A Garbage-Themed Children's Birthday

The heat of summer is here — and so is the stink of garbage, when it bakes a bit too long in the sun. While the offensive scent might be off-putting to some, it inspired others like Kate and Jim McMullan to write a book entitled I Stink about a ravenous and sassy garbage truck in New York City. The story caught the eye of one young boy who found the trash-collecting adventures of the animated truck irresistable. So much that when it came time to celebrate his birthday, a "stinky" celebration was in order, complete with a visit (and ride) from a local garbage collection service. 

Here's how it was done:

• The invitation was inspired by an illustration on the inside of the book. Make your own or order invitations here.

• Guests had to dress like garbage collectors, of course.

• Old newspapers and old coffee filters were used to make the decorations, like this welcome wreath. 

• Guests snacked on stinky foods like pizza, fly lollipops, and a "dirty" cake while sipping on custom sodas with labels like "Birthdays Stink" and "Another Year Odor." 

• Other beverages were served in mini trash cans. (Click here to buy the cans and tags online.)

• Kids enjoyed painting their own garbage truck pieces of art to take home. 

• They also had a lesson on environmental responsibility, learning why it was important to minimize trash... and how to sort it. They then got to take home their own mini garbage cans, while parents took home reusable cloth shopping bags, with customized tags.

Every month, Catch My Party will be sharing unique and entertaining party ideas here. Click here to purchase invitations and decorations for this party.