Throw an unforgettable birthday in 4 simple steps

Birthday parties and special occasions can be expensive! Here's how to have a good time without breaking the bank.

• Many places, like museums, zoos and wavepools, have group discounts.
• Be sure to ask ahead of time for special deals and savings that may not be advertised.
• Look online for discount codes.
• Have your party on off-peak days or times for a better price.

Finding a venue that charges per group (a maximum number of people in your party) rather than a per-head cost could save you money. Here are some great venues for a large party:

• Indoor playgrounds
• Pottery painting
• Laser tag
• Paintball
• Bowling alleys
• Amusement parks
• Adventure playgrounds
• Swimming pools

• Party outings will be cheaper if you can take your own food, cake and loot bags.
• Where appropriate, look for coupon specials, then have someone pick up a couple of pizzas and drop them off at your location. It's usually cheaper than delivery.

• Pick-your-own farms provide lots of entertainment for kids. Plus, you can send kids home with a fresh pint of berries instead of candy.
• Outdoor art exhibits and concerts are usually free.
• Arrange free tours of fire stations and chocolate or candy factories.
• Hold a sports day at your local park where, for a nominal fee (or even free), you may have access to a barbeque and picnic tables.

From birthdays to year-end parties, we all want to give our child something special. These unique ideas can save you money and give your kid a party their whole school will be talking about.