There are plenty of epic 13th birthday party ideas out there, because let’s face it, 13 is a big milestone. When I turned 13, I remember thinking (and even saying to my friends), “I’m basically grown up! Like, I’m practically a full-on adult. For real.” Although the 13th year might not be as dramatic as I thought as a teen, it’s definitely a new stage of adolescence.
And, every big milestone deserves to be recognized with a celebration. Planning a birthday party for a teen can be tricky. They want to act mature, but they still have so much growing left to do, so the party should be sophisticated, but fun-filled and even a bit silly at times. I’ve rounded up the best 13th birthday party ideas for teens that are cool enough for the kids to brag about and fun enough to still appeal to their childlike side.
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13th Birthday Ideas Your Teen Will Love
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Glow Dance Party
Kids will light up the night whether they choose to dab, line dance, or Electric Slide their way across the dance floor.
Image: Successful Parenting
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Soda Bar
Teens love to sip the bubbly, so a soda party is bound to be a big hit as kids add syrups, ice cream, or squirts of lime to their concoctions.
Image: The Crafted Sparrow
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Football Ice Cream Sandwiches
A football-themed fête is perfect for a sporty bunch. Skip the cake, and opt for these ice cream sandwiches instead. They are easy to make and store ahead of time, too.
Image: The Celebration Shoppe
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Emoji Party
Teens feel all of the feelings, so an emoji party is the perfect way to usher in their 13th year. From desserts to selfie stations to gift bags to even slime, your kid and her friends will all LOL during this creative party.
Image: Bloom Designs
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Watercolor Theme
Floral details and art set the tone for a sweet (but still mature enough) and lively event. Bright floral arrangements and mini watercolor place settings are just a few of the details that make this special.
Image: Kara's Party Ideas
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Starbucks Dessert Bar
If your kiddo craves hot chocolate, iced tea infusions, and cake pops, then a Starbucks-inspired dessert table has his or her name all over it!
Image: Catch My Party
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Movie Night
Set the stage for a successful movie night party with classic movie snacks on customized trays, photo props, and clapboard keychains.
Image: Hej Doll
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Candy Bar
If soon-to-be teen kid loves candy, a Dylan's themed party screams NYC, not Willy Wonka.
Image: Mazel Moments
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Video Game Theme
If your teen has games on the brain, a play-a-thon between friends will earn high scores. Think remote control cookies, VIP player badges, a game truck, and more.
Image: Team Whitaker
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Superlative Photos
Turn traditional photo booth pics into a "Best Of" voting opportunity by framing images with scrapbook paper and jotting down nice things about the guests.
Image: Catch My Party
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Butterbeer
If you're young adult is knee-deep in all things Harry Potter, this recipe for Butterbeer is a must-have for the muggles at your Hogwarts bash. Hanging glass globes and a Hedwig centerpiece add the finishing touches.
Image: Cooking Classy
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Pancakes and Pajamas Sleepover
There's no sweeter way to end an epic sleepover bash than with fancy pancakes and matching pjs.
Image: Style Me Pretty
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Marquee Sign
The transition from tween to teen is so big, it deserves to be broadcast in lights.
Image: Hostess With The Mostess
