Ask a three-year-old what theme they want and you’ll get one word, said very loudly. Ask a ten-year-old and you’ll get a PowerPoint. Kids’ taste changes fast, so we’ve sorted the themes that get booked most often by age rather than by boys and girls. Every child is different, and plenty of girls want dinosaurs and plenty of boys love unicorns.
Ages 1-3: soft, bright and familiar
Little ones love what they recognise. Characters from their favourite shows and gentle colours work best.
- Cocomelon and Baby Shark for the sing-along fans.
- Peppa Pig and Paw Patrol once they’re two or three.
- Wild One, Twinkle Twinkle Little Star and Sunshine Party for first birthdays.
Ages 4-7: big imaginations
This is peak theme-party age. Kids want to step into a world, not just look at a backdrop.
- Boys often pick Dino Party, Super Hero, Cosmic Dreams (space), Speedy (transport) and Under Construction.
- Girls often pick Unicorn, Barbie, Little Mermaid, Minnie Mouse and Candyland.
- Everyone loves Toy Story, our pirate theme and Vintage Carnival.
Ages 8-12: games, hobbies and a bit of cool
Older kids want a party their friends will think is cool. Games and hobbies win here.
- Minecraft, Roblox and Super Mario Bros for gamers.
- Party @ Hogwarts for readers (and the most photographed theme we do).
- MasterChef and Party Arty for kids who like to make things.
- Soccer Party for the sports-mad.
Stuck between two themes?
Pick the one your child talks about without being asked. If they’ve mentioned it at dinner three times this week, that’s your theme. And if it isn’t on our list, we can design a custom theme with matching décor, cake, invites and return gifts.
Browse all 55+ birthday themes with photos, or message us and we’ll suggest a few based on your child’s age and interests.
Quick answers
What are the most popular birthday themes for boys?
Dino Party, Super Hero, Cosmic Dreams (space), Speedy (transport) and Under Construction for younger boys, and Minecraft, Roblox, Super Mario Bros and Party @ Hogwarts for older boys.
What are the most popular birthday themes for girls?
Unicorn, Barbie, Little Mermaid, Minnie Mouse and Candyland for younger girls, and Party @ Hogwarts, MasterChef and Party Arty for older girls.
Can you create a custom birthday theme?
Yes. Little Celebrations designs custom themes with matching décor, cake, invites and return gifts if your child’s favourite isn’t on our list.
