90s Party Ideas for Kids: Ultimate Throwback Birthday Guide
Throw the most epic 90s-themed birthday bash for your kids with fun decorations, nostalgic snacks, neon outfits, and iconic games like Twister and Beanie Baby bingo. Whether you lived through the decade or just love the colorful chaos, these 90s party ideas for kids will spark joy and unforgettable memories.
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Why a 90s Party for Kids Is Totally Awesome
If you’re looking to throw a birthday party that’s full of color, energy, and nostalgia, a 90s party for kids is the way to go. Think neon everything, old-school games, sugary snacks, and music that makes everyone dance. Whether you’re planning a backyard blowout or an indoor bash, these ideas will help you create a celebration that’s both fun and stress-free.
90’s Party Ideas For Kids
Rad 90s Decorations
One of the easiest ways to bring your 90s party ideas for kids to life is with bold, bright, and nostalgic decorations.
- Bright Neon Colors – Use a mix of neon pink, green, blue, and yellow for tablecloths, balloons, and streamers.
- Inflatable Furniture – If you can find inflatable chairs or couches, they’ll add a fun 90s vibe.
- Glow-in-the-Dark Items – Use glow sticks, glow-in-the-dark stars, and black lights to create an awesome party atmosphere.
- 90s Posters & Cutouts – Decorate with posters of popular 90s cartoons (Rugrats, Powerpuff Girls, Pokémon) or musicians (Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, *NSYNC).
- DIY Cassette Tape Banners – Cut out cassette tape shapes and string them up for a retro party banner.
- colorful disco ball
90s Music Playlist for the Ultimate Vibes
Make a Spotify playlist with hits like:
- I Want It That Way – Backstreet Boys
- No Scrubs – TLC
- MMMBop – Hanson
- Barbie Girl – Aqua
- Wannabe – Spice Girls
Let the kids sing along with a mini karaoke machine for added fun!
90s Food and Snacks
The best 90s party ideas for kids always include throwback snacks like Dunkaroos and Fruit Roll-Ups.
A 90s party isn’t complete without classic childhood snacks and drinks! Here’s what to include on your menu:
Main Dishes
- Pizza – A must-have for any 90s-themed party. Order from a classic pizza chain or make mini pizzas at home.
- Lunchables-Inspired Snack Packs – Create DIY Lunchables with crackers, cheese, ham, and pepperoni.
Snacks
- Dunkaroos – Make homemade Dunkaroos with vanilla cookies and funfetti frosting.
- Gushers & Fruit Roll-Ups – Classic 90s lunchbox staples.
- Bugles & Doritos – Serve in individual snack bags for an authentic feel.
- Jell-O Cups – In bright colors like red, green, and blue.
- Fruit Roll-Ups
- Kool-Aid Squeeze-its
- retro candy assortment pack
Drinks
- Capri Suns – A nostalgic favorite that kids will love.
- Kool-Aid – Serve in fun flavors like Tropical Punch and Grape.
- Soda Floats – Use root beer or orange soda with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic treat.
Throwback Birthday Cake Ideas
🎂 Create a cake shaped like a:
- Boom box
- Nintendo Game Boy
- Lisa Frank-style rainbow
You can also order 90s cake toppers on Etsy or Amazon for an easy themed touch.
Totally Tubular Party Games
Classic games like Twister and Beanie Baby bingo are must-haves when planning 90s party ideas for kids that everyone will enjoy.
Make the party unforgettable with these fun 90s-inspired games and activities:
- Twister – A 90s party classic that kids will have a blast playing.
- Beanie Baby Toss – Have kids try to toss Beanie Babies into baskets for prizes.
- Slime Making Station – Set up a DIY slime-making area using glue, borax, and food coloring.
- Musical Chairs
- 90s Trivia – Quiz the kids with fun questions about 90s cartoons, movies, and toys.
- Nintendo 64 or PlayStation Corner – If you have an old-school console, set it up with games like Mario Kart or Crash Bandicoot.
- Dance Party – Play hits from the 90s like “Wannabe” by the Spice Girls and “Mambo No. 5” by Lou Bega.
- Photo Booth – Include props like oversized sunglasses, slap bracelets, and inflatable microphones.
Party Favors That Scream 90s
Don’t forget party favors — small goodies like snap bracelets and slime jars perfectly complement your 90s party ideas for kids.
Send guests home with fun 90s-themed party favors, such as:
- slap bracelets
- temporary tattoos
- neon fanny packs
- scrunchies
- snapback caps
- Mini packs of Gushers or Fruit Roll-Ups
Bring back the craft craze! Set up a table with supplies for kids to make their own friendship bracelets, perler bead creations, or tie-dye shirts.
If you want a no-fuss option, check out this friendship bracelet-making kit and pre-made tie-dye kit that’ll keep the mess to a minimum.
Dress Code: 90s Style for Kids
Encourage guests to wear:
- Tie-dye shirts
- Baggy overalls or windbreakers
- Scrunchies and snap bracelets
- Temporary tattoos and mood rings
📸 Add a photo booth with props like Game Boys, old phones, and fake rollerblades for that full retro vibe.
Bonus: 90s Movie Night After-Party
If you’re going for an extended event or sleepover:
🎬 Watch classics like:
- Space Jam
- The Sandlot
- Honey, I Shrunk the Kids
- Matilda
Provide popcorn, 3D glasses, and cozy sleeping bags.
For more sleepover ideas, check out this post.
Planning more themed parties? Check out these:
- Memorial Day Party Ideas
- Squid Games Party Ideas for Teens
- Construction Party Ideas
- 36 Fruit Charcuterie Board Ideas
For even more inspiration:
✨ FAQ: 90s Party Ideas for Kids
What are some budget-friendly 90s party ideas for kids? Try printable invites, DIY decorations, and homemade snacks to keep costs low.
What are the best games for a 90s kids’ party?
Twister, Beanie Baby Bingo, and Slime Stations are fun, low-prep options that bring back nostalgic fun and keep kids entertained.
How do I decorate for a 90s theme?
Think neon, geometric prints, hanging CDs, glow sticks, and inflatable furniture. Add 90s posters for an authentic vibe.
What should kids wear to a 90s party?
Encourage bold colors, overalls, scrunchies, bucket hats, and tie-dye shirts — or hand out accessories as they arrive!
What’s a good 90s party favor?
Snap bracelets, slime, mood rings, and retro candy make great 90s-style take-home gifts kids will love.
Can I throw a 90s party on a budget?
Absolutely. DIY decorations, digital invites, homemade snacks, and curated Spotify playlists keep costs low and fun high.
Bottom Line
With these 90s party ideas for kids, you’ll throw a party that’s not only fun and nostalgic but totally unforgettable.
A 90s party for kids is the ultimate way to celebrate a birthday with color, fun, and just the right amount of chaos. From iconic snacks to unforgettable games, you can craft a party that both kids and nostalgic parents will love. Don’t forget to snap some pics and soak in all the retro fun!
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