Are you struggling to come up with the perfect way to celebrate your child's 17th birthday? Well, look no further! We have 40 unique and exciting ideas that will make their special day one to remember.
17th Birthday Party Ideas for Girls
If you have a daughter who is turning 17, here are 10 original ideas that are sure to impress:
1. Candyland
Why not throw a candy-themed party? Set up a mesmerizing candy bar with all your daughter's favorite treats. Decorate the house in bright pastels, balloons, and garlands. Encourage guests to dress in bright colors to complete the aesthetic!
2. Paint and Sip
Even though your daughter can't drink wine or cocktails yet, a paint and sip party can still be a blast. Host it at home or find a local paint and sip studio. Just make sure the drinks are non-alcoholic!
3. Private Film Screening
Impress your teen with a private movie screening. Rent a screen at your local movie theater and ask them to play your daughter's favorite films. She can hang out with her friends, watch back-to-back films, and enjoy a meal and unlimited popcorn!
4. Head to a Concert
Drop your daughter and a few friends off at a concert of their choice. Imagine seeing your favorite artist for your 17th birthday! If none of her favorite musicians are playing, consider going to a tribute night.
5. Everything 17 Party
Keep it simple but original with an "Everything 17" party. Decorate with 17 of each thing, and of course, top it off with a giant "17" balloon to make it obvious what's going on!
6. Dancing Queen Party
Celebrate your 17-year-old with a disco-themed party. Decorate with disco-themed details, hire a DJ or ask your teen to make a playlist, and get ready for a lively party with all her best friends.
7. Grandiose Pool Party
Take your classic pool party to the next level by adding incredible details. Set up an outdoor projector so teens can swim and watch a film. Don't forget fun floaties, a delicious buffet, and mocktails for your daughter and her buddies.
8. Visit the Amusement Park
Take your daughter and her friends to an amusement park for a day of fun and adventure. Let them roam the park, try out crazy rides, and indulge in all kinds of theme-park foods.
9. Boho Backyard Brunch
Set up a gorgeous boho backyard brunch with neutral colors, delicious food, fruit platters, and flowers to decorate. Teens will love how picturesque the photos will look, especially when posted on social media.
10. Dance Class
Whether they have zero dancing experience or years of practice, a dance class birthday party is fun, hilarious, and a great bonding experience. Many dance studios will take on a 17th birthday party.
17th Birthday Party Ideas for Boys
Planning a 17th birthday party for your son? Here are 10 ideas that are sure to impress:
11. Destination Celebration
Theme your son's birthday party with his dream country in mind. Decorate with details native to the chosen city or country, as well as food, drinks, and possibly even outfits.
12. A Classy Event
Celebrate your son like the sophisticated man he's becoming with a classy affair. Request a formal dress code, serve fancy hors d'oeuvres and non-alcoholic bubbly, and create a formal playlist with fantastic party tunes.
13. Meal Out With Friends
Book a lovely restaurant for your son to visit with friends. Make this extra special by asking for a private room within the restaurant. Consider hiring a pianist or musician to play background music if the venue allows.
14. Hiking Party
Take your son and a few friends on a hiking adventure. Enjoy the majestic views and have a picnic along the way. Just make sure it's a safe trail with cell reception nearby.
15. Spooky Costume Party
Whether it's Halloween or the middle of spring, a spooky costume party is always an exciting idea. Decorate with scary details, orange and black balloons, and spooky appetizers. Plan Halloween-themed games and fun prizes to make the party even more exciting.
16. Yacht Party
If you own a boat or can hire one for the party, a yacht party is a classy and unforgettable way to celebrate. Your son and his friends can enjoy the experience without the need for alcohol.
17. Indoor Skydiving
Take a few friends to an indoor skydiving complex. They can take turns trying out the epic wind tunnels, watching each other float around, and taking hilarious videos to show their classmates the next week!
18. TV-Show Party
Throw a party inspired by your son's favorite TV show. Decorate according to the show's theme and serve accompanying food and drinks to complete the vibe.
19. Epic Games Night
Host an epic games night at home with your son's favorite friends. Combine board games, trivia quizzes, and video games for a night of fun and friendly competition.
20. Roller Skating Rink
Celebrate your son's 17th birthday with a cool and retro roller skating party. Many venues can help you host the party, providing a private function room where you can eat food and cake.
17-Year-Old Birthday Party Ideas at Home
Staying at home for a birthday party doesn't mean it can't be amazing. Here are 10 cozy ideas to please any 17-year-old:
21. Home Spa Day
Create a blissful spa experience at home with individual robes, face masks, and a manicure. Your teen might want you to help out or they may prefer to host themselves.
22. Book Club Party
Get together with friends to discuss a chosen book. After the discussion, enjoy a home-cooked meal, delicious drinks, and, of course, cake.
23. Backyard Movie Theater
Set up a backyard movie theater and watch a few movies under the stars. Serve appetizers, food, drinks, and dessert to complete the experience.
24. Murder Mystery Party
Host a murder mystery party and have everyone arrive dressed up as a certain character. Act out the script and let guests try to guess who the murderer is.
25. Backyard BBQ
Host a backyard BBQ with delicious food, classic party games, and plenty of sunshine (if possible).
