15 Special 4th Birthday Party Ideas

Plan an un-FOUR-gettable celebration.

Sadiyah Qureshi

Contributor

Throwing a 4th birthday party for your little one is such an exciting experience because they’re reaching the age of making special core memories. By planning fun activities, serving up delicious snacks, choosing themes and decorations, there are plenty of ways to make your little one’s special day one they’ll never forget. 

To plan a unique 4th birthday party, it’s important to be up to date on the latest kids' party trends, follow a checklist, and know what theme ideas your child will love. We’re here to help you get started and throw an exciting and memorable birthday party to celebrate the arrival of the fabulous four!

Here are 15 unique 4th birthday party ideas:

Superheros

Superheroes - 4th birthday party ideasPhoto: Africa Studio/shutterstock.com

Grab your capes! A superhero theme allows kids to imagine themselves as their favorite superheroes. It's a fun theme and provides plenty of opportunities to unleash some creativity, whether that be through decorations, games, food, or costumes. Plus, who doesn’t want to fly with superpowers? Choose between the Marvel and DC Universe for inspiration.

Find Costumed Characters

Carnival Theme

Carnival theme - 4th birthday party ideasPhoto: Christin Lola/shutterstock.com

Step right up and create a festive atmosphere for the kids with an unforgettable carnival theme. From vibrant decorations and playful games, to delectable treats and colorful balloons, this extravaganza promises non-stop fun for all attendees. With whimsical circus themed activities, such as face painting, balloon twisting, and carnival games, guests of all ages will be captivated by the enchanting atmosphere.

Score! I'm Four

Score! I'm Four - 4th birthday party ideasPhoto: Africa Studio/shutterstock.com

If your kiddo has an interest in sports, you’ll definitely want to incorporate it into the birthday party! Set up an area with a basketball hoop, soccer goal, whatever your four year old loves. You could also include mini-sized sports equipment and outdoor games like badminton, frisbee, and hula hoops to keep the little ones entertained. 

If you want sports to carry over into the overall theme, consider hosting a tailgate theme party complete with burgers, chicken nuggets, and fried mac and cheese bites.

Movie Night

Movie night - 4th birthday party ideasPhoto: Tatiana Gordievskaia/shutterstock.com

From decorations to games, you can tailor the celebration to your child's favorite movie. Set up a popcorn machine and movie screen so children can watch their favorite movie while spending time with their friends. Make some movie-inspired props and decorations to add to the fun and excitement. Other ideas could include creating movie-style photo booths, trivia games, and a red-carpet arrival. The possibilities are endless!

Some of our favorite movies that kids love are Toy Story, Moana, and Frozen.

Jump “Four” Joy

Jump four joy - 4th birthday party ideasPhoto: Joaquin Corbalan P/shutterstock.com

Watch your kiddo and their friends bounce, jump, and play in a giant, colorful playground, obstacle course, or water slide. Bounce houses and other party inflatables will keep the little ones entertained for hours, providing a safe and energetic outlet for their energy.

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Pirates

Pirates - 4th birthday party ideasPhoto: Dado Photos/shutterstock.com

Let your little pirates sail away in search of adventures and fun with a pirate themed birthday party. Create a treasure map to guide guests around your party area, and have the kids search for buried treasure.

Set up activities like an “X” marks the spot game and a treasure hunt. Craft pirate themed decorations and props, and don’t forget to provide party guests with their own pirate gear, such as eye patches and bandanas. Serve up fun and tasty pirate themed snacks and beverages fit for a real buccaneer. 

Live Animals

Live animals - 4th birthday party ideasVendor: Zovargo: We Bring the Zoo To YOU!

Watch your child’s face light up with excitement as they interact and learn about their favorite animals up close. From furry rabbits to slithering reptiles and friendly farm animals, this unique and educational experience is perfect for a safari or zoo theme. 

With trained handlers ensuring safety and providing informative entertainment, this animal encounter will leave the children with a deep appreciation and respect for the animal kingdom. Get ready for a wild adventure and a birthday party like no other!

