by Sophia Tesch

Created on: December 31, 2010   Last Updated: January 02, 2011

Whether it is Thomas, The Little Engine that could or any other lovable locomotive locomotion commotion Trains are a fun and easy theme for a birthday party. Engineer the perfect party with these essential tips.

The Invitations

Getting the word out is essential to party success Evite.com has some great paperless options for invitations. Add a personal touch with a photo of your little cutie with this charming invitation from

Tinyprints.com. To make some handcrafted invitations try these delightful images from spoutonline.com and thomasandfriends.com for an inexpensive interactive way to create invitations for friends.

The Cake

The do it yourself cake baker will love this Cake Pan . This fabulous cake pan has individual pieces for each guest. Other fun ideas for guests to be chew-chewing on is the Choo-Choo Train Set Pan. If it’s Thomas the Train that your child loves this Cake kit is just the ticket. When home made and kid created is the way to go try this recipe from sproutonline.com.

When purchasing the cake consult with the baker two weeks in advance of the party with a minimum lead time of 3 days to be sure your cake comes into the station on time.

The Food

Small Gouda cheese wheels and crackers can create a fun train themed treat. As can these train lollipops. Use this great shaped cookie cutter  to create steam engine shaped sandwiches, cookies and crisp rice treats.  Pretzel sticks can become tracks for various train shaped snacks. This handymold can be great for chocolate or try different gelatin flavors for a fabulous giggly gelatin train.

The Location

Make a treasured memory and take the party on location to a Railroad park or museum. A park that has train rides will provide amusement for all ages. Older children may enjoy an impressive trip to any of the various Rail Museums throughout the country you can find one near you at RailMuseums.com.

The Decorations

For a one stop shop try Oriental Trading Company’s Themed Party Pack which includes many of the party essentials for 8 guests. Trainparty.com offers a great selection of many train themed décor choices and information about rentals in several areas. Party City gas several railroad items that will keep you on track to the perfect party presentation!

The Favors

For an unforgettable favor presentation purchase train whistle, perhaps a mix CD of your child’s favorite railway related tunes could add a special pizzazz that will get rave reviews from your guests. Printable coloring sheets can be rolled up and wrapped with ribbon. Older children may enjoy puzzles, crosswords or word finds with a train related theme. Several free printable sheets are available online.

Birthdayinabox.com has a fantastic ready made gift box perfect for any train themed birthday party.  

A fun filled birthday party is just around the bend. You’ll be on the right track with these easy tips for a Train themed birthday party everyone will enjoy. 

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