Thursday, 01 September 2011

A guide on how to throw a birthday party for children in Lusaka

by Bodil Sörensen

How to throw a birthday party in Lusaka? Well, there could be the same arrangements as in Sweden but will most likely be something totally different. There are a few reasons for that. 1. The weather. Accept for a few months of occasional rains (or continuously if very unlucky), Zambia is nice and sunny all year around. 2. People usually have big gardens and in case of rain, big houses. 3. You most probably have an inviting, sparkling pool. And 4. It is nice to get to know people, kids and adults, from different countries. Here comes a few tips and contacts when planning your party.


For jumping castles and water slides.

LEISURE HIRE LTD, +26 0979523232 or +26 0211257513, www.leisurehire.co.za They are located on 2 Lunzua rd off Addis Ababa rd and will deliver and pick up you jumping castle for a extra fee.

SHATINAS CRAFTS & PARTY FUN, +26 0979 386816 or +26 0211263265, is located on 237A Bishop rd in Kabulonga. They have a smaller choice and you will have to pick up and return the castle yourself but they are cheaper in price than Leisure Hire. There is a big variety in prices, styles and sizes. To rent one during a weekend, which is more expensive than weekdays, comes from ZMK 130.000 to 500.000.


Clowns, face painting and balloon figures.

'FUN WITH CLOWNS’ provide clowns doing face painting and balloon figures and different games. Call +26 0977 450141 for more information and prices.
Cakes and goodie bags.

If you do not want to make the cake yourself the ‘cake lady’ MICHELLE makes excellent, American style ones. You can have any picture copied as a decoration on the cake. Your child’s photo, Cinderella or Spiderman are just a few examples. The midsize cake is ZMK 180.000 and should serve 20 people. You have to pick up the cake yourself and she is located opposite Sandy’s Creations near Lilayi on Kafue rd. Call +26 0955 762208 for more information.


Goodie bags, candy and small gifts can be found in stores like GAME, SHOPRITE, SPAR and PICK & PAY. LEISURE HIRE recommends ‘SMILES’ located on plot 6468, Great East rd, near Arcades roundabout.

Other ideas are pool bathing, treasure hunts, egg hunts (around Easter), candy hunts (all year!) and various games. The Swedish tradition of fish pond fishing for your goodie bag is very appreciated.

Good Luck with your party, big or small!

//