The Children’s Museum of Eau Claire now offers themed birthday parties which include a parade through the museum’s may exhibits like Bitty City and Water Works.

Remember when you were a kid and every birthday was a momentous coming-of-age event that warranted cake, a few presents, and a sleepless slumber party with a few of your closest pals? That was great and all, but these places in the Chippewa Valley offer kids today the joy of a custom-made birthday no matter what their style. Whether your child is an outdoor enthusiast, fearless thrill-seeker, or sports-minded maniac, we’ve got an option for him/her.

Eau Claire Express Baseball Game
If a young lad or lady celebrates their birthday between May and August, an outing to an Express game is great fun for the whole family. If you call the Express office and notify them of a birthday during a particular game, they will offer you a few perks. First, the guest of honor’s name will be announced over the speaker. Second, for $10 a person, the birthday party can reserve a section in the Express play area. These special seats include access to the bouncy house and hot dogs, popcorn, and soda for each guest.

Children’s Museum
CMEC staff provides royal treatment for the guest of honor and up to 12 of his/her friends. Parties can expect admission to the museum for an unlimited period of time and 90 minutes of exclusive party room usage complete with set-up and clean-up by the staff. The party room will be decorated in one of five kid-approved themes and the birthday boy or girl can expect to be the center of attention with a parade through the museum, a sign posted in the Bitty City News Gallery, and a happy birthday announcement over the museum’s PA system. Paper party goods are provided and a $25 deposit is required to secure time and date. Prices are $100 for CMEC members and $125 for nonmembers.

Irvine Park
Irvine Park in Chippewa Falls is 318 acres of recreational bliss for Chippewa Vallians. It is also an ideal place to hold celebrations from weddings to family reunions, and, yes, even a child’s birthday party. With its several playgrounds, sprawling lawns, and zoo, it makes for the perfect play area for kids of any age. Irvine Park offers picnic areas and a historical pavilion to house your birthday event. Guests will not be at a loss for things to do as they can hike or ski the trails, explore the Irvine Park museum and schoolhouse, or simply enjoy the scenic view over Glen Loch Dam. Use the park for whatever you please, as ole’ William Irvine intended. Call 723-0051 to reserve a shelter or for more info.

Coon Fork
Sometimes all you need for a memorable birthday party is a few friends and the great outdoors. Coon Fork beach and campground provides the perfect inexpensive way to enjoy some nice weather and celebrate another year older. The park offers 54 reservable campsites (with or without electricity), boat landing, swimming beach, volleyball court, playground, and boat and canoe rentals. Whether you’re looking for a day long beach party or an overnight camping excursion, Coon Fork can accommodate. Contact the Eau Claire County Parks and Forest Department for more info.