Bowling Parties for Adults

• Bowling is not only for kids. In fact, a bowling party is wonderful way to bring adults together for a fun time. Ask each guest to chip in for a "grown up" prize such as a bowling bag or an engraved bowling trophy. At the end of the party, tally up all the scores and award the prize to the highest-scoring guest.
  Take the fun factor up a notch by choosing an additional theme for your adult party, for example a time period. Since bowling became particularly popular during the 1950s, ask your guests to wear 1950s style apparel to the party. Ideas include poodle skirts and duster coats for women. Men should wear leather jackets with tight fitting jeans and slick their hair back. Use language of the time period when writing the invitations, including messages such as "Gee-whiz, we would love for you to join our bowling party!" or "Calling all guys and dolls!" If possible, serve the guests 1950s treats like soda floats and burgers served in plastic diner baskets. Other ideas include a disco or 1980s rock 'n' roll inspired bowling party.
  
  

Bowling Parties for Children

• Incorporate some light arts and crafts into a child's bowling party. As the children arrive, provide each of them with a plain white T-shirt and fabric markers. Ask them to write their name and favorite number on the back of the T-shirt. Suggest that the kids think of a team name to include on their shirt, for example "The Lucky Strikes," or draw a large bowling ball and several pins across the front of the shirt. This project will feed the kids' competitive spirit, making them feel as if they are part of a professional bowling team.
  Use simple decorations that you can quickly put up and take down at the bowling alley. Hang red, white and brown balloons, which are similar to bowling balls in shape and color, to the tables and chairs around the lanes you will be using. In addition, bring a disposable bowling-themed tablecloth to cover the tables at which kids will be served lunch or snacks. If you wish to have table centerpieces, place a cluster of different colored plastic bowling pins at the center of each table.
  Many kids love leaving a party with a goody bag. Stuff the bags with gumballs, which will remind the kids of bowling balls. Other ideas include miniature toy bowling sets, bowling stickers and temporary tattoos or rubber band bracelets decorated with bowling pin images.