Find Animals for Parties

Reach “Four” the Stars

Reach four the stars - 4th birthday party ideasPhoto: popcorner/shutterstock.com

An outer space themed fourth birthday party is sure to create a galaxy of fun! Set the scene with decorations such as planets, stars, and alien cut-outs. You could have custom-made space helmets, rockets, and even an inflatable spaceship for photo opportunities. As far as activities go, you can have a star gazing station, a telescope craft project, or even an alien scavenger hunt to tie the whole theme together.

Photo Booth

Photo booth - 4th birthday party ideasPhoto: Aleksandra Suzi/shutterstock.com

Capture the joy and laughter of your child's birthday celebration with a photo booth extravaganza! Watch as the little ones strike silly poses, don colorful props, and create lasting memories. Photo booths provide endless entertainment, allowing kids to express their creativity and bond with friends as they snap hilarious pictures. With instant photo prints, each child can take home a personalized keepsake from the party. So, grab a hat, put on a funny face, and let the photo booth be the highlight of your child's birthday bash!

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Ocean Adventures

Ocean adventures - 4th birthday party ideasPhoto: alexkich/shutterstock.com

To set the scene for an ocean adventure, start with decorations like colorful fish balloons, starfish banners, or beach themed tablecloths for an under the sea atmosphere. Add some other immersive touches like beach balls, palm trees, or seashells, and even a sandbox or kiddie pool so they can feel like they’re on the beach. 

If your child is a fan of mermaids, easily incorporate Mermaidcore inspired party ideas for this sea celebration.

Magician

Magician - 4th birthday party ideasPhoto: fotosparrow/shutterstock.com

Prepare to be amazed and enchanted as a magician brings the magic of wonder to your child's birthday party! Watch in awe as the magician performs mind-boggling tricks, leaving the little ones captivated and filled with awe. Get ready for a show full of enchantment, laughter, and magical moments!

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Tea Party

Tea party - 4th birthday party ideasPhoto: LightField Studios/shutterstock.com

Indulge in a charming and delightful tea party at your child's birthday celebration! Set up an enchanting tea table adorned with dainty tea sets, colorful linens, and pretty flower arrangements. Little ones can dress up in their finest attire and enjoy a selection of delicious finger sandwiches, scones, and sweet treats. 

With gentle music playing in the background, the children can sip on their favorite tea (or delightful fruit punch) while partaking in delightful tea party games. This elegant and whimsical affair will create cherished memories and a sense of sophistication for the young guests.

Face Painter

Face painter - 4th birthday party ideasPhoto: Tomsickova Tatyana/shutterstock.com

Add an extra splash of color and creativity to your child's birthday party with a talented face painter! Watch as the children's faces light up with excitement as they transform into their favorite characters, animals, or dazzling designs. 

The face painter will bring their artistic talents to the party, creating a magical experience for each child. From whimsical butterflies to fierce superheroes, the face painter will leave a trail of smiles and laughter, making the birthday celebration truly unforgettable.

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Bonjour to Four

Bonjour to four - 4th birthday party ideasPhoto: stock_studio/shutterstock.com

Transform the venue into a French inspired wonderland, with Eiffel Tower decorations, pastel colors, and charming Parisian accents. Engage the children in fun activities like painting their own mini Eiffel Towers, tasting delicious French treats like croissants and macarons, and even booking a professional mime. This enchanting celebration will transport everyone to the magical streets of Paris and create cherished memories for years to come.

I Scream “Four” Ice Cream

I scream four ice cream - 4th birthday party ideasPhoto: LeManna/shutterstock.com

Transform your venue into a sweet wonderland with colorful decorations, ice cream cone balloons, and an ice cream truck-inspired backdrop. Set up a DIY ice cream station, allowing the little ones to choose their favorite flavors and toppings to create their own delicious sundaes. 

Engage them in fun activities like a blindfolded taste-testing challenge or a "build your own ice cream cone" race. With the delightful aroma of ice cream in the air and smiles on everyone's faces, this party is sure to be a scoop-tacular hit!

Find more kids party ideas here on The Bash.