Christmas and a child\’s birthday are the two days a year that are often the most excitedly anticipated annual events of a kid\’s childhood. With these two special days a year come the promise of presents and gifts, food, friends, and family.

Birthdays especially can be exhilarating for children in Utah because of the often accompanying birthday party. A birthday party held in honor of a child\’s birthday can be one of the highlighted memories of a childhood.

Although it may sometimes seem like it, there is no direct correlation between the amount of money spent on a party and the amount of fun had at that party. So, in order to make the day a joyous one for you as well as for your child, decide now to not spend a large sum of money. This decision can be a difficult one to make, especially when your child\’s friend just had a very extravagant party last month. One of the quickest ways to fall into debt is by trying to keep up with the Joneses-even with their birthday parties.

Just because little Billy across the street had a petting zoo at his party does not mean that you should spend time and money looking for something better for your child\’s party. Furthermore, it\’s a good idea to follow the same rule in regards to yourself. From year to year, you will want to make your child\’s parties memorable, and doing more every year will seem like the best way to do that. Do not fall in to this trap!

You can be your own worst enemy when it comes to spending. Remember each year to plan a reasonable budget and to not spend more than you\’ve allotted. It is possible to make your child\’s birthday party fun and memorable even without spending a ton of cash. Doing so, however, may require a little more effort and creativity on your part.

You may be inclined to search around for a professional entertainer who can be hired to perform at the party. While this person would certainly be qualified to complete the task, there are probably others, a little closer to home, who can be called upon to help you. Friends or family members may have hidden talents that can be great for performances and activities at a birthday party. Take some time to think about all the people you know.

The location of the party may also be affected by the theme of the party, should there be a theme selected. Choosing a theme for the party can make all other preparations and plans not only easier to come up with but also fun for the planner as they can use their creative abilities to invent unique ideas fitting the theme.

For example, if the party has a space theme than all following plans can be made around that theme including the decorations, plates, activities, and, perhaps most important to the attendees, the design of the birthday cake. To continue with the example of how establishing a theme will help to generate ideas, consider where the theme can take you.

Even if there aren\’t any in the forthcoming weeks or months, it never hurts to be ready. Additionally, some ice cream brands may be offered at discount prices. Pay attention to sales that are going on and take advantage of them. When it comes to decorations, prices can be especially steep.

Purchase a few important items that have a theme print on them. You can then coordinate other, less expensive decorations with the theme. Again, creativity is a must here. Do not feel that you must buy all the themed decorations.

In all honesty, most kids probably won\’t notice whether the tablecloth or banners exactly match the themed paper plates from which they and their friends are eating their cake. Instead, they will be supremely happy to be eating lots of sugar and opening presents. You can find other ways to decrease the cost of your child\’s party. Just use a little imagination and, before you know it, you\’ll be throwing a spectacular and inexpensive party.