10 Ways to Celebrate Your Favorite Tween's Big Day

Once your kids hit the double digits, there are a lot of things that become more complicated — for instance, birthday parties. Gone are the days of princess and sailboat themes — big kids have their own agendas, and they're not always what mom had in mind. We've come up with 10 alternatives to the traditional birthday bash that are sure to appeal to your own special tween or teen. Party on!

01
Curtain Call

Curtain Call

If your child is into the performing arts, treat them to a night at the theater with a few special friends. It doesn't have to be Broadway! Check out the upcoming shows at your local performing arts venue, and find something that would be of interest to the younger set.

02
Slam Dunk

Slam Dunk

What could be more exciting for a tween or teenage sports fan than seeing their favorite team in the flesh? They'll have to be selective when it comes to the guest list, but the experience is sure to be a blast.

03
A Mani Pedi Party

A Mani Pedi Party

Gather your glam girl and her BFFs for a day at the spa (rather, the local nail salon). If there's an establishment that you frequent regularly, see if they'll work out a special deal for the partiers. Alternately, have your favorite nail tech set up shop in the comfort of your own home.

04
Create Something Special

Create Something Special

Paint your own pottery parties are a tried and true classic for crafty kids. Some spots will let you bring in your own food, drinks, and decor. If pottery's not your tween's thing, there are also businesses where you can paint canvases, tie-dye, or batik tees.

05
Hot Ticket

Hot Ticket

Concerts cost a fortune these days, so you probably won't be inviting your child's entire social circle. But if they're hopelessly devoted to a favorite group or performer, seeing them in person with a best friend or two will make for a birthday to remember.

06
Cooking Class Fun

Cooking Class Fun

Budding chefs will love getting hands-on experience in the kitchen. Find a restaurant or cooking school where you can host your get-together, hire a chef to come into your own home and teach a private class, or keep it easy and breezy with a DIY pizza party. Get your tween involved in the planning, giving consideration to their favorite kind of cuisine and making the party as thematic (coordinating music, invitations, and favors), or laid-back as they'd like.

07
#InstaBash

#InstaBash

If your tween's still down for a traditional birthday bash, we love the idea of an age-appropriate Instagram-themed party. The possibilities for personalization and photo fun are endless!

Source: Anders Ruff

08
Send Them on a Scavenger Hunt

Send Them on a Scavenger Hunt

Send a group of intrepid teens or tweens on a memorable adventure in the form of a scavenger hunt. Depending on the age group, and how comfortable they are with their surroundings, it could be around your neighborhood, town, or even city. Consider adding an adult "captain" to each team if it makes you feel more secure (just encourage them to hang back and let the kids take the lead).

09
Slumber Party
Thinkstock | Scott Griessel

Slumber Party

Load up on DVDs, snacks, and favorite board games . . . if you can handle losing a few hours of sleep, this is an easy, low-maintenance way to commemorate the birthday child's big day.

10
Hot Wheels!

Hot Wheels!

Send 'em out on the town (or, at least around the neighborhood) in serious style. Middle school-aged kids (boys and girls alike) will likely get a kick out of cruising in a stretch limo for an hour or two. You may be able to get a special deal at an off time or day of the week — shop around rates from a few local limousine companies.