Need Ideas for my DS' Bday party

[JodiM]

Ds is turning 9, and we have decided to have a party at our house this year.

I need ideas on party themes and especially games for 9yr old boys.

We have always had parties at a location (skating rink, pool, etc) but with 2 house bills, money is tight... and honestly, I think my kids take too much for granted.

Anyhow, any ideas greatly appreciated.

TIA~ Jodi

(if this is in the wrong forum, sorry!)

[Scoodlebug]

Maybe a pirate theme? You could ask the guests to come dressed as pirates, set up a treasure hunt in your yard, make the kids walk the plank etc. Have a good old fashioned tug of war.

Or if you have a good relationship with some of your neighbors you could set up a scavenger hunt and give the kids a list of things to find and places that are acceptable for them to search. You could give the neighbors the items ahead of time (burnt sienna crayon etc). Weird random stuff that the kids will think are bizarre and funny.

As a kid I remember some one of the best parties I went to was a build your own pizza party. That was pretty fun, kept us occupied for a good chunk of time.

Possibly camping? If you're brave enough to do an overnight. My husband's little brother did this for his 10th birthday. He had three friends over to camp in his backyard and they thought it was the coolest thing ever. Especially this close to Halloween, you could read spooky stories, etc.

Hope that helps even a little.....