Sweet 16 Party Games & Activities

Celebrate your 16th birthday with exciting games and activities.

Turning 16 is an exciting time in any teenager's life. You are finally old enough to drive and are well on your way to becoming an adult. Celebrate your 16th birthday in style. While you want your guests to have fun and be entertained, it's your party and a celebration of your life, so do what you love most.

Host a Pool Party

Pool parties will keep guests occupied for hours.

If your birthday falls during the warmer months, a pool party does not require much planning and will keep your guests entertained for hours. Get all your friends outside in the sunshine and play some of your favorite music. Hire a DJ if it's within your budget. Serve snacks by the pool. Plan a few water games, like Marco Polo or a race, in case your friends get restless. If it's warm enough, host your pool party at night and string some outdoor lights.

Have a Bonfire

Don't forget the marshmallows!

If the weather is cool, have a large bonfire. Play your favorite tunes on a portable MP3 player and docking station. Background noise will make your guests feel more comfortable in case there are times when no one is talking. Bring a guitar with you; someone is bound to know a few simple songs. Prepare the ingredients for s'mores, including a stick or long skewer to roast your marshmallows. Hot dogs are another simple food to prepare over a fire. Put some drinks in a cooler and lay out some blankets in case it gets chilly.

Games

Play outdoor hide-and-go-seek.

If your party is indoors and you need some games to entertain your guests, have a no-mirror makeover contest. Split your party into teams of two. One guest will put makeup on her own face while another guides her with words only. If you have girls and boys at your party, play outdoor hide-and-go-seek. Set firm boundaries and give each guests a small flashlight if they want it. Specify a safe zone and home base. This game can go on for as long as you like. Scavenger hunts are also a safe bet for hours of entertainment. Assign a total of 16 items to hunt for in honor of your birthday.

Spa Night

Have a spa night with your friends.

While there are many different themes to choose from for a Sweet 16 birthday party, a spa night is a fantastic theme if you are having a girls-only party. If your party is co-ed, hold off on the spa portion until your male guests leave. Place cucumbers over your eyes, coat your hair in a thick conditioning cream, lather a facial mask over your face and relax. You can do manicures as well. Play soft background music for a calming effect. You can serve some finger foods during this time in case your guests are hungry. Play some card games or board games while your mask sets.

References

• Party Ideas Galore: 16th Birthday Games and Activities
• Superlative Events: Sweet Sixteen Themes and Party Ideas

Resources

• Sweet 16 Party Ideas: Sweet 16 Party Ideas for that Once in a Lifetime Celebration