15+ Creative First Birthday Activities Everyone Will Love

Planning your little one’s first birthday can feel both exciting and a bit overwhelming.

You might be wondering, “What on earth do I do to entertain everyone?” Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with some fun and easy activities that will make the day memorable for all—without stressing you out.

Keep It Simple, Fun, and Memorable

Let’s face it, your baby won’t remember their first birthday, but that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be special.

The trick is to find activities that everyone, from your baby to the older kids and adults, will enjoy.

You don’t need anything fancy—just some simple games and activities that create a fun, relaxed atmosphere.

Ball Pit Fun

One of my go-to activities is setting up a ball pit. It’s as easy as filling a kiddie pool with ball pit balls, which you can grab online.

The best part? It’s safer than water, so you can relax a bit while the little ones dive in and have a blast.

Splash Around with a Kiddie Pool

If the weather’s warm, why not set up a kiddie pool?

You only need a couple of inches of water and some cups or small toys for splashing around.

It’s a great way to keep the little ones entertained without much effort. Just make sure to have adults nearby to supervise.

Bubble Bonanza

When in doubt, go with bubbles! You can hand out bubble wands or, if you want to take it up a notch, get a bubble machine.

Trust me, bubbles never fail to entertain kids—and even the grown-ups will love it.

Sensory Play Stations

Set up different stations with sensory activities like bins filled with rice, water beads, or sand.

Include scoops, cups, and small toys for the babies to explore. This keeps little hands busy and engaged.

Bubble Wrap Dance Floor

Lay out a big sheet of bubble wrap on the floor and let the kids crawl or toddle over it.

The popping sound is entertaining and adds a fun, sensory experience.

Animal Parade

Provide small, soft animal toys or puppets and encourage the kids to join in a little parade.

You can play some fun music as they march around, pretending to be different animals.

Storytime Corner

Set up a cozy corner with blankets, pillows, and a few of your baby’s favorite books.

You or another adult can read stories aloud while the little ones relax or play nearby.

Music and Movement

Put on some fun, upbeat music and have a little dance party.

You can add instruments like tambourines, maracas, or drums for the babies to shake and play along with.

Photo Booth with Props

Create a simple photo booth with cute props like hats, glasses, and little signs.

This is a fun way for guests to snap some memorable pictures with the birthday baby.

Balloon Room

Fill a small room or a play area with balloons. The babies will have a blast crawling around, pushing, and chasing the balloons.

Just make sure the balloons are securely tied or attached so they don’t pop easily.

Puzzle Play Area

Set out large, soft puzzles or stacking toys that are easy for little hands to grab.

This encourages motor skills and provides a calm activity for the younger guests.

Handprint Art

Set up a station where parents can help their babies make handprint art. Use washable, non-toxic paint on a large canvas or individual sheets of paper.

This makes for a sweet keepsake to take home.

Mini Obstacle Course

Create a simple obstacle course using pillows, tunnels, and soft blocks. Babies can crawl through and over the obstacles with the help of parents, making it a fun and interactive experience.

Creative Coloring

Set up a coloring table by covering a table with butcher paper or a big poster board.

Let the kids (and even the adults) go wild with crayons and markers.

It’s a fun way to keep everyone busy, and you’ll have a sweet keepsake with all their drawings and messages.

Cake Smash

No first birthday is complete without a cake smash! If you’re up for a bit of mess, let your baby dig into their own little cake.

It’s a fantastic sensory experience for them, and you’ll get some adorable photos. Just be ready for some cleanup afterward!

Last Thoughts

The key to a great first birthday is keeping it simple and focusing on making memories.

Whether it’s playing in a ball pit, splashing in a kiddie pool, or enjoying a cake smash, these activities will ensure everyone has a good time.

Don’t forget to take lots of pictures and just enjoy the day—it’s a celebration for you, too, mama! Happy birthday to your little one!

Looking for more first birthday fun? Check out these articles: