Party ideas for 8 year old boy

[tot]

My son is 8 in September and I need a good idea for his birthday party. He starts a new school in September (and is a bit nervous about it) so I want it to be a success for him!!
Thinking of inviting a smaller group than I normally would and having a longer party, or day trip.... what do you think? Advice please!!

[Clary]

splash party?
Take him and a few pals bowling, to the cinema, to Quasar?
Or yes, how about a day out for just a couple of them to the zoo, or the Space Centre in leicester (sorry don't know where you are) or similar? Buy them all a slap-up lunch somewhere, my kids love that.

[DumbledoresGirl]

When ds2 was 8 we took the family and some of his friends bowling, returning home to a small party tea. I think bowling is quite a good idea as it seen as cool by the boys, no-one is usually much better than anyone else at it, and you have them contained in a small space!

[Iklboo]

If he's into footie - your nearest big local team might do tours. Don't think they're that dear and they get to look 'behind the scenes' & stuff?

[Clary]

oh yes football party was very popular for one of DS1's pals last year.
We did bowling for ds1 7th and I agree with DG, it's seen as cool but no-one was any good really! They all had fun.
We also had picnic at home (uggggh to bowling centre food).

[tot]

Wow... This is my first discussion question - I'm a Mumsnet virgin (heard about it on radio 2 last week - big discussion about thew 'G' word) and 3 people have resonded to me straight away! Thanks!! If only I knew of this before I turned to Vallium.... long story!
Back to my son's party... I'm in Solihull, by the way. Really want to do something that will impress his new mates... anymore ideas appreciated.

[Iklboo]

Go-karting? There might be a Daytona place near you and they do 'kiddie size' carts

[DumbledoresGirl]

Ooh yes I thought karting was cool when ds1 was 6. We found a local leisure centre did a karting party for children. Ds1 invited girls and boys though (ds2 is only into boys) and I think some of the girls were probably less thrilled by it but it was still a great way to spend a party and it was original amongst my son's group of friends.

Welcome to Mumsnet btw tot. You can usually be sure of a quick repsonse here!

[Iklboo]

Or your leisure centre might do 5 a side/trampolining/swimming parties??

[CountessDracula]

Isn't the snow dome near you? A skiing party would be cool!

[Bozza]

Good idea Countess. DS (who is admittedly only 5) went to a sledging party at a localish snowdome. He thought it was really cool.