Birthday Parties

Have your child’s birthday party at the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center! Celebrate your child’s birthday Arboretum style with one of the following themes:

Signs of Nature
Be a nature detective! Although many animals inhabit the Arboretum, sometimes it is difficult to see them. Learn to fine-tune your observation skills while searching for clues that animals have left behind.

Slithery Snakes
Dive into this fascinating group of reptiles and learn what makes them so intriguing. Find out which snakes call the Arboretum home, and enjoy taking a guided walk in search of some slithering snakes.

Awesome Amphibians
Did you know frogs and salamanders belong to the amphibian group? Learn what these creatures have in common. We’ll explore the Arboretum’s forests and ponds in search of these amazing animals.

Brilliant Birds
The Arboretum is a wonderful place to learn about our feathered friends. Explore the characteristics of birds and experience the skill it takes to build a nest.

Incredible Insects – NEW!
Become an entomologist and learn what all insects have in common. Observe some captive insects and look for wild ones in their outdoor habitats.

 

How to schedule a party:

Fill out the birthday inquiry form. Date availability will be confirmed by the Birthday Party Manager within 2 business days. Your reservation is not confirmed until we receive full payment. The party manager will email you your party confirmation upon payment.

General information:

Times:

Days: Saturdays, Sundays and weekday afternoons at
Times: 10 a.m., 12:30, or 3:00 p.m.

Schedule:

Parties are scheduled for two hours.

  • 15 minutes before the party you may access the party room to setup and decorate.
  • 30 minute Naturalist program (begins 15 minutes after start of party)
  • 45 minutes for the celebration and refreshments
  • 30 minute Naturalist led tour (parents will designate someone to clean up party room during tour)

Fee:

$295 for members (Family Tree or above);
$350 for non-members;
$365 for Party plus Family membership.
(maximum of 20 children).
Payment in full is required to confirm your reservation.

Party Favor Options:

HANC souvenir party favor bags may be purchased starting at $5 each. Possible bag contents could include pencils, a bug box, magnifying glass, stickers, flashlight or various animal items. The bag contents vary.

Party Themes:

HANC provides a Naturalist led program (see theme options above). During the Naturalist’s lesson time, socializing and adult conversation must be limited to the hallway and/or other public spaces of the building. The Naturalist will require classroom silence for the lesson.

Refreshments:

Refreshments are only permitted in the party room. Alcohol is not permitted. The Arboretum does not provide refreshments.

Set up:

You may arrive 15 minutes before your party to set up. The Arboretum will provide tables, table coverings and chairs. You are responsible for providing and setting up decorations, refreshments, paper goods, and utensils. No silly string, confetti or tape on the walls.

Dress:

Arboretum parties always have an outdoor component. Children should dress for a short hike outside (closed toe shoes are best)

Chaperones:

Parent/chaperone supervision during the birthday party is required. Children are not permitted in the Discovery Room without parent supervision.

Rainy Days:

The Arboretum will provide ponchos to the children to walk in a light rain. In case of severe weather an alternate indoor program is provided.

Mosquitos:

The Arboretum will provide mosquito repellent as needed.

Cancellation Policy:

For a 50% refund of your party fee, cancellations must be made in writing and acknowledged by the Party Manager no later than 10 days in advance.