Kids Birthday Party or Things to Do on a Budget

My birthday is in November, so I never had big parties, as money was being spent on Christmas. When I was younger, my mum always had a party at home. I would be allowed a few friends for a sleepover, we would rent a few movies, have snacks and cake. I had these kinds of parties till I was 18 and I loved them!

Are there any free Christmas type events in your area that you could take them too? Or you could get them to create their own decorations or bake cookies/cupcakes? Is there any activity that your boys like doing that you could do on the cheap? Like if your son likes football, then you could take them to the park and have a match (it would be cold, but they wouldn't need to be out for long). I haven't had to plan any kids parties, I am just trying to think of the parties that I had and that my husband had.

The 2yr old won't remember so keep it simple, tea and perhaps make/buy a simple sponge and let him decorate it with butter icing and a couple of packets of his favourite sweets, doesn't matter what it looks like he will love it. Make a fuss about making a wish and blowing out candles after tea. For the older one don't get trapped into the party bag/everyone else does it syndrome. Do simple food boxes.. no waste, a few carrot sticks, flapjack etc. Give yr son choices such as should they have ham or cheese sandwiches, crisps or wotsits etc. Don't do anything Christmassy as its his special day. Call it retro and play simple games, if its dry a simple game of football or a treasure hunt will burn off some energy. Good luck

The 2year old won't mind what they do, so maybe just have a couple of friends over or go to soft play. The 9year old might prefer cinema, swimming, trampolining or bowling with a couple of friends?

I think the biggest saving is on cake, you can bake them, get the frosting and mix colors and use some great recipes. Some of the cakes cost £60 now, I think it is better to make one, and you will make a £45 saving just there.