Have a makeover slumber party.
A 13th birthday is a big deal to most girls and boys. It signals the move from child to teen. This birthday, while it should be noted and commemorated, does not have to cost a lot of money. Sit down with your child and come up with a party theme that she likes, and that she feels her friends will enjoy; remember, it's about celebrating her day, not spending a lot of money. Does this Spark an idea?
Slumber Party
Slumber parties are a tradition for many girls. Make your 13th birthday one huge slumber party. Invite 13 girls over for pizza, cake, movies and talking. Rent a few movies that everyone can enjoy, such as "Never Been Kissed," "Hairspray," "The Princess Bride" and "Ever After." Be prepared to play a few sleepover games, such as Truth or Dare or Chubby Bunny. For Chubby Bunny, purchase a bag of large marshmallows; hand a few out to each person playing. Each player starts by stuffing three or four marshmallows in their mouth and saying "Chubby Bunny." Those that are able to say it clearly stuff another marshmallow in their mouths; continue until there is only one person left.
Makeovers
Purchase inexpensive makeup at a dollar store or drug store. Be sure to get the basics, such as foundation, blush, eyeshadow and lipstick. If you have an older friend who is a makeup artist, ask her if she will come do the makeovers for free, or a very reduced rate. Be prepared to sit in a chair for a little bit while the artists do the makeup. Have fun music playing in the background so no one gets bored. If you don't have a friend who is skilled at doing makeup, attempt it yourself with your friends to help. Just having the correct makeup goes a long way in looking glamorous. Once everyone is ready, put on some fancy clothing and have a mini-fashion show. By using cheap makeup and clothes you already own, you can easily keep the cost under $100.
Parties for Boys
Set up a tent in the backyard and invite your son's friends over for a camp-out. Have them each bring a sleeping bag and pillow, as well as anything else they might need. Bring games out to the tent to play, have a few scary stories to tell, and play tag using flashlights in the dark. Be sure to leave a back door open so the boys can get into the house for the bathroom during the night. This is a very inexpensive idea if you already own the tent; if you don't have one, borrow one from a friend.
Video game marathons are big hits for pre-teen and teenage boys. Have the guests bring their own video games that you may not already own. Go for games that groups of people can easily play, such as music or racing games. Clear the space in front of the television so there is plenty of room, and provide pizza and snacks for the boys. The guests can sleep over, or have a time set for parents to come pick them up.
Both of these party ideas can be kept under $100, because the food is essentially the only cost.
Pool Parties
Pool parties are fun because they can be co-ed. For many, 13 signals the beginning of boy/girl birthday parties. Invite everyone to come in their bathing suits and set up everything outside. Purchase a few inflatable items, such as floats and beach balls. These are very inexpensive during the summer months, and can often even be purchased at dollar stores. Pull out your beach chairs, lounge chairs and towels for everyone to get some sun. Don't forget to provide a large bottle of sunscreen for guests who didn't come with any. Because the party hinges around the pool, the only costs are for inflatables -- if you don't already have some -- and food.
Food
Food often adds up to be the most expensive item for a party. Keep the cost down by doing it all yourself. Make your own pizza dough and purchase the cheese, sauce and pepperoni to go on top. Get all the guests to help add the toppings to the pizza; not only is this fun, but everyone gets something they like.
Burgers and hot dogs are cheap and cook up quickly on the grill. These are perfect for pool parties when everyone is going to eat outside anyway. Purchase several bottles of soda and provide fruit drinks and water. Make your own birthday cake or cupcakes; you can skip the ice cream if you wish, or just buy a large bucket of plain vanilla. With a reasonable number of guests, the party's cost will easily stay under $100.
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