Pass The Apple This energetic and fun game is easy on the pocket and quite simple. It only needs four apples. First, break the children into two groups. When the game master says, "go!" the children must pass on the apple from their neck to the next child's neck without dropping it. They must only use their neck and chin and the children disobeying would be disqualified. ) If you don't want your guests to spend so much with costumes, you can opt to hold a themed party and not require them to come in costumes. It's how you carry out the party that matters. But, of course, getting your guests in costumes would make your party pictures look so much better. Staple to a themed party, and other children's party, for that matter, are the fun games. This will keep your guest list and expenses under control. Also, ask the venue owner if they can only accommodate a certain number of people and if they require that your guest list have a minimum number of confirmed attendees. Most owners of outdoor children's party places have entertainment and food packages for a speficic number of people (30s, 50s, etc), so you'll also have to ask how much they charge per head in case your guests exceed the number you've initially committed to. If your child admired the recent movie Pirates Of The Carribean and just would not remove that black patch on his eye, then you should think about giving your little critter a Pirate Party. This kind of party is inclusive of the treasure hunting and lady kidnapping and all the other things a pirate would entertain himself with. If you're lucky (and really trying not to spend so much), you can ask a friend to dress up as a clown for the event. You'd be surprised that some of your close friends will be willing to act goofy to help you out. Try to ask who wants to volunteer first before you scan the yellow pages. You never know. Even if he or she will have a big hand in deciding what kind of children's birthday party will be thrown, there are very minute details (like what to put inside the goodie bags) that will need attention. You may scan the local yellow pages for a listing of children's birthday party planners in your area.