10 Ways to Party like a Catholic Rock Star

So this past Friday was my birthday! (No, I am not telling you my age!) I am always looking for new things to do to celebrate, but these days, it seems like that’s easier said than done. In high school I had a lot of friends, and all those friends had birthdays, so we were constantly trying to think of different ways to celebrate. Of course, there were always those friends who thought the only way to party was to drink alcohol and do other not so awesome things in some parentless house somewhere. I have to admit, I did go to some of these parties (nobody’s perfect, right?), but at every single one, I found myself getting annoyed at all the people who were there for their own selfish pleasures. Alessia Cara’s song “Here” totally described my feelings about going to parties like this. I thought to myself, “How is this even fun?” The thing was that when I finally got myself to get up and leave, that's when I would start having the most fun!

So, I was always (and still am) determined to show people how much fun you can have while doing things that are morally sound. Yeah, yeah, I know the whole “good clean fun” thing sounds cliché and makes you think of the 50s, but I’m talking about the kind of fun that’s adventurous, crazy, goofy, creative, and totally exciting, but also doesn’t lead me into sin and regret.

With that in mind, here are my 10 suggestions for how to party the Catholic way. AKA, the most fun way!

1. Plan a Movie Marathon Party

Ok, so this seems like an obvious choice, but here’s how you can spice it up! First, you decide whether you want to watch one of your favorite movie series’, such as The Lord of the Rings or Harry Potter, or just a ton of random favorites that people could bring over (This could totally count as their present!). Then, for each movie, pick an action or a word, and every time that you see that action or hear that word in the movie, everyone else has to do something like run around the house or sing their favorite song, or stuff marshmallows in their mouth…. Exciting, huh?

2. Go Exploring!

You might think that where you live is boring, but try going to tripadvisor.com or even Pinterest and explore something new to do in your town or a town near you, and go on a road trip! You’ll be surprised to see what’s around you that you never knew about before! Here’s a list of some awesome thing to do in Gilbert, Az: http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g31230-Activities-Gilbert_Arizona.html

3. Try Swing Dancing, Two-Stepping, or both!

Many places offer free, or super cheap dance lesson nights that are followed by an open dance floor! Grab a big group, get dressed up (or not), and challenge some people to a dance-off! Competition is always some good friendship-building material. Check out The Kat’s Korner in Mesa! http://www.thekatskorner.com

4. Go Outside…it’s pretty out there.

Get all of your friends to bring a snack to share and go to the park, out for a hike, or to the lake. Want a little more adventure? Maybe try taking a trip you’re your family and friends up to where it’s a bit colder! Dude, snow fort-building birthday parties, is one awesome time! Plus you could always have a contest for who can make the best birthday throne using sand, sticks, rocks, or snow!

5. Birthday Olympics

If you have an active friend group, throw an Olympics birthday party! Make different obstacle courses and relay games to play. You could even have people wear certain colors to divide themselves into different teams. Here are a couple of relay ideas if you’re stumped: http://icebreakerideas.com/best-relay-race-games/

6. City-Wide Scavenger Hunt

Only have 3 friends with cars or even 3 awesome and willing parents/older sblings? Make 3 teams and create a photo scavenger hunt that takes you all around your town! Make a list of different It’ll be an awesome birthday excursion and the only cost is some gas money!

7. Keep it Traditional

Never be afraid to have a traditional hang out party with all your friends! Invite people over for some food, cake, video games, and charades and I promise you it’ll be a blast! (Especially if you are as competitive during charades as I am…)

8. Murder Mystery Party

If you have an animated friend group, or friends that are into drama, a party like this will be absolutely hilarious. Give each of your friends their own character and comes dressed up and prepared to figure out “who done it?”. Click here for a good start if you are not sure how they work: Murder Mystery Party

9. Plan a Pinterest Party!

Ok, so although a lot of things on Pinterest seem out of reach, it’s still a blast to find a craft or food recipe you want to try to make. You can make it a group project or you can make it a team against team challenge to see who can make the Pinterest creation the best! (WARNING: Pinterest can be deceiving…Good luck!)

10. Give Back and Have a Service Party!

If you aren’t a big party person and you love helping others, plan a day with all your friends to volunteer at your favorite local non-profit. Giving up their day to spend time with you and those who are in most need of some love could be their gift to you, and to the community! Then, when you’re done, head to lunch or dinner together to share your experience.

Here’s a link for some awesome service opportunities in your area!

St. Vincent De Paul

First Food Bank

Andre House

St. Vincent de Paul in Phoenix will be hosting an event for the Young Vincentians on Saturday, March 19th at St. mary Magdalene. All High School teens and Edgers are invited, so definitely think about joining us!

So, although there are many more awesome things that you can come up with, these are just a few ideas to help you have one amazing birthday party without having to worry about feeling bored or not cool. Hope you have an awesome birthday!

+AMDG+

About the Author

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Maria Barone

I’m just your typical Italian-American, Buffalo-born, puppy-lovin’, adventure seeking, Catholic girl that actually isn’t that typical. I’m always ready to travel the world and learn new things while staying true to myself, my roots, and my faith. If you wanna see just how crazy I am go ahead and follow me on instagram @ria21993 or on Pinterest at ria223!

#party #birthday #Catholic #fun