Recently, someone invited our little one to a kids Nerf blaster party, and he had an absolute blast! What a great party idea!

With that in mind, I wanted to create a step by step guide for parents who are planning a Nerf party for their kids.  This party theme is a surefire way to score cool-parent points! With excitement, foam darts, and endless energy, a Nerf birthday party guarantees a day of action-packed fun. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or prefer booking professional services, this guide has you covered.

Step 1: Pick the Perfect Location

• At Home: Transform your garden or a spacious room into a Nerf battlefield. Add obstacles like cardboard boxes, chairs, or even laundry baskets for cover. For the most fun, it is best to have plenty of space to run around.
• Venue Options: Think about renting a sports hall or a community center to ensure you have space to run around.
• Outdoor Spaces: Sharesy has lots of great options for outdoor spaces that would be just perfect for a Nerf gun party. From football fields to school playgrounds, Sharesy has you covered. Check out our party packages that have indoor venues with outdoor space as an add on. Check out this great party package at Chalgrove Primary School.
  

Step 2: Send Out Invitations

• DIY Option: Create your own invitations using colorful paper and Nerf-inspired designs. Draw dart blasters or use Nerf colors like orange and blue. Check out our guide on DIY invitations here.
• Online Option: Use digital tools like Canva or Adobe Express to design and send invitations quickly.

Be sure to include:

• Date, time, and location.
• A note to bring Nerf guns (if you're not providing them).

Step 3: Prepare the Equipment

• Nerf Guns: If you are doing a DIY Nerf party, provide a few extra nerf guns for kids who forget theirs, or rent them. Some services offer gun rentals and safety gear as part of a package.

Party Chest has a great package that includes everything you need to host a great Nerf party. We really like that they provide anti-fog safety goggles. They also include game and safety instructions. Plus, there is an electric pump for the inflatable obstacles! Check them out here.

• Ammunition: Stock up on plenty of darts! Make sure you get the soft tipped, foam darts for safety. They do tend to disappear quickly, so buy more than you think you'll need.
• Protective Gear: Safety first! Make sure all participants wear safety goggles. You can find lots of options online, if you are buying them.

Step 4: Set Up the Battlefield

• DIY Battlefield: Use cardboard boxes, inflatable barriers, or pool noodles to create a safe and dynamic battlefield. Label each area as "base camp, "battle zone" or "safe zone."
• Professional Services: Nerf Party Companies or local party planners can provide party packages. These packages usually include setting up the entire Nerf party for you. They come with all the necessary equipment and referees.

Step 5: Plan the Games

Here are some kid-approved Nerf games:

• Capture the Flag: Split into teams to capture the opposing side’s flag.
• Battle Royale: Inspired by video games, players compete to be the last one standing.
• Freeze Tag: Tag and freeze all opposing players with Nerf darts.
• Team Battle: Two teams go head-to-head to eliminate the opposition.
• Target Practice: Set up a shooting range with targets like plastic cups or balloons.

Step 6: Prepare Party Decorations and Food

• Decorations: Stick to Nerf colors—blue and orange! Use banners, tablecloths, and balloons. Hang dart targets on walls for added flair.
• Food Ideas:
• "Ammo packs" (small bags of popcorn or pretzels).
• "Target Cupcakes" with bullseye designs.
• Juice boxes labeled as "Power Packs."
• A Nerf-themed cake shaped like a blaster or dart.

Step 7: Make Party Favours

• DIY Favors: Fill goody bags with Nerf darts, mini squirt guns, and a slice of birthday cake to take home.
• Pre-Made Options: Purchase Nerf-themed party packs online or at party stores. Party Bags & Supplies have a great pre-filled Nerf Party bag.

Step 8: Wrap Up with a Bang!

End the day with a fun award ceremony:

• Give out prizes like "Best Shooter," "Most Energetic," or "Ultimate Team Player."
• Capture memories with group photos in costume or holding their blasters.

Final Tips

• Safety First: Set clear safety rules before the party begins. Make sure there are enough adults to supervise and keep everyone safe. Another thing to remember is to give clear instructions about getting participants to stop when signalled.
• Check out these key safety rules: Wear your safety goggles during battles. Do not aim at faces; aim for the body instead. Avoid climbing obstacles. Avoid physical contact with other players- look where you are going to avoid accidental collisions with others.
• Prepare for Cleanup: Assign "dart collectors" or offer prizes for kids who help pick up darts after the battle.

With this guide, you're ready to plan a Nerf party your kid and their friends will never forget. Whether you go full DIY or lean on professional services, the key is to have fun and let the foam darts fly! Ready, aim, party!