Mermaid Birthday Party Ideas: Under the Sea Table, Food and Favors

A mermaid party is a dream theme for kids and grown ups alike. Iridescent colors, seashells, pearls and a little sparkle turn any table into an under the sea scene. Whether you are planning a mermaid birthday for a toddler or a shimmering party for older girls, these ideas cover decor, food and favors.

What colors are used for a mermaid party?

The classic mermaid palette is aqua, teal, lavender and blush pink, finished with iridescent and gold accents. For a softer look, go with pale pink, lilac and pearl white. Whatever you choose, keep the metallic finish consistent, either gold or silver, so the table looks intentional.

How do you decorate for a mermaid birthday party?

A mermaid party decor kit is the fastest way to set the scene, with the main decor pieces coordinated for you. For the table, a mermaid party tableware set covers plates, cups and napkins in the theme. Layer each plate on a scalloped shell charger plate for an elevated look that works for a kids party or a mermaid themed baby shower.

Add seashells, pearls and a few strands of iridescent tinsel down the middle of the table. A sheer aqua or lavender table runner looks like water and costs very little.

What food do you serve at a mermaid party?

Ocean themed food is part of the fun. Blue gