11 Fun and Cool Birthday Party Ideas for Tween Girls (Ages 10–12)

Ahh, that moment when you realise your daughter has hit their tween years, they are no longer a little kid but not yet a teen. Indeed, ten year olds are a very different species (!!) to their younger and older peers!

The tween years really are a special time and plenty of reason to celebrate.

So here's a list of party ideas for tween girls who are enjoying defining their individuality and no longer want to do little-kid stuff.

So, if you are struggling to come up with ideas that will meet your tween's approval, look at this list of ideas for inspiration.

These birthday party ideas are designed for ages 10–12 and focus on fun, confidence, and low-prep planning.

If you’re still choosing a direction, you might also like 48 Popular kids’ Birthday Party Themes That Always Go Down A Storm.

Fun And Cool Birthday Party Ideas For Tweens

Have a browse and choose a theme that resonates with you and your tween or tween-to-be!

DIY Spa Day Party

A spa party is a tween classic for a reason. It feels grown-up, relaxing, and social, and it’s easy to set up at home.

Try simple stations like these.

• Mini facials
• Manicures and pedicures
• Hair braiding or nail art

Add relaxing music and fruit-infused water to finish the vibe.

To keep everyone laughing and busy while they’re pampering, use these Spa Party Games. They’re print-and-go, so you can set them out and let the fun happen.

Movie Marathon Sleepover

Turn your living room into a cozy movie space and let your tween choose a theme and a short list of favorites.

Set up blankets and pillows, create a snack station, and add a simple activity before the movie starts to break the ice.

For more ideas, see 14 Cool Things To Do At Sleepovers For Teens (Games, Activities And Other Fun Stuff).

Canvas Painting Party

This is a screen-free party that still feels modern and creative.

All you need are canvases, paints, brushes, and a little table protection. You can keep it free-form or follow a simple guided tutorial.

The best part is that everyone goes home with their own masterpiece.

Scavenger Hunt Adventure

Scavenger hunts are perfect for energetic tweens who love a challenge.

Create clues that match your tween’s interests, then split guests into teams to solve riddles, complete challenges, and hunt for hidden items.

This idea works indoors or outdoors and scales easily for different group sizes.

Strike a Pose Fashion Show

Set up a simple runway and let the girls play with style.

They can wear favorite outfits from home or create fun looks using props and accessories. Add a great playlist, encourage big poses, and take plenty of photos.

Easy extra: take a group photo and turn it into thank-you cards.

Jewelry-Making Party

This is a calm, creative option that works beautifully for tweens.

Set out beads, charms, string, and clasps so everyone can design a bracelet or necklace.

It doubles as a party favor, which keeps your planning simple.

The Great Tween Bake-Off

If your tween loves baking, this party idea is always a hit.

Provide simple recipes plus decorating supplies, then let the girls bake and decorate cupcakes or cookies.

It also helps with party food. Add a few savory snacks and fun drinks and you’re set.

Karaoke Dance Party

Use a karaoke machine or a TV app and create a playlist with your tween ahead of time so everything runs smoothly.

For extra fun, invite guests to dress like their favorite music stars.

Glow in the Dark Party

Glow parties feel instantly cool and are a big tween favorite.

You’ll need a room you can make dark, a black light, and neon props like glow sticks, bracelets, and sunglasses.

If you want a full step-by-step plan, use The Complete Guide To Hosting A Neon Party For Teens That Really Glows!.

Tween Olympics

Create a mini Olympics in your backyard or at a local park.

Try classics like sack races, tug-of-war, and relay races, then finish with a picnic and treats.

This is especially great for spring and summer birthdays.

Escape Room Experience

Escape rooms are a fun, on-trend choice for a tween birthday, especially for smaller groups.

Choose a theme that matches your tween’s interests and let the group work together to solve puzzles and crack codes before time runs out.

Don't forget to pin these ideas to your Pinterest board!