MAIN Party Ideas Teen Party Ideas Teen Party Locations

There's always one subject that teens and young adults are very serious about - and that's a party!

Besides college planning or the prom, an extra special Sweet 16 party probably tops the list of the most exciting event of a young adult's life.

With the growing popularity of outside venues for bar mitzvahs, graduation parties, and quinceanera celebrations, more families are also 'taking the show on the road' for a fun and fabulous party for their favorite teenager.

Location, location, location

The most obvious teen party venue choice is booking an extra fancy restaurant with a party room, or a local hotel with a banquet hall (see the complete US guide to teen party locations, below), but you may also want to consider other unusual venues such as museums, galleries, country clubs and even boat charters. Some of these venues may offer complete party packages, or have professional staff on hand to suggest and coordinate the services of a local cater, DJ or live band.

As with any important event that might strain your budget, it pays to shop around. Also be sure to ask friends or neighbors for 'been there, done that" advice about teen celebrations that they have enjoyed. Whatever you decide, be sure to begin at least several months in advance to leave enough time to decide on the number of guests, pick a party hall or other venue, and send out the invites.

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Teen party planning 101

Of course, planning the big event is half the fun, but there's so much to do — including getting the guest list together, picking out the party hall or venue, and choosing the invitations.

Most party experts advise getting your teenager involved as soon as possible. This not only makes it easier for parents, but it can become a teachable moment for teens about all the details that go into making a party a complete success.

Note that getting the guest list together, and deciding on a location, is just the start.

Auditioning entertainment like live bands or djs, as well as hiring specific vendors such as party photo booths and other fun activities, have also frequently become an important part of a teen party blowout that will be remembered for a lifetime.

A total Sweet 16 party package: dj, dancing, food, friends and fun ...

More teen party hosting tips

Thinking about cutting costs by having a buffet, rather than a full course sit-down dinner? By all means talk with your vendor to see what other cost-cutting measures they can help with to earn your business.

When it comes to sending out the invitations have your teen post date, time, and location details on a popular e-invite party site. It's not only considered trendy and cool among many teenagers, but it will save you a bundle - since the service is absolutely free!

On party night, also remember that gifts will probably be a major part of the celebration, so be sure to have plenty of room ready in the car trunk, or have friends or family ready to help haul all that party loot home...

Around the Web (see above) you can quickly and easily find the perfect venue on the Web and in some cases even book your party online. On party night, all you have to do is show up, and enjoy your teen's special celebration with absolutely no cleanup - even more reason for parents to celebrate!