusement Park, party guests receive day-long unlimited ride passes! Partygoers will celebrate amidst more than 30,000-ft of rides, games, and attractions, before chowing down on treats like chicken tenders, turkey sandwiches, hot dogs, cookies, and fruit. victoriangardensnyc.com
West Side Taekwondo: Available for parties after 1pm on Sundays, West Side Taekwondo will offer a two-hour party complete with introductory lesson, children’s games, and demonstration of forms, sparring, and board breaks. westsidetkd.com
West Side YMCA: Experts in giving your child a special day, the historic West Side YMCA has created a range of party packages including roof top parties, pool parties, drama parties, sports parties, and dance parties. Teens can also have a party in the teen center, and there is space for parties in the Early Child Exploration Play Center for ages 1-6. ymcanyc. org/westside
Yogi Beans: For a yoga party that will have all of your child’s friends in knots, head to Yogi Beans’ new Upper East Side studio for one of the fabulous birthday party packages including the “Spa-tacular” and “Paint Your Face Off”Yogi Beans Birthday Bashes. Each package allows for yoga activities followed by pizza and drinks. yogibeans.com
Yorkville Youth Athletic Association: YYAA’s multi-sport party package at their Baseball Academy is their most popular birthday party. Combining activities from baseball and basketball, to flag football, floor hockey, dodgeball, and scooter racing creates an exciting party for children of all ages. yyaa.org
CLOWNS
Daisy Doodle offers many fun party activities including magic shows, dance parties, toddler shows, face-painting, balloon twisting, princess and pirate characters, and holiday shows. daisydoodle.com
Each child who attends Looney Lenny’s hilarious, interactive magic show (with juggling!) receives their own clown-o-rific name and balloon animal. looneyluckylennyland.com
Juliet Schaefer Jeske’s talents include face painting, balloon twisting, stilts, silly magic, and playing the ukulele and accordion. rednosesnewyork.com
Sammie and Tudie’s clowning philosophy: life is better when you’re laughing. This comedic, magic circus show is ideal for ages 3 and up. imaginationplayhouse.com
FACE PAINTING
Not your typical face painting experience, the award-winning Faces by Derrick will make your kids, ages 3 and up, wish to never wash their faces again. facesbyderrick.com
Girls especially love the signature unicorn design of Face Art by Melissa. This mother of two does fabulous face art and gorgeous glitter tattoos. faceartbymelissa.com
The owner of Hearts Face Painting & Balloon Art, “Hearts,” brings both creative art forms to birthday environments. facepaintingballoontwisting.com
Kiki’s Faces and Balloons is an all-encompassing entertainment company offering face painting, balloon sculpting, “silly people,” and princesses. kikisfacesandballoons.com
Party Faces By Rachel’s namesake has a background that’s practically a Ph.D. in paint. Her ability to charm the little ones while she works helps to keep them comfortable with the painting process. partyfacesbyrachel.com
MAGICIANS
The Amazing Max is so beloved; he even has his own Off-Broadway show for mega-magic families. His high- energy, interactive show blends comedy and juggling. maxdarwinmagic.com
Cardone the Ultimate Vaudeville Magician’s act includes escape artistry, ventriloquism, and classic scarf, coin, and card tricks. cardonethemagician.com
Children ages 3-7 will fold into fits of laughter at Gary the Great’s comedic magic act. He adapts his show based
on audience response, so no two performances are alike. ahrealmagic.com
Magic Al’s sleight of hand tricks will stupefy even grown-ups and his goofy antics keep kids in stitches throughout every performance. magic-al.com
Mario the Magician’s 45-minute set is aimed at kids ages 4-10 who are sure to go nuts for his silly antics and age-old slapstick humor. You can even add on a magic lesson to the end of his act. mariothemagician.com
Kids ages 3-8 (and their parents) will adore Silly Billy. This self-proclaimed “comedian for children” uses magic, balloon twisting, and lots of jokes to drum up laughter. sillybillymagic.com
MUSICIANS
Led by Audra Tsanos, Audra Rox’s family-friendly band is just right for Big Apple birthdays. Audra arrives at your party location ready to sing songs made for the city, incorporates the birthday child in the music and will have every guest jamming along on percussion props. audrarox.com
Brett Band is the brainchild of early childhood music educator Brett Rothenhaus, formerly of Little Maestros. His original music, along with kiddie classics, makes for a playlist that gets everybody on their feet. brettband.com
Looking for a royal way to celebrate your little girl’s birthday? Moey’s Music Party brings the pompoms, maracas, and parachute for 45 minutes of fun. Try the Princess Party Package filled with boas, bling, and boogieing. moeysmusicparty.com
Meredith LeVande, perhaps better known as Monkey Monkey Music, specializes in upbeat, original tunes for little ones. Her parachute-, instrument- and bubble-infused party shows instantly get all ages grooving. monkeymonkeymusic.com
Mr. RAY takes a mix-it-up approach to birthday gigs. Beginning with a concert and transitioning into a dance party, the festivities end with kids stepping up to sing solos on the mic. His music is a mix of originals, kids classics, and some classic rock for the parents. mrray.com
A one-man band, Rockin’With Andy makes kids and their parents want to shake their groove things. Mom and Dad love Andy’s acoustic guitar versions of grown-up hits, and the little ones go bananas for his kids classics. Andy also brings shakers, bells, scarves, and animal puppets for maximum rocking. rockinwithandy.com
SPECIALTY
If you can dream it, Nick the Balloonatic can make it. For the last 20 years, Nick’s handiwork has included flower bouquets, superheroes, monkeys on palm trees, top hats, and much more. nicktheballoonatic.com
Wendy the Pipe Cleaner Lady is a category unto herself. Girls adore her tiaras, boys covet her spider creations, and even celebrities like Martha Stewart want her pipe cleaner flower rings. thepipecleanerlady.com
