Party Like a (Camp) Rock Star

It's mid-July, which means that for those of us with kids, we are most likely knee-deep in VBS (Vacation Bible School for the uninitiated) or some form of camp. And the summer juggernaut that is making every teen/tween swoon is Disney's Camp Rock. I can't go anywhere without seeing those Jonas Brothers plastered onto some kind of item. Tar-jay seems to be the exclusive carrier of everything from acoustic guitars to bedding, or maybe it seems that way because I'm there way too much. Jonas who?? Hello, they've done Oprah!! So of course, what would be more appropriate than to have a camp-themed party?

Check out Celebrate Express's party packs, guitar pinanta and goody favor packs for one-stop party shopping.







Party City also has an extensive section, at least ours does. But if you are like me, trying to save a little coinage, mix and match your supplies with solid colors. Have a few items to set the tone like invitations and stickers, but use solid color plates and napkins.

Decorations
Depends on if you go with the color of the party supplies (pink, purple and teal) or with the Camp Rock logo, which is red and yellow. Either way, lots of streamers and balloons in your color scheme is the easiest way to go. At a past party, I went to the local thrift store and purchased old 45's and used silly-putty to put them all over the walls, which would work for this party as well. Inflatable guitars and microphones (we find ours at Party City) scattered around will inspire even the wallflowers.

Activities
Obviously you can watch the movie, or you can get them really moving. Break out the karaoke machine and lots of tunes and have them sing and dance the night awau. Have a dance and talent competition, or even host a sleepover. If you have it, break out the game system and play Guitar Hero. Since camp always involves a craft, a smaller group can decorate rock star T-shirts. Go to your local craft store and load up on sequins, crystals, iron-ons, and fabric markers.

Remember your age group, Pin The Tail and Musical Chairs is NOT happening.

Party Menu
Feel free to cheese it up in the food department with lots of camp foods. Trail mix and s'mores make great snacks; have a hot dog/hamburger buffet, with sides of beans, corn on the cob, mac and cheese etc. served on plastic cafeteria trays. If you are feeling even more creative, make guitar-shaped cookies. And if you just HAVE to have a tricked-out cake, try this one at FamilyFun.

Goody Bags
I'm just not a fan of the pre-packaged party sets, like the one pictured above, since I can make the same set and spend less. For a younger crowd, you can purchase the stickers, but use musical-themed items like pencils and notepads. Some teens may view goody bags as kiddish, so save money by sending guests home with some of your decor items like the inflatables, or any crafts they make. Burn your music CDs and send them home with a copy of the party music.

Ok, so in the spirit, I couldn't resist looking at real campy-camp stuff too. Be warned, this is not for the faint of heart, these ideas actually involve taking the kids outside.

I love the Kids Party Fun site because they list tons of themes and great ideas for each one. Check out the Camp Out Party. And over at FamilyFun, the Backyard Camp-Out may be a little more managable. Then check out their cakes, a camp fire and a camp-out.