Unique 13th Birthday Party Ideas Your Just-Turned Teenager Will Love

These creative 13th birthday party ideas are all worthy of your newly minted teenager – read on to spark inspiration for themes, fun activities and unique food!

Turning thirteen is a huge milestone in any child’s life – marking the end of their tween years, and automatically turning them into a full-blown teenager. And for such a momentous occasion, their 13th birthday party should be one for the memory books.

To elevate some of the pressure of coming up with an epic teenage-worthy party, we’ve pulled together some of the most unique 13th birthday party ideas that your new teen will surely approve.

Whether they’re looking to throw a huge bash with a long guest list, or would prefer a smaller get-together with just their closest friends, these 13th birthday party ideas will provide plenty of inspiration for their special celebration.

Scroll through these ideas with your new teenager so you can join forces to create a 13th birthday party that reflects their interests, personality and overall “vibe” they’re looking for.

From 13th birthday party themes, to fun activities and food (Milkshake Bar anyone?!), you’ll be sure to find plenty of ideas to spark your creative juices, ultimately making planning a breeze.

Pin for when you need the best 13th birthday party ideas!

13th Birthday Party Themes

Gone are the days when you can rely on your child’s favorite TV characters to guide your birthday party theme. But having an overarching theme is still a great way to provide a cohesive feel to your party. It can help guide everything, from decorations and activities, to games and party favors.

To help you find the perfect one, we’ve rounded up some of the most unique 13th birthday party themes, and included plenty of photos for added inspiration. All of them have a more grown-up feel and received the thumbs up from our panel of teenagers.

No matter which one you end up selecting, having a singular focus for your 13-year-old’s special day will make your party really shine. Keep scrolling to see them all!

13th Birthday Themes With “Teen”, “Teenager” or 13

We love these themes for a 13th birthday because they all highlight how special their 13th year is as they turn from a tween into a teen. It’s the only time they’ll have this new “label”, so why not shout it loud and proud!

Vibin’ Thrivin’ & Thirteen

Create a groovy boho vibe with a muted, neutral color scheme, fresh flowers, and bohemian inspired details like feathers, fringe and dream-catchers. A low table with pillows fits the theme perfectly, and allows you and your friends to gather for food and conversation.

Photo source & inspiration links: After Luna Studio, 100 Layer Cakelet, Kara’s Party Ideas, The Little Bear Cubs, @wildestdreamspartyco, @papergardenxoxo, @sugar_rush_event_hire

Official Teenager

It doesn’t get more to the point than this! Turning 13 means you’re an official teenager, so shout it from the rooftops, and include it in your décor with a fun sign, wear it on a T-shirt, and display it on your cake.

Photo source & inspiration links:Just Top It, @paradise_eventosfey, @lovekennedygrace, @arafahanin, @mommie2lia_n_kay, @our.family.of5

From Tween to Teen / OMG, he’s 13! / OMG UR A TEENAGER

Celebrate the transition from Tween to Teen with some fun teenage abbreviations – the OMG UR A TEENAGER balloons will speak their language while marking this momentous occasion.

Photo source & inspiration links: The Paper Blossom Shop, @lavitadialynne

Teen Queen / The Queen is 13

For those teenage girls that want to be crowned queen for the day, use plenty of crown motifs, metallics and bling!

Photo source & inspiration links: Hostess with the Mostess, Zazzle, @greaterworksstudio

Teenage Dream / A Teen’s Dream

Take inspiration from Katy’s Perry hit song, “Teenage Dream”, and decorate with all the colors of the rainbow. Or bring together all of your newly minted teen’s favorite things to create their very own dream world.

Photo source & inspiration links: Party Doll Mania, Hostess with the Mostess, Pretty My Party, @dreamluxuryevents

HBD #13

Highlight your teen’s texting “language” with this “Happy Birthday” abbreviation, or speak to their social media savviness with hashtag #13. Couple these with their favorite colors for a party that’s personalized and right on trend.

Photo source & inspiration links: Hostess with the Mostess, Oriental Trading

Lucky #13

Number 13 often gets a bad rap, so why not flip that superstition on its head while celebrating all your teen’s blessings with a “Lucky #13” theme. Decorate with 4-leaf clovers, rainbows, and horseshoes with a fun green and gold color scheme.

