One-Year-Old Birthday: Park Ranger National Parks Theme

I can't believe I have a one-year-old. Where does the time go? This first year of my child's life flew by, and my heart is aching. My sweet boy, I love you. I miss you so much as a newborn, but I'm savoring every moment with you as you grow up. These moments are critical and crucial. I love you so much.

---

Deciding a Birthday Party Theme

My son is named Ranger, so it was fitting to have a National Park birthday theme. It was a hit and so perfect for our strong, outdoorsy wild boy, AKA Junior Park Ranger. Ranger had such a blast with his family and friends celebrating his 1st birthday!

My husband, Ranger's Dad, built this awesome light-up sign that we used as our backdrop. Originally, I wanted the life-size marquee letters, but after getting a quote for $600, we axed that idea, and my hubby got creative. He picked up a wood palette from a friend, ordered block letters from Amazon that spelled "PARK," and we utilized the neon name sign we already had in our son's bedroom to add the finishing touches. It couldn't have worked out more perfectly and was cost-effective and resourceful.

---

The Animals of Ranger's National Park-Themed Birthday Party

We had Eyes of the Wild come, which rescues animals and offers personal experiences with Earth's amazing wildlife. These animals live on a 21 acre farm in Hunterdon County, New Jersey. We selected a certain amount of animals based on the price quote. It was so reasonable and worth every penny.

Then, based on the animals temperament of the day, the animal handlers may be able to bring the animals requested or they may have to change options in a pinch.

We got to see an Arctic Fox, Chinchilla, Sugar Glider and a Wallaby, which is by far the craziest animal I have seen yet! Wallaby mommy had her baby in her pouch. It was WILD! The presentation was funny and educational. This experience was a hit for the kids and the adults. Highly recommend.

---

Food Fit for a (Lion) King

As far as food and presentation for the National Park birthday theme, we did our best to fit the theme. My mom, AKA Ranger's GiGi, put together the most ELABORATE charcuterie board across our entire kitchen island.

We laid down brown paper across our bar and stocked up on meats, cheese, fruit, crackers, and mixed nuts from Costco. Then added some specialty cheeses to the mix from a local nearby farm plus homemade jam from my Mother-in-law and decorated the board with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary and sage to give it a more woodsy vibe.

It was an absolute hit and it was absolutely delicious. We also did sandwiches and chips!

---

Feeding the Birthday Party Kids

Kids had fun snacks, too, all National Park birthday themed.

From campfire hotdogs/pigs in a blanket, to bear poop/dried craisins, to gone fishing/goldfish, to watch out for bears/gummies, juice boxes and sticker sheets with all outdoors animals to decorate.

The Kid's Birthday Party Watering Hole

We also had a hot cocoa bar with decadent hot chocolate that simmered in the crockpot for hours.

Of course, we provided lots of beverage choices from water to soft drinks to my favorite low sugar, low sulfates, no additives wine from Scout And Cellar; my mother is a rep for this clean crafted wine.

---

Smash Cake and Party Favors

Ranger loved his little smash cake for the National Park birthday theme and our guests enjoyed our camping site cake from Swiss Chalet Bakery in Morristown. We also had s’mores kits to go as our guest gifts.

---

Shop the National Park Birthday Theme Style

Below are some of the things I ordered, from decorations to party supplies.

Decor

Stickers as decor and gifts

Camping banners

Camping cake toppers

Park Ranger sign

Happy birthday Ranger sign

ONE high chair banner

Activities & gifts

Woodland animal photo booth props

Woodland animal sticker sheets for the kids

Party supplies

Party plates/silverware set

Bamboo paper cups

Brown paper napkins

Stemless disposable wine glasses

Gold drinking cups

Disposable champagne flutes

Wearables

Ranger's cute Park Ranger uniform onesie

Ranger's cute Park Ranger tee

Matching bandanas for family and friends

Dog bandana

Park Ranger hat

---

Considering a National Park-Themed Birthday Party?

I love a good theme, and honestly, this one was just perfect. It definitely takes a village to throw a party like this. Between myself, my husband, and my mom, we held down the fort and made it happen. It was so nice to show our family and friends our new home and land, too.

What a day. Pinch me. We are so blessed. Thanks to everyone for celebrating with us, and I hope sharing our party planning inspires you for your next shindig!