20 December Birthday Party Ideas for a Memorable Winter Celebration

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you—thanks for supporting my blog! Read full disclosure here.

Celebrating a birthday in December? It’s not always easy—the cold, the packed holiday season—I get it. Finding ideas that actually work for this time of year feels like a puzzle sometimes.

So, here are 20 December birthday party ideas to make planning a little less stressful and the day a whole lot more special.

No matter the weather, these should help you land on a theme, setting, or activity that stands out.

1) Winter Wonderland Theme Party

Honestly, I love a Winter Wonderland theme in December. It’s calm, a bit magical, and those white, blue, and silver decorations just set the mood.

Add snowflakes, fairy lights, and maybe some frosted tableware. I always try to make cozy corners with blankets and warm drinks.

If there’s snow, go for snowman building. If not, indoor crafts like paper snowflakes work too. This theme leaves a lot of room for creativity, whether you’re inside or brave enough for outside.

Recommended Amazon products:

• Winter Wonderland Party Decoration Set – “Snowflake Balloons, Silver Garland & Fairy Lights Kit”
• Christmas Cookie Decorating Kit – “Cookie Cutters, Icing Bags, and Holiday Sprinkles Set”
• Pre-Built Gingerbread House Kit – “Ready-to-Decorate Gingerbread House with Candy Toppings”
• Hot Chocolate Bar Set – “Gourmet Cocoa Mix with Mini Marshmallows & Peppermint Sticks”
• DIY Snow Globe Craft Kit – “Mini Jars, Glitter, Figurines & Glue for Kids”
• Cozy Slumber Party Set – “Fairy Lights, Plush Blankets, and Floor Pillows for Indoor Sleepovers”

2) Christmas Cookie Decorating Party

A Christmas cookie decorating party just feels right for a December birthday. It’s hands-on, a little messy, and everyone gets to be creative.

Bake cookies ahead of time or grab some plain ones from the store. Set out bowls of icing, sprinkles, and all the toppings.

It’s easy to set up and works for all ages. Guests stay busy, and you end up with delicious treats to share.

3) Gingerbread House Making

Gingerbread house making? Always a hit. Everyone gets to build and decorate their own—sometimes the results are hilarious.

You can use kits or make the pieces yourself if you’re feeling ambitious. Lay out candies and icing, and let people go wild.

It’s low-pressure and suits all ages. Plus, kids get to show off their creativity, which is always fun to watch.

4) Ice Skating Birthday Outing

An ice skating birthday outing just screams winter. It’s active, and you can go indoors or out, depending on the weather.

Pick a rink with rentals and a safe vibe. I like to bring in some fun music and a bit of decoration.

Don’t forget warm clothes and a hot cocoa station for after. Throw in some friendly races if your crew is competitive.

5) Indoor Laser Tag Battle

Indoor laser tag is a lifesaver in December. It keeps everyone moving and laughing without freezing outside.

You don’t need a huge space—just clear a basement or living room. Add neon lights or create some hiding spots.

Split into teams and make up missions for extra excitement. It’s easy to mix with snacks or other games, so you’re not stuck with just one activity.

6) Trampoline Park Celebration

Trampoline parks are my go-to for winter birthdays. Kids burn off energy, and you don’t have to worry about the weather.

Book early, since weekends fill up fast. Most parks have party rooms and packages with food and games, which honestly makes hosting easier.

Add a theme or group games like dodgeball. It’s a win-win: exercise and fun under one roof.

7) Cozy Indoor Slumber Party

A slumber party feels just right for December. It keeps everyone warm and lets you chill out together.

I like setting up comfy sleeping areas with blankets and pillows. Add some soft lights and you’re set.

Movies, board games, or storytelling keep the night interesting. Plus, it gives everyone time to bond without rushing.

8) Snowman Building Contest

A snowman building contest is a classic. All you need are scarves, hats, and some random decorations.

Hand out shovels and buckets for building. Teams can compete for tallest or most creative snowman.

Toss in a few small prizes for the winners. It’s a great way to get everyone outside and working together—if you’re lucky enough to have snow.

9) Hot Chocolate and Movie Night

I’m a big fan of a hot chocolate bar paired with movie night. Set up toppings—marshmallows, candy canes, whipped cream—so guests can make their own perfect cup.

Pick a couple of favorite movies and let people lounge. It’s easy, cozy, and works for all ages.

You don’t have to overthink it. Sometimes simple is best, especially when it’s cold outside.

10) Holiday Sweater Dress Code

A holiday sweater dress code? Yes, please. It sets a festive mood and gives everyone an excuse to wear something silly or cozy.

Go for ugly Christmas sweaters or something a bit classier. Up to you and your crowd.

DIY sweaters are a fun touch, too. Either way, it keeps the vibe fun and planning simple.

11) DIY Snow Globe Crafting

I always enjoy a DIY snow globe activity at December parties. It’s easy for kids and adults, and you don’t need fancy supplies—just jars, figurines, water, and fake snow or glitter.

Everyone goes home with a unique keepsake. Personalize with holiday or birthday themes for extra flair.

I usually grab supplies from the dollar store to keep it affordable. It’s hands-on and makes the day more memorable.

12) Festive Christmas Tree Decorating

Decorating a Christmas tree can totally set the mood for a December birthday. Red and green ornaments bring that classic festive feel.

Mix in birthday-themed touches—numbered candles or tiny gift boxes. I love adding lights and ribbons to make it pop.

DIY ornaments add a personal touch. It’s a simple way to blend the holiday and birthday celebrations.

13) Sledding Adventure

A sledding adventure just feels right for a December birthday. It gets everyone outside and moving, which is sometimes exactly what you need.

Find a good hill and bring enough sleds. That’s really all it takes.

Mix in snow forts or snowball fights if the group’s up for it. It keeps the day active and festive.

14) Winter Puzzle Challenge

I like to set up a Winter Puzzle Challenge for December birthdays. It keeps kids engaged indoors when it’s freezing out.

Set up a puzzle decorating station so everyone can design their own pieces. Then, hide those pieces around the party for a scavenger hunt.

Kids follow clues, find the pieces, and put the puzzle together as a group. It’s a team effort and gives everyone a little keepsake to take home.

15) Personalized December Birthday Cake

Honestly, a personalized cake just makes a December birthday pop. Picking flavors like peppermint or gingerbread feels right for winter.

Holiday or winter-themed decorations give the cake its own vibe. Add the birthday person’s name or age—suddenly it’s theirs.

No need to get fancy. Even a simple cake with thoughtful touches stands out and feels special.

16) Candy Cane Scavenger Hunt

Candy canes make a scavenger hunt way more festive at December parties. I like hiding them around the house or yard and tossing out clues.

It keeps guests moving and laughing, no matter their age. The winner with the most candy canes gets a little prize—always a hit.

You can make clue cards as easy or tricky as you want. It’s a simple way to add some excitement and holiday spirit.

17) DIY Ornament Making

DIY ornament making always goes over well at December birthdays. It’s easy to set up and lets everyone get creative.

I lay out materials like wood beads, felt, or clay. A few instructions help keep things from getting too chaotic.

Guests take home their creations as party favors or hang them up for the holidays. It’s a sweet, hands-on activity.

18) Winter Fairy Tale Storytime

I love setting up a cozy spot for winter fairy tale storytime. Blankets, pillows, and soft lights make it super inviting.

Winter stories or magical fairy tales always capture the kids’ attention. Reading out loud keeps things calm for a bit.

Sometimes I’ll grab a few props or a costume to make it more fun. This chill activity fits perfectly into a December birthday.

19) Charity Gift Wrapping Party

Hosting a charity gift wrapping party for a December birthday feels good. Friends and family gather, wrap gifts, and help out a local cause.

We use the time to raise a little money and donate it. Suddenly, it’s not just a party—it means something.

I toss out wrapping paper, ribbons, and snacks to keep things festive. Everyone leaves feeling like they did a little good this season.

20) Holiday Karaoke Session

Honestly, a holiday karaoke session just makes December birthday parties way more fun. It’s such a laid-back way for everyone to let loose with music and celebrate—no pressure.

You don’t need anything fancy for this. Grab a karaoke machine or just use an app, and you’re set for some classic holiday songs.

Singing those Christmas tunes always brings up the mood. Doesn’t matter if you’re a pro or totally off-key—everyone can join in.

Want to spice it up? Try adding a bit of friendly competition or pick a theme for the songs. It’s a super simple way to keep people laughing and involved all night.