Photo source & inspiration links: Cher Can Do It, Kara’s Party Ideas & 2, Catch My Party, Inspired By This, Oh Happy Day

13th Birthday Party Themes for Girls

If your soon-to-be 13-year-old daughter gravitates towards all things fashion, pink, florals or girl power, have them browse through these creative 13th birthday themes for girls (but of course don’t let that stop your son from using them too!)

Suite Dreams 13

Take your sleepover to the next level by booking a hotel suite for you and a small group of friends. Keep it local or head to your nearest big city for a fun night out. Make sure you take advantage of all the hotel perks – swim in the pool, get a spa treatment and order breakfast in bed! Custom pillowcases or robes are a cute and useful party favor.

Photo source & inspiration links: Catch My Party, Jenny’s Cookies

Fashion Swap / Fashion Show

This unique fashion swap/show 13th birthday party idea is perfect for any budding fashionista. There are several different ways you could structure it, including:

Have each girl bring a few items of clothing (or accessories) that they want to swap. Hang up items and girls can “shop” for new-to-them pieces.
Head to your local thrift shop and pick up some fun pieces before the party. Girls can select items to make an outfit, and then have a fashion show.
Buy some fabric and embellishments, set up a sewing machine (or hot glue station!) and let guests create their own “couture” outfit that they can rock for the night.

Photo source & inspiration links: Kara’s Party Ideas

Floral / Spring Garden / Backyard Picnic

Transport guests into a beautiful spring garden with fresh flowers, pastel colors, and chic picnic set-up. We love the idea of having a “Flower Bar” where guests can make their own bouquets in a small vase and take it home as a party favor.

Photo source & inspiration links: Kara’s Party Ideas, Begonia Rose Co, @coastalpicnicandco

Who Run the World…Girls! / Girl Power

Invite your Girl Gang to the ultimate birthday party of female empowerment. It’s the perfect way to celebrate entering into a stage of more independence, but also can strengthen the bonds with their girlfriends.

Photo source & inspiration links: Kara’s Party Ideas, Karson Butler Events, Inspired By This

Mean Girls

Guests will think this 13th birthday party theme that pays homage to the teen-classic, Means Girls, is “so fetch”. Incorporate all of the iconic quotes into your decor, and create a cozy place to watch the movie where your friends CAN sit with you!

Photo source & inspiration links: Oriental Trading, Sweet Visions Bakery, @daledalemty, @kidstime_events

Disco Cowgirl / “Let’s Go Girls” / “Boots and Bling”

How fun is this 13th birthday party theme where sequins and cowboy boots collide?! The juxtaposition of the bling with the laid-back country vibe will make for an epic celebration. Ask guests to dress for the occasion, or provide cowgirl hats upon arrival.

Photo source & inspiration links: Scottsdale Bachelorette

Barbie Party

If your teen still has a soft-spot for the iconic dolls, turn them into a life-sized version with this fun Barbie themed party with teenage flair.

Photo source & inspiration links: @moonbirdevents, Kara’s Party Ideas, @greaterworksstudio

Spa Party

Treat your guests to a spa-themed party where you supply everything needed for facials (sheet masks are super easy!), manicures and pedicures. You could even incorporate a makeover station, or make your own sugar scrub or bath bomb to take home as a party favor.

Photo source & inspiration links: Something Turquoise, @omnummy, Pop Sugar, Bird’s Party, Chelsea’s Messy Apron

Pajama Party /Sleepover Slumber Party

Invite your best friends over for a slumber party where guests arrive in their pajamas – definitely one of the most popular 13th birthday party ideas!

We’ve got hundreds of sleepover party ideas including crafts, favors, party games and food creations over at our popular post: 100+ Fun Things To Do At a Sleepover. Check it out, and try to get a little shuteye!

Photo source & inspiration links: Party Pinching, Style Me Pretty, Studio DIY

Mod Tutti Frutti

Make a colorful statement and celebrate entering into the teenage years with a modern take on the “Tutti Frutti” theme. Incorporate fruits with bold colors for a playful feel that just screams happy!

Photo source & inspiration links: Kara’s Party Ideas 1 & 2

70s Disco / Floral Disco / Roller Disco Derby “Just Roll With It”

Get groovy with a retro disco-themed party with or without the roller skates! Decorate with metallics, neon colors and as many disco balls as you can find. Then turn on the tunes and have a dance party!

Photo source & inspiration links: Kara’s Party Ideas, The Party Teacher, Black Twine, Sprinkled with Pink Shop

13th Birthday Party Themes For Boys or Girls

We’ll gathered even more 13th birthday party ideas, and this time, these themes are gender neutral – so they’ll work equally well for your teenage son or daughter. They’re bound to find the one that best fits their personality with this list of unique themes.

S’nores & S’mores

Amp up a backyard campout with this fun “S’nores and S’mores” theme. Ask your friends to bring their sleeping bags and pillows, or go all-out and hire a company that specializes in “glamping” for a much cushier experience. Either way, make sure to have a small fire pit or table top flame to make and enjoy some yummy s’mores.

Indoor Movie Night

Make your movie night one worthy of turning 13 with fun decorations (your teen’s name in lights!), and a concession stand stocked with popcorn, candy and soda. And if movies aren’t your thing, binge watch a Netflix series instead!

Photo source & inspiration links: Moms and Munchkins, @katescakes02

Outdoor Movie Night

Alternatively, take your movie night outside for an epic night under the stars. Set-up a screen/projector and create a lounge zone with lots of cozy blankets and pillows, then snuggle up with your besties while you watch the movie of your choice. A “charcuterie” board full of snacks, candy and popcorn is perfect for a small group to graze, or provide a concession table for refills.

Photo source & inspiration links: Hostess with the Mostess 1, 2 & 3, @Confetti Clique, The HoneyBee, Press Print Party, Beijos Events, Unoriginal Mom

Favorite Things

One of the most unique 13th birthday party ideas channels Oprah’s famous “Favorite Things” list. You can structure the party a few different ways, including:

Purchase some of your all-time favorite items and set them up on a table. Describe the items to your guests and provide them with a shopping basket/bag. Shop in rounds so everyone picks one item, and then once everyone is finished selecting, pick the next, and so on.
Ask guests to bring a few of their current “favorite thing” (within a certain dollar amount) and then swap with others. Everyone will leave with new items to try.

Photo source & inspiration links: Jenny’s Cookies, The Dating Divas, Kara’s Party Ideas, Living in Yellow, Fantabulosity

Emoji

Celebrate with the fun little icons your 13-year-old uses to communicate their emotions online – emojis! From heart-eyes to poop(!), have them pick their favorites to display on the decorations and treats.

Photo source & inspiration links: Catch My Party, Pretty My Party,Emoji Cake, Kara’s Party Ideas, Oriental Trading, At Home With Natalie, Twinkle Twinkle Little Party

Glow-in-the-Dark / Neon

Turn out the lights for one of our favorite 13th birthday party ideas: a glow-in-the-dark party! Ask your guests to come dressed in neon clothing or set-up a “Glow Bar” where they can choose some fun glow-in-the-dark accessories to wear. Decorate with glow sticks, fluorescent colors and place a few black lights around your party area to make everything glow!

Photo source & inspiration links: Kara’s Party Ideas, Oriental Trading, Cake Central, Zazzle

Color Party

Greet your guests with a white t-shirt, socks and a pair of inexpensive sunglasses to don for the main event: a colored powder throwing party! Order a rainbow of different colored powder, head outside, and then let the kids go wild tossing the powder into the air and at each other. While it certainly creates a mess, the memories are well worth it. Make sure to take a group photo before and after the event!

Photo source & inspiration links: Hollyhocks & Honeybees, Color Blaze, Little Halo J

Sneaker Ball / Nike Bash

We love the idea of throwing a “Sneaker Ball” where kids come dressed up, but must wear sneakers – the best combination of glam and comfort! Or simply celebrate the love your teen has of Nike (or sneakers in general) by integrating them into the decorations and desserts.

Photo source & inspiration links: Thornberry Creations, BEA Party Ideas, Fun Pick Store, Bob Gail, @humbleafrican473events, @cafecitoevents, @eccasioncakepops, @eventdecorbykay

Retro Surf / Surf’s Up

For all the surf loving dudes and dudettes, this retro themed surfing party will be right up their wave. Create a custom surfboard design station, fun wave-themed treats, and bonus points for hosting on the beach where they can actually hang ten with their friends.

Photo source & inspiration links: Catch My Party,Inspired By This, 100 Layer Cakelet, Catch My Party, Zazzle, Oh My Darling

Flashback to the 80’s / 90’s

Invite your guests to travel back in time to your decade of choice and celebrate with all the coolest fads from that era. Embrace the nostalgia by dressing the part (scrunchies, neon or acid wash jeans anyone?!), blast music from the timeframe, and play games like Pacman or MASH!

Photo source & inspiration links: At Home With Natalie,Club Crafted, Inspired by This, @ollie.the.dancer, Catch My Party, Kara’s Party Ideas

Frappy Birthday

For teens who are Starbucks crazy, this “Frappy Birthday” party is perfection! Whether you take a small group to Starbucks to order their favorite drinks, or create an at-home coffee/smoothie bar experience, teens absolutely love this party idea. And yes, we recommend going with decaf!

Photo source & inspiration links: Catch My Party, Elle’s Paper Boutique, A Cup Full of Sass, @tinys_tasty_treats

TikTok

If your 13-year-old knows all the latest TikTok dances and challenges, incorporate the teen-favorite app into their party theme with the TikTok logo and a black, pink and aqua color scheme. Play trending music during the gathering and you could even have guests learn a dance or try the latest challenge.

Photo source & inspiration links: Pretty My Party,Kara’s Party Ideas, @nafeesavayani, @cairoscustomevents, @lovekatiekakes

YouTube

If YouTube is more your child’s jam, use a black, white and red color scheme, and make them the star of their very own 13th birthday “channel”.

Photo source & inspiration links: Pretty My Party, @nastya.odnovol

Sports

Got a sports enthusiast as your birthday boy or girl? Host a party centered around their sport(s) of choice! We love that this idea can be easily customized, and your child doesn’t even have to play a sport – create a theme around their favorite professional sports team instead!

Photo source & inspiration links: Catch My Party,@goldentouchatl, @moonbirdevents, @exquisiteimagesphotographyllc, @bakedblessings, @memorieswithchristinanecole, @charmingpetiteevents, @cafecitoevents, @findmyeventplanner

Pool Party

If you’re lucky enough to have a pool in your backyard and a warm-weather birthday, a pool party is a must! Instruct your friends to bring their bathing suits and towels and enjoy a day of lounging in the sun and splashing in the water. Have plenty of fun pool floats on hand, a stocked drink cooler, and serve up some yummy frozen treats. Just don’t forget to provide sunscreen!

Photo source & inspiration links: @emmacampagnucci, @decorandoando.mia

Fresh Prince / Princess

Invite your friends to “chill out” at a Fresh Prince (or Princess!) party, complete with all the old school 90’s flair: boom boxes, chains and neon colors!

Photo source & inspiration links: Catch My Party & 2, Party Slate, Mey’s Sweets & Treats, Hostess with the Mostess

Beach Picnic

Have a beach close by? Take full advantage of your location by hosting your new teenager’s thirteenth birthday celebration with a fun day in the sun and picnic on the sand. Keep it relaxed with a few blankets and brought-from-home food spread, or go all-out and hire an event company to create an epic set-up with low tables, umbrellas, and comfy seating.

Photo source & inspiration links: The Beach Picnic Co., @coastalpicnicandco, @carteechaos

“Level 13” Video Game Tournament / Truck

Power up to Level 13 by creating a gaming inspired party where your teen can play all their favorite video games head-to-head with their friends. Create your own at-home tournament, or rent a Video Game Truck that will allow your birthday crew to test new games and gaming systems…and will get them out of the house!

Photo source & inspiration links: Hostess with the Mostess, @miamipartyballoons, @askmeforaballoon, @cinderellas.events, @amynepastries

“Take 13” / Hollywood / Red Carpet

Roll out the red carpet and create a star-studded premiere for your VIP guests. Serve a buffet of teen-friendly finger foods and fun fizzy mocktails, watch a movie, or simply dance and sing the night away.

Photo source & inspiration links: @balloongift.ca,@flyawaypineapple

Scavenger Hunt

Make a fun scavenger hunt the main event of your 13th birthday party with these fun ideas:

Video or Photo Scavenger Hunt: Divide guests into teams and give them a list of things to find or silly tasks to perform. Whichever team checks off the most items on the list (with photos or videos as proof!) is the winner. This can be customized to be performed in and around your home, neighborhood, or town center.
Mall Scavenger Hunt: Bring the hunt to the mall where teams need to obtain items or take photos of certain things: think along the lines of getting a free perfume sample, picking up a ketchup packet at the food court, or taking a picture trying on a pair of sunglasses. Just make sure you lay down some ground rules before heading off, or have an adult stay close-by if you think things might get a little too rowdy!

