Get ready to turn frosty fun into a birthday celebration with the second installment of January’s Party Playbook! This time, we’re embracing all things winter with a craft-focused birthday party that’s perfect for little creators and their chilly imaginations. With activities that are as festive as they are fun, this winter craft party will keep everyone entertained and warm, no matter the weather outside.

My daughter has a winter birthday, and hosting a large number of childen, indoors, in our home, seemed daunting. We hosted a winter craft birthday party for a large group of 7 year olds a couple years ago, and the activities below kept everyone engaged and excited; we had a blast!

Setting the Scene

Create a cozy winter wonderland with simple, themed decorations:

• Color Scheme: Stick to icy blues, whites, and silvers for a magical winter vibe.
• Decorations: Use snowflake garlands, faux snow, and twinkle lights to set the scene. A hot chocolate bar adds a festive touch and keeps guests warm.
• Craft Stations: Arrange separate tables or areas for each craft activity, clearly labeled with fun signs like “Snowflake Workshop” and “Frosting Fun.”

Creative Activities

The heart of this party is all about crafting. Here’s what to include:

1. Coffee Filter Watercolor Snowflakes:
   • Provide coffee filters and watercolor paints.
   • Have kids paint their filters in cool winter hues, then fold and cut them into snowflake shapes once dry.
   • Hang the finished snowflakes on a string for an instant winter wonderland display!
2. Winter-Themed Cookie or Cupcake Decorating:
   • Offer pre-baked cookies or cupcakes shaped like snowflakes, mittens, or snowmen.
   • Include frosting in white, blue, and silver, plus toppings like edible glitter, candy snowflakes, and sprinkles.
   • Encourage a little friendly competition for the most creative design.
3. Pipe Cleaner Bead Snowflakes:
   • Provide white or silver pipe cleaners and a selection of beads in wintry colors.
   • Show kids how to twist and bead their snowflakes to create personalized ornaments or keepsakes.
4. Prepared Winter Craft Kits
   • Set up simple DIY kits for kids to assemble, like Build-a-Snowman or Mini Winter Wreaths.
   • These kits double as a party activity and a take-home favor!

Cool Party Games

Add to the fun with a few winter-themed games:

• Snowball Toss: Use white beanbags or cotton “snowballs” and toss them into buckets labeled with different point values.
• Pin the Nose on the Snowman: A classic twist on pin the tail on the donkey.
• Snowflake Hunt: Hide paper snowflakes around the party area for a scavenger hunt.

Frosty Favors

Send guests home with their crafts, along with a small winter-themed goodie bag. Include items like mini hot chocolate kits, snowflake stickers, or small craft kits to keep the creativity going.

Stay tuned for Part 3 of January’s Party Playbook, where we’ll explore another exciting birthday theme: Spa Party! Until then, enjoy the crafts and celebrate the magic of winter!