26. Cake Swap Party
Ask each guest to bake a cake and bring it to the party. Guests can take a slice of each cake and try various flavors and sweet treats.
27. Sweet Vintage Party
Decorate your home with hand-picked flowers, lace tablecloths, and paper banners for a sweet vintage theme. Serve old-fashioned sweet treats to complete the ambiance.
28. Ice Cream Party
Set up an ice cream bar where teens can create their own ice cream sundaes. Provide a variety of ice cream flavors and fun toppings.
29. Sushi Party
If your teen loves sushi, have a sushi party with different kinds of sushi and other Japanese food. Play a fun round of Sushi Go, a sushi-inspired card game.
30. Family Slumber Party
Bring everyone together in one room for a family slumber party. Watch movies, eat pizza, and play games for a night of bonding.
17th Birthday Surprise Party Ideas
Planning a surprise party for your child's 17th birthday? Here are 10 ideas to make it unforgettable:
31. An Era Party
Take your teen back in time with an era-themed party. Decorate according to a specific decade and make sure your teen has a corresponding outfit to wear.
32. Surprise Work Delivery
If your teen has to work on their birthday, surprise them with a fun delivery. Drop off flowers, balloons, and a cake to brighten their day.
33. Surprise Streaming Party
Surprise your child with a streaming party for the release of their favorite show. Transform your living room into an at-home movie theater and invite their friends over for a night of binge-watching.
34. Favorite Cuisine
Surprise your teen with their favorite cuisine. Whether it's Mexican or Italian, let them indulge in their preferred flavors.
35. Memory Montage
Create a slideshow with videos and pictures from your teen's friends and family. Show the slideshow at the party to highlight how loved your teen is.
36. Surprise Picnic Party
Plan a surprise picnic party in a park or garden. Set up the tables, food, balloons, and cake in advance, and surprise your teen with a meaningful celebration.
37. Dinner Party
Invite a few close friends to a dinner celebration. Host it at home or a restaurant and serve your son's favorite foods.
38. Surprise Camping Party
Plan a surprise camping trip with your teen and have their friends waiting at the campsite. They'll be thrilled to see their best buddies and enjoy a weekend of outdoor fun.
39. Book a Unique Experience
Surprise your child with a unique experience-party. Take them go-karting, to a spa day, or on a hidden city tour. The secret and the experience will make it unforgettable.
40. Circus Theme
Throw a circus-themed surprise party with red and white decorations, games, and classic circus foods. Hire jugglers or acrobats to entertain the guests before indulging in popcorn, cotton candy, and more.
How To Throw a Fun 17th Birthday Party
Throwing a fun and successful 17th birthday party doesn't have to be stressful. Here are some tips to help you:
- Ensure the party works as a group by choosing a reasonable-sized venue, providing activities, and enough food and drink.
- Stay on trend and avoid cringy decorations or embarrassing moments for your teen.
- Focus on food and choose something your teenager will love. Consider hiring a caterer for a hassle-free meal.
- Involve your child in the planning process and take their preferences into account.
- Set a budget and stick to it to avoid overspending.
- Set a start and end time to keep the party on schedule and prevent guests from overstaying their welcome.
- Give your teen some space to enjoy their party and avoid being too present.
- Set ground rules regarding alcohol, drugs, music volume, smoking, and access to certain areas of your home.
What To Do for Your 17th Birthday in January
If your teen has a birthday in January, here are some ideas to make it special despite the chilly weather:
- Have an ice skating party at a local rink.
- Host a bonfire night with cozy blankets and warm drinks.
- Arrange a hot chocolate party with various flavors and toppings.
- Visit an indoor swimming pool or waterpark for some aquatic fun.
- Go to a sporting event to cheer on your favorite team.
- Hire a hot tub and have a relaxing soak with friends.
- Host a sleepover with movies, games, and plenty of snacks.
- Spend the evening at a planetarium for a unique and educational experience.
- Have a board game night with your favorite games.
- Go to the movie theater and catch the latest releases.
- Have a baking party and enjoy the delicious creations.
FAQs
Q: How can I ensure my 17-year-old's birthday party is a success? A: Consider your child's preferences, involve them in the planning process, and focus on food and activities that will appeal to their friends. Set ground rules, establish a budget, and create a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
Q: What can I do for my 17-year-old's birthday without spending too much money? A: Hosting a party at home is a budget-friendly option. You can also plan outdoor activities, such as a picnic or hiking party, that don't require much expenditure.
Q: How do I plan a surprise party without spoiling the surprise? A: Coordinate with your teen's close friends and family members to ensure they keep the party a secret. Make sure the venue is separate from your home and try to distract your teen with other activities to maintain the surprise.
Q: What activities are suitable for both boys and girls at a 17th birthday party? A: Many of the ideas mentioned in this article, such as the Candyland party, private film screening, and backyard movie theater, can be enjoyed by both boys and girls. Choose activities that are inclusive and appeal to everyone's interests.
Q: How can I make a winter birthday special for my 17-year-old? A: Embrace the winter season and plan activities that are unique to this time of year, such as ice skating parties, hot chocolate gatherings, or cozy bonfire nights. Don't let the cold weather dampen the celebration spirit!
