3. Design your own mocktails
While alcohol doesn’t belong at kids’ birthday parties, bar and bat mitzvahs are a little different in that the reception is set up more like a wedding. Adults are typically served alcoholic drinks after the ceremony, at either an open bar or a cash bar. But you can make creative drinks for the kids, too, by creating your own non-alcoholic mocktails, such as these bar mitzvah mocktail ideas that include cotton candy, pop rocks, and other kid-friendly creations.
4. Set up a DIY photo booth
Hiring a professional photographer or setting up a photo booth is a must for capturing photos and videos of this once-in-a-lifetime occasion. You can create your own zero-gravity photo booth, which is among the most unforgettable bar and bat mitzvah ideas, to inspire lots of fun photos!
5. Have a dance contest
Bar and bat mitzvahs are known for their dancing, and it’s common to hire a motivational dancer to get all of your guests on the dance floor. From leading line dances to hosting dance contests, the right DJ or MC can keep the party hopping. But you don’t need a big-budget MC to get your aunts and uncles dancing. Set up Rock Band or Dance Dance Revolution on a home projector to hold a dance contest that guests of all ages can participate in.
6. Make your own marquee
Host your event at a live music venue or movie theater where the celebrant can see their name up in lights. Putting their name on the marquee is a special bar or bat mitzvah idea that’s perfect for a rock-n-roll or Hollywood-themed event.
7. Play carnival games
Rent a giant jenga set and other carnival games to give your bar or bat mitzvah a larger-than-life atmosphere. Even a dunk tank isn’t out of the question if you can find a willing volunteer. The possibilities for your bar and bat mitzvah ideas are endless!
8. Book a block of hotel rooms
In some families, relatives travel from far and wide to attend a bar or bat mitzvah. Don’t expect them to make all of their own travel plans and then leave them hanging after the ceremony. For the smoothest experience, book a block of hotel rooms near the event space, and make plans for a family dinner or brunch on the days surrounding the event.
