Barnyard Party Ideas

     There probably isn't a kid around that doesn't have a fascination with one farm animal or another, so if you are planning a birthday party for kids, a Barnyard Party may be the perfect way to combine two celebrations in one. If you are lucky enough to know someone that lives on a farm, the planning will practically take care of itself. Just utilize the wide open spaces and let the kids have fun. Seeing the various farm animals will be exciting enough, however if a pony or farm wagon is available for rides, the event will be even more memorable. Since most people don't have a family farm in the neighborhood, the majority of barnyard parties are held at commercial farms. A simple online search should find a variety of available farms, even near the heart of the busiest city. If you go this route, the party planner will arrange most of the details for you and will also be in familiar with necessary safety precautions. (Be sure hand sanitizer or a hand washing station is available any time children actually come in contact with animals . . . and don't forget sunscreen and bug repellant!) Depending on the time of year, special activities may be available, including berry picking, hayrides, pumpkin decorating or corn mazes. Be sure any special activities fit the abilities and attention span for the age range of the children that will attend.
     If you plan to have the party at your home, it is still possible to choose a farm or barnyard theme. Either focus on your child's favorite animal, or include a variety of farm animals.  Red Barn Party Invitations are especially cute and come in a variety of designs. If you want guests to dress in overalls, or another farm theme, be sure to include this information on the invitation. Farm and barnyard decorations are readily available at discount and party stores, or can be handmade. The birthday cake or cupcakes can be easily decorated to follow the theme.
     If you have a set of plastic horseshoes, early arrivals can try their luck while waiting for the other guests to arrive and farm music playing in the background will set the mood. You can adapt all of your favorite party games to the theme, including farm animal charades. Animal puppets are easy for the kids to make from brown paper bags, and free coloring sheets are available online.  Try to include a contest of some sort, since even the smallest farmers like to "win" a prize. Candy corn and animal stickers are a good prize or filler for a goody bag. Older children may enjoy planting a bean or flower seed to take home with them in a paper cup they have decorated. As with any outdoor celebration, have a backup plan for inclement weather. If the thought of a barnyard theme party appeals to you, don't try to be too elaborate.  You know better than anyone what will give your child a special day, so just let your imagination run wild!