1. Stage Two Cinema Pub—Amesbury

At Stage Two Cinema Pub, you supply the party people and DVD movie of your choice, and they’ll take care of the rest of your child’s Oscar-worthy birthday celebration. Pizza, soda, popcorn, cake and ice cream, plus exclusive use of the cozy theater are all included. But, beware: The authentic airplane seating is so comfy that you may have to wake your kids' friends for cake and ice cream. There's a 15-person minimum for birthday parties.

2. ​CinemaSalem—Salem

At CinemaSalem, a four-screen independent theater, there are plenty of options. The basic package includes general film admission for all children and two adult chaperones, popcorn, drinks, candy, reserved seating in the theater, use of the lounge area before or after the show, linens and paper and a “Happy Birthday” announcement before the show. Add-ons include a custom cake or cupcakes, pizza (or both!) from local eateries. 

3. Chunky's—Haverhill

Bring your movie buff and his pals to see the current family-friendly hit at Chunky’s, a movie theater and restaurant all in one. Birthday party packages include all-you-can-eat pizza, popcorn and soft drinks; a personalized birthday cake, ice cream, candy grab bags, paper goods, and party invitations. You also have reserved tables where you’ll sit in luxurious leather seats straight from a Lincoln Town Car. Book on a weekday and receive a per person discount. A digital 3D movie has an additional fee. ​Birthday celebrations are held during matinee shows only. You can upgrade your pizza to chicken nuggets and fries or chicken tenders and fries. Chunky’s requires an 8-person minimum.

4. The Capitol Theatre—Arlington

Give your child the star treatment at The Capitol Theatre, where his favorite movie is the main event. Birthday parties are generally held Friday through Sunday during the daytime. You bring the DVD and the Capitol Theater blows it up on the big screen, provides a party host, and sets out an ice cream topping bar featuring Richardson’s ice cream, unlimited popcorn, and drinks. Party packages include 10 guests with an additional charge for each guest thereafter.

5. Simons IMAX Theatre at the New England Aquarium—Boston

Your child’s birthday party could be larger than life at the Simons IMAX Theatre at the New England Aquarium. Watch a thrilling IMAX or IMAX 3D film on New England’s largest screen and celebrate becoming a year older at one of the nearby participating restaurants including Bertucci’s, Cheers, the Hard Rock Café or Quincy’s Place. The birthday child will hear a special birthday greeting before the start of the show and can even have his or her digital picture displayed on the giant screen for all to see! The IMAX experience is a bit pricier than other theaters and so is great for smaller gatherings. Parties are for children ages 5 and up. Additional options, like Aquarium passes, are also available.

Top photo courtesy of Personal Creations/CC by 2.0