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A Bloom Approach in Wading River offers a place where children one to five years old learn through self-guided play and art. (Photo Credit: Victoria Caruso)

Birthday parties are something many kids look forward to with anticipation but can easily be a source of stress for parents. From deciding who to invite, what to serve, and all the runaround to prepare, planning your child’s birthday party can quickly turn from joy to anxiety.

New to the scene, Bella Anima Parties co-owner, Jenna Aiello, notes that some of her clients want to “just walk in the door to the party,” meaning, the venue takes care of everything, and kids and parents alike get to actually enjoy the party. Many of the picks below share the same sentiment by providing a fun or creative environment for kids while allowing the parents to be a part of the party as well, rather than just the host. 

While we still love an old-fashioned backyard pizza party, these local businesses can make your child’s birthday incredible and also less stressful. Happy planning!

A Bloom Approach

Best for children five and younger, this Reggio Emilia-inspired art and sensory play lab offers birthday parties with up to five sensory and creativity stations including things like playdough making or messy art! Fun and educational, their team focuses on the kids and you can focus on food and decor.

5768 Route 25A, Suite S, Wading River; 631-905-2575

Safari Adventure

The local indoor climbing jungle, bounce house and arcade offer parties ranging from 90 minutes to 2 hours depending on the package selected. All packages include a private room to enjoy pizza and cupcakes and additional levels include invitations, drinks and arcade cards.

1074 Pulaski St., Riverhead; 631-727-4386

Insatiable Eats

Insatiable Eats has a kids’ version of the ever-popular adult paint-and-sip but for 5- to 16-year-olds. It includes all the art supplies and an artist to lead the session. A food package can be added so your guests can enjoy Insatiable Eats’ delicious food, too. Also, check out the pizza-making party option which is sure to be a hit with all.

300 E. Main St., Riverhead; 631-377-3353

Bella Anima Parties

Recently opened, Bella Anima is a spa-like destination where kids can play dress up and get manicures, have a tea party, or enjoy superheroes and face paint. All food, invitations and decor are included. Customizations for different size groups and budgets are available upon request.

5768 Route 25A, Suite W, Wading River; 631-603-7722

North Fork Cheer

The North Fork’s favorite cheer gym opens its doors for more than just its athletic programs. The gym hosts 90-minute birthday parties that include paper goods, food, and certified coaches to supervise the activities. They allow you to customize your party to either ninja, gymnastics, cheer, dance, craft, paint, princess, glam party, or sports.

22355-13 County Rd. 48, Cutchogue; 631-734-8187

East End Arts

Located in downtown Riverhead, this creative arts space hosts parties with a choice of theme: paint, rock band, or karaoke. Each party includes 60 minutes of fun instruction followed by 30 minutes for food and cake. All food and decor are supplied by the host.

133 E. Main St., Riverhead; 631-727-0900

GymNation

Home to champion gymnasts and an inflatable whale to run through. These 90-minute parties give your kids the opportunity to test their agility by running through an obstacle course as well as enjoying some fun with a parachute.

1074 Pulaski St., #21, Riverhead; 631.905.2575

Long Island Aquarium

Birthday parties at the aquarium include full-day aquarium admission, party invitations, aquatic-themed party ware and a staff member to host. With various packages, you can customize food options and budgets and even add on extras like a shark dive!

431 E. Main St., Riverhead; 631.208.9200

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