Pirate Birthday Party - Games

No pirate party would be complete without a Treasure Hunt. This game is probably best played last, so the kids will not be distracted by the loot until it is almost time to go home. Before the party create a treasure map and clues for your little pirates to follow. The hunt should lead to a hidden "chest" filled with treasures, such as gold chocolate coins, small snack bags of gummy fish, colorful Starburst candies, tiny bags of marbles, colored beaded necklaces, toy compasses, miniature telescopes, skull key chains and other treasures. You can make your own treasure chest or order one on-line at Birthday in a Box for $6.99.

To start the game present a rolled up treasure map to the Pirate Captain or the birthday child. This map contains the first clue. At each step of the hunt, hide another clue. (Hint: Use crumpled brown paper bag to make the clue notes - it is much easier than tea staining paper to make the paper look old.)

When the kids find the treasure chest have them take turns claiming the valuables until all the treasures are claimed. Or pre-fill the treasure chest with individual goody bags.

Another good game to play is Cannonball Madness. Give each guest one inflated black balloon (or have the kids blow up and tie the balloons themselves). On the mark of "GO" all the kids will try to keep their balloons up in the air. The object is to keep all the balloons afloat by bopping them continually with their hands. The group will continue to play until the last balloon hits the floor. This is a fun way to burn off excess energy during the party.

All pirates love to order people to Walk the Plank. You will need a long 2x4 for the plank. Each guest will take his or her turn walking across the plank. Those pirates who cross the plank successfully will deserve a prize.

Pin the Eye Patch on the Pirate is a great game for this theme. It is played like Pin the Tail on the Donkey. You can order this game from Birthday in a Box or make your own pirate face with enough eye patches for all your guests. At game time cover the players' eyes (one player at a time) with a pirate's bandanna. Spin the player gently two-three times, then point them toward the pirate to tape his or her eye patch on the pirate face. The player with the patch closest to the correct spot wins!

Before the party draw a pirate map on a large cardboard box, so you can play Treasure Toss. Cut three large holes in the map on the box. Make or buy five bean bags. The object of the game is for the kids to throw the bean bags into the holes for points. Just like a bean bag game at a carnival. Kid with the most points wins.