Photo source & inspiration links: Darling Darleen, Tidy Lady, i Save A 2 Z, Wonder Mom Wannabe, Ice Breaker Ideas, Southern Plate, Momma Teen, Mom of 6

Teen Cuisine / Cooking Party

Host a cooking-themed party where you give guests a variety of ingredients to prepare a simple meal (perhaps their own dinner?!), or make it a Chopped-like challenge. You could even take an online class together or simply follow along with a YouTube tutorial.

Pizza Party

Provide guests with fresh dough and set-up a fun station with all the toppings – from sauce and cheese to prosciutto and fresh herbs. Cook the pizzas and dinner is served!

Photo source & inspiration links: Lauren Conrad,This Familee, Living Locurto, Parties 365

Cupcake / Cake / Cookie Decorating

To add a fun activity to your 13th birthday gathering, enlist your guests to make their own dessert with a cupcake, cake or cookie decorating station. They’ll have a blast experimenting with different frostings, fillings and toppings. Your guests are guaranteed to leave happy!

Photo source & inspiration links: Make Life Lovely, Catch My Party, Sweetopia

More 13th Birthday Party Ideas to Consider

Want even more fun 13th birthday party ideas? First, we highly suggest popping over to Epic Sweet 16 Party Ideas, as many of the themes we highlighted can easily be used for 13 year olds as well.

Or consider incorporating one of these fun themes into your celebration:

Masquerade Ball: Think beaded necklaces, Mardi Gras and masks!
Luau/Tropical: Use Hawaiian details, flowers and grass skirts.
Murder Mystery Party: Try and find out who dunnit!
Toga Party: Transform white bedsheets into togas for a Grecian-inspired celebration.
Color Theme: Pick 2-3 colors to incorporate into décor, cake and invitations – you could even ask guests to come dressed in the chosen colors.
Karaoke: load up a simple Karaoke machine with a mix of recent hits and old time classics, and sing your hearts out.
“Why is this in my closet?!” Party: Invite guests to come dressed in something completely out-of-style or totally random from their closet. Kids think this is a riot!
Dress-up-as-what-you-wanted-to-be-as-a-kid Party: You’ll be greeted by astronauts, fire fighters and princesses – so much fun!
Nerf Battle: Have an epic nerf battle (we suggest outside!)

And whatever theme you decide upon, consider adding a Selfie Station or Photo Booth so your birthday boy or girl can document their big day the best way they know how: with some epic selfies!

Photo source & inspiration links: Little Orchard Craft

13th Birthday Party Ideas – Fun Food

Forget boring hot dogs and plain burgers, add an extra special touch to your at-home 13th birthday party by incorporating one of these incredible food spreads or help-yourself “bars”:

Sweet Treats Board
Candy Board
Decorate a Donut Station
Banana Split Bar
Pancake Bar
Soda Bar
Italian Soda Station
Milk Shake Bar
Sparkling Juice Bar
Ice Cream Bar
Burger, Fries and Chicken Finger Platter

For more birthday party food ideas, head to our popular post: Kids Birthday Party Food Ideas For An Epic Celebration!

13th Birthday Party Ideas – Places to Go / Party Venues

If the idea of throwing a 13th birthday party at your home doesn’t float your boat, we’ve pulled together a list of venues or activities you could consider instead:

Concert
Sports Game
Aquarium
IMAX theatre
Amusement Park
Water Park
Go Carts
Movie Theater
Arcade
Ice Skating/Roller Rink
Escape Room
Bowling Alley
Ice Skating
Laser Tag
Paintball
Rock Climbing
Trampoline Park
Skate Park
Nice Restaurant
Horseback Riding
Party Bus/Limo to Restaurant
Boat Cruise
Spa Day
Camping Trip
Mini Golf
Ropes Course
Take a Class/Lesson (dance, cooking, painting, etc)
Shopping
Day Trip into the City

13th Birthday Party Ideas – Games to Play

Need some ideas for outdoor party games for kids and teens ? From classic, to totally unique, we’ve pulled together a massive list of the most fun outdoor party games that are guaranteed to entertain.

You’ll be spoilt for choice from our list which covers every type of outdoor game – from those classic favorites (think 3-legged race and tug of war), to innovative new activities (check out “Pantyhose Bowling”!) and plenty of water game ideas too!

Turning 13 is a huge milestone, and a really big deal! We hope that list of 13th birthday party ideas has helped the birthday girl or boy decide on exactly what they envision for their big day. Happy Birthday!

We suggest checking out more of our birthday content to add even more special touches: