No two Bar Mitzvah teens are created the same, so there’s no one-size-fits all type of party. While a nighttime or afternoon dance party is certainly the most common and traditional type of B Mitzvah party, it’s not the right fit for so many young adults. If this sounds like your B Mitzvah teen, don’t sweat it- here are some ideas for alternative types of B Mitzvah parties and activities that don’t involve a DJ or a dancefloor.
Mini-golf is a classic activity that is sure to be a hit with guests of all ages. Whether you set up a mini-golf course in your backyard, rent a portable course, or bring your friends to a local course, mini-golf is an active and entertaining way to celebrate the big day. If you’re planning on setting up minigolf at your own home, go big with the garden party theme and rent other backyard games for cheap, like cornhole, horseshoes, or frisbee-golf. This type of party is great for a teen who wants something intimate or lowkey, but can still bring an element of fun competition with friends!
For the gaming crowd, a rented out arcade all to themself is like walking into paradise! The same goes for an indoor sports arena, a rock-climbing gym, and any other niche space your teen may want to check out for their big day. The options are endless, so really lean into your teen’s interests when looking into an alternative venue for their party.
Another option for an at-home or lowkey party activity is crafting. Set up a crafting station where guests can make their own keepsakes to remember the special day. Whether it’s decorating a picture frame or making a friendship bracelet, crafting is a great way to get everyone involved and spark creativity. Alternatively, you could bring a group of your teen’s closest friends to a paint-your-own-pottery studio, a private painting lesson, or a jewelry workshop. The options are endless!
For a more relaxed activity, consider setting up a movie screening. Choose a movie that ties in with the theme of the B Mitzvah or that is a favorite of the guest of honor. You can rent out a local theater for a special screening, or pop some popcorn at home and set up a cozy viewing area with pillows and blankets, and everyone can sit back and enjoy the show.
If your party is taking place in the summer months, consider setting up a water-based party. A trip to the waterpark can be just as (or even more) exciting as driving out to the country club for another dance party, but you can also make a water park at home or in a local park. Whether it’s a slip and slide or a water balloon fight, water activities are a fun and refreshing way to celebrate. Just make sure to have plenty of towels on hand!
For a more cerebral activity, consider setting up a trivia game or scavenger hunt. Visiting an escape room or setting up a murder mystery party can be a great bonding activity for friends and family, and is a perfect idea for a teen who’d rather exercise their brain than get their feet sore on the dancefloor. This is a great way to get everyone involved and working together, and it can be a fun way to learn more about Jewish traditions and history.
Finally, if you’re looking for a way to give back, consider setting up a charity activity. Whether it’s a bake sale, donation drive, or a shift at the food bank, this is a great way to teach the guest of honor about the importance of giving back and to make a positive impact in the community.
A B Mitzvah party should be a celebration of the young adult being honored, whatever that celebration make look like. There is no right or wrong way to throw a B Mitzvah party, so let your teen paint their own picture of what the perfect party means to them. As long as they are having fun, the party will be a great success. Happy planning!
