Cowboys & Indians Party Ideas

A cowboys and Indians party theme can be a lot of fun since it lends itself to so many game and decorating options. It is also an affordable birthday party theme, since cowboy party supplies are so common and they aren't hard to find at a bargain rate. Use your imagination and keep your eye out for things around the house that you can use as well.

Invite your guests to come in costume if you don't have the budget to outfit everyone as they arrive. Let them choose whether they would like to be a cowboy or an Indian. You can also plan an activity in which the guests create an Indian headdress or decorate a cowboy bandanna. Keep to your theme as you decorate by using cardboard cutouts of cactuses or a teepee. Serve the food in pie tins or sitting on blankets on the ground.

Serve "western" food, of course. Create a small campfire where the kids can roast hot dogs on sticks. Set out a dutch oven with baked beans or chili, to be washed down with root beer in old fashioned bottles. There are endless possibilities for the cake: aside from the professional options at your local store, you could make your own. There are many cake sites on the Internet with ideas as well as step-by-step instructions.

Where you hold your party may determine the kinds of games to play. Consider your space and the mess factor involved in children's party games. A treasure hunt is a game that can be played both in and out of doors. "Pin the Cowboy on the Horse" is a classic, or you can purchase a safety archery set and allow the children to test their skill with a target. You could also take your party further afield. A local stable might be willing to hire out for the afternoon in order to give your little cowboys and Indians a pony ride. Or a local living history museum may have a party option for tours and crafts.