Party Ideas for 2-Year-Old Toddlers in Minnesota

Growing up in Minnesota provides many opportunities for parties and family fun. With its changing seasons, lakes and resorts and pleasant summers, there are many ways to have a fantastic birthday party for a 2-year old. The environment lends itself to a variety of themes and unique birthday fare. The most effective parties are those which are organized and planned well in advance.

Beach Party

With Minnesota known as being the land of 10,000 lakes, it is always easy to find a state park with a sandy beach for a toddler's party. Purchase many types of buckets and sand molds, goody bags with sunglasses and visors, summer snacks and plenty of sunscreen and you will have a party that everyone will enjoy. Stake out an area on the beach early with bright towels and large umbrellas and invite parents along to keep an eye on their active toddlers. Picnic foods include molded gelatin salads, mini hot dogs, sliders, chips, cookies and brownies.

Snow Festival

If your toddler turns 2 in the winter months when there is plenty of snow on the ground, have a snow festival. Teach the little ones to make snow angels and give prizes to the best ones. Have other adults and older children pull the toddlers on sleds on a pre-arranged scenic trail. Party fare could include golden grilled cheese sandwiches cut in various designs, fries and a snowman birthday cake.

Lawn Party

Minnesota lawns are lush and green, so an outdoor BBQ for the little guest of honor is the perfect way to entertain family and friends. If space is ample, pony rides and a petting zoo will enthrall young party goers. Other activities include jumping in a giant moonwalk, having intricate animal balloons made by a local balloon artist or setting up miniature train rides. Foot races, balloon tosses and hide-and-seek are easy games for the budget-minded. The BBQ could include child-size ribs, sweet potato chips, grilled corn on the cob and a chocolate birthday cake.

Indoor Fun

Minnesota is unpredictable, so oftentimes parties need to be moved indoors. Create mazes with tubes and boxes to keep the youngsters occupied for hours. Rent a small moonwalks that fits in your home for jumping and bouncing activities. Finger painting, play dough sculpting and coloring contests with special prizes will occupy the children and create automatic take-home party favors. Foods that are easily moved inside include fresh fruit, carrots and celery sticks, peanut butter and jelly finger sandwiches and decorated cupcakes.