Over the years, I’ve planned and hosted more birthday parties than any sane person should, and have developed a few convictions along the way, such as “Goody bags are my nemesis” and “a good party planner is a gift dropped down from Heaven.” Since it doesn’t look like kids are going to stop having birthdays any time soon, a few tips from the party experts sure can help. Below find seven great tips from some of our fave NJ party planners and venues.

Did you know The Garden State currently ranks NUMBER ONE in the U.S. for most bike-friendly college campuses and businesses?*  New Jersey is also ranked Number 12 for on the list of bike-friendliest states. There’s some Jersey pride for you! May is Bike Month, so let’s all celebrate the power of the speedy, earth-friendly two-wheeler. Below is a list of New Jersey bike events, so grab your helmet, screw on those steering wheels—if your kiddies need them—and enjoy a classic American pastime…riding a bike. And hey, if a bike was good enough transport for Mary Poppins…it’s just as fab for MOMMY Poppins, right?

While a beautiful bouquet of flowers is always appreciated on Mother's Day, why not give mom a chance to enjoy one of the most beautiful gardens in the area? During Mother's Day weekend, the New York Botanical Garden is holding a special garden party with a vintage twist. There will be plenty of activities for mom—and the entire family—to enjoy.

Kids' birthday parties should be a blast, but they don't necessarily need to be two hours of lavish expense resulting in a mountain of under-appreciated gifts. Just as you can organize an at-home volunteering project during a playdate, it's easy to throw a party with a purpose. This goes beyond encouraging guests to donate to charity in lieu of presents (which is great, too). We've rounded up fun and easy things kids can do to help those in need that can be incorporated into many themes, and all of our ideas can be done at home. Make sure you have a brief discussion with the kids before you get started about why you've chosen to host a party with a purpose, and who will benefit from their generosity. That way the children not only understand the concept, they can feel good about giving to others. Isn't that the greatest birthday gift of all?

Before Spring Break, I excitedly made a list of adventures I wanted to undertake with my children.  I had grand visions of exciting trips to NYC, educational outings to local museums, and spine thrilling natural adventures.  I carefully planned itineraries, scouted deals, and made reservations.  And then I called my friend Sarah and invited her and her twin girls to join us.  Sarah graciously listened to my grand plans before suggesting an alternative right here in Fairfield County.  “Have you thought about a trip to the Springdale Diner?”

Been procrastinating about summer camp? Well perhaps it's paid off. Our latest roundup of deals includes 25% off cool summer programs where kids can enjoy music, modeling, language and sports, and a whopping 50% off fencing camp.


Already have summer camp all planned out? We also have significant discounts on the upcoming Kidrockers concert, the hilarious improved pirate show The Greatest Pirate Story Never Told! and more. If you see a bargain you can't pass up, act fast: Many of these deals will be gone before Memorial Day hits.