Every year, somewhere around June, my kids start thinking about Halloween. Elaborate plans percolate and discussions turn to, “What are you going be this year?” For a long time, I’ve tried (without success) to convince my family to do something themed. All five of us as pirates? No go. Cowboys and cowgirls? No way. I even pitched Ghostbusters, Egyptians, Harry Potter, and Scooby Doo – all of which were quickly vetoed. This year though, I finally found a winner!
Over the summer, my kids and I went to see How to Train Your Dragon 2 and fell in love with the movie. The DreamWorks sequel is one of those priceless family experiences that enchants kids and parents alike. Set five years after the first hit film, Hiccup and Toothless are back in the year’s biggest and best animated movie. Once enemies, the now inseparable pair soar through the clouds, explore new worlds, and make you wish you could fly.
You can discover How to Train Your Dragon 2 by purchasing the Digital HD release on Amazon and catch the movie viewing party @DWAnimation on Twitter on Friday, October 24 at 8 p.m. EST/5 p.m. PST; and get ready to enjoy a movie that’s sure to become an instant family favorite (More info on Facebook.)
My kids and I were so enamored with the adventurous, animated romp, we decided to base our Halloween festivities on it this year, from family costumes to a full-blown fun-for-all party! Irresistible dragons, adorable sheep, spirited youngsters, and fantastic costumes galore – the inspiration is endless. Check out my top picks for a dragon-themed Halloween party:
*This post is sponsored by DreamWorks.
The Ultimate Dragon Halloween Party Step-by-Step
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Send Out Festive Invitations
Make everyone feel like a Hollywood VIP with these movie ticket-inspired, free downloadable invitations.
Photo: Rook No. 17
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Get Festive with Your Party Décor
Use cool decorations (like this 15-inch flying Toothless toy) and mix-and-match balloons with images of the movie's beloved characters to trick out your space. Create a festive, enchanted mood with mist machines, pops of black and red, and yellow streamers.
Photos: Black Dog Inc, Target, Amazon, Wholesale Party Supplies
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And Add Lots of Dragons!
Baby Nadder is one of my favorites from the film; if he were real, we'd definitely adopt him as a family pet! From Barf & Belch, the two-headed dragon, to Baby Gronckle, dragon figurines make the perfect party decorations.
Photo: HWTM
Photo: HWTM
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Choose a Fun Centerpiece
This heroes' training arena toy would be fun atop a buffet or snack table. Just be sure to keep little hands from snagging your centerpiece!
Photo: Target
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Serve Dragon-Inspired Eats
Easy-to-make deli skewers, deviled eggs, and other munchies will keep partiers well-fed and ready for more movie action throughout the evening. Use Dragon 2 plushies for an authentic touch.
Photo: Frog Prince Paperie
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Drink from Dragon Cups
These party cups from Etsy are a simple way to serve up cranberry juice, cider, and other goodies – and they double as take-home souvenirs.
Photo: LeilaBugs
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Don't Forget Dessert
Hookfang's Jelly is strawberry Jell-O in a glass -- easy to whip up for a crowd and youngsters will eat it up!
Photo: Hostess with the Mostess
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Dress Like Toothless
These wonderful dragon getups are a sure hit with the boys (left).
Little dragon divas can outfit themselves in a sleek, black hoodie, cute pair of black flats, and black leggings. Who knew dressing like a dragon could be so fashionable?!
Photos: Birthday Express, Wonder Costumes
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Party like Hiccup and Astrid
The characters in How to Train Your Dragon 2 know how to have a good time... no Halloween bash would be complete with some mini Hiccups and Astrids running around!
Photos: Spirit Halloween, Whyrll -
Get Guests in on the (Dragon) Action, Too!
Revelers who want to join in the fun can slip on a pair of these cool, handmade wings. Instant dragon garb!
Photo: Pipstar Pop
Photo: Pipstar Pop -
Set Up a DIY Dragon Station
After watching the movie, kids will want their own pet dragon. Set up a craft table filled with supplies. These fire-breathing dragons are easy to make and perfect for the occasion.
Photo: Sturdy for Common Things
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Make Your Own Sheep Toss
Hiccup and his friends competed in dragon races, including some hysterical sheep-tossing scenes. To DIY, decorate white bean bags or even plastic baseballs using black felt and glue-on eyes. Kids can toss their sheep through a hula hoop, corn hole, or into buckets.
Photo: Frog Prince Paperie -
Inspire Pint-Size Dragon Racers
For slightly older movie fans, making a dragon hobby horse is easy and endless fun! All you need is a cereal box, a stick, and some decorating supplies.
Photo: My Little 3 and Me -
Set Up a Scavenger Hunt
Keep kids occupied with a dragon-themed scavenger hunt. Make your own papier-mâché dragon eggs and fill them with small toys, candy, and other goodies.
Photo: Two Busy Blondes -
Set Up a Photo Booth
I love this simple DIY photo booth idea. Cut a flame shape out of foam core and use paint or markers to decorate it, then snap pictures of guests "breathing fire!"
Photo: Young House Love -
End on a Sweet Note
The only thing that can top all the sugar-coated trick-or-treating loot kids collect on Halloween is... more candy! This piñata is a definite must so party-goers can end their Halloween with a bang... and a sugar rush.
Photo: Amazon -
Pass Out Fun Favors
At the end of the evening, send kids home with some lasting mementoes of Hiccup, Toothless, and friends... the perfect way to say: "Goodnight, and sweet dragon dreams!"
Photo: Birthday Express
