Sleepovers (also known as slumber parties) are a cherished tradition for kids and teens, offering a perfect opportunity to bond with friends and create lasting memories. Whether you’re planning a birthday celebration or just a fun weekend get-together, here are some exciting sleepover party ideas to make your event unforgettable.
Choosing A Theme
When planning your sleepover party, you might want to choose a theme to add an extra layer of excitement to your sleepover. Some popular options include:
- Movie marathon night (indoor or outdoor – weather permitting)
- Spa and beauty party
- Outdoor camping (even in the back garden)
- Fantasy – e.g. Superhero, Witches and Wizards
- Favorite book/movie/play character costume party
- Seasonal – e.g. Christmas, Easter, Valentines, Halloween, etc
- Cultures around the world
- Hawaii/Space/Sci-Fi/Horror/ Western themes
Setting the Scene
Create a cozy, relaxed atmosphere for your sleepover:
- Build a blanket fort in the living room
- Set up a tent indoors for a camping vibe
- Create a comfy floor bed with air mattresses and sleeping bags
- Provide bean bags for relaxed comfort
- Use fairy lights for a magical ambiance
Safety and Comfort
Before we discuss entertainment activities, remember to make sure everyone is safe and are in a comfortable environment:
- Discuss any allergies or dietary restrictions beforehand
- Have extra pillows, blankets, and toiletries available
- Set clear rules and boundaries for the night
- Ensure proper adult supervision, especially for younger children
- Nervous parents may appreciate a call with their child and/or some updates during the sleepover
- Confirm drop off and collection dates and times beforehand
Keeping Everyone Entertained
Keeping the guests entertained is the key to a memorable sleep over.
DIY Crafts
Engage your guests in creative activities such as:
- Making friendship bracelets
- Tie-dye e.g. shirts, scrunchies, hankies, towels, etc
- Creating dream catchers
- Painting rocks or canvases
- Origami
Games Galore
Keep the energy high with fun games like:
- Truth or Dare
- Charades
- Hang man
- Scavenger hunt around the house
- You could make this more interesting by adding clues
- Mystery and Detective Games
- e.g. Cluedo
- Board game tournament
- Examples include Monopoly, Scrabble, Snakes and Ladders
- Computer/video games
- Consider multiplayer games such as Mario and Mario Kart so that you include more of your group
- You may want to incorporate physical exercise such as a sports games or maybe a dance-off
- Card Games
- Examples include Solitaire, Poker, Bridge and Go Fish
- Jenga
- Klask / Foosball
- Table tennis
Culinary Adventures
Get everyone involved in preparing snacks or meals:
- Pizza making with a range of toppings
- Cupcake, cookie or flapjack making & decorating
- Build-your-own sundae bar
- Fruit kebab making
- Bake-off competition – e.g. cakes, pastries, bread
- Make sure you’re stocked up with popcorn and chips for snacking
- If outside you could toast marshmallows on an open fire
- Alternatively, put your feet up and order a take-away!
Making Your Sleepover a Success
- Capture the Memories: Take lots of photos or videos and remember to share them with your guests
- Plan Ahead: Make sure you have enough food, drinks, and activities to keep everyone entertained.
- Set Ground Rules: Especially for younger guests, establish guidelines for bedtime, screen time, and noise levels
- Be Inclusive: Consider dietary restrictions, allergies, and preferences when planning snacks and activities.
Breakfast Ideas & Wrap Up
End the sleepover on a high note with a special breakfast:
- Pancake bar with various toppings
- Make-your-own smoothie station
- Breakfast burrito assembly line
- French toast sticks with dipping sauces
For more food ideas, be sure to check out our sweet 16 party ideas article.
Remember to thank your guests for showing up and, if the sleepover was a success, suggest another when convenient in the future. Don’t be afraid to ask them if they had fun, what went well and what could be improved for next time.
Hopefully the ideas covered in this article has given you some inspiration with the sleepover party you’re planning. By incorporating these ideas into your sleepover party, you’re sure to create an event that your guests will talk about for years to come. Remember, the key to a successful sleepover is to focus on fun, friendship, and making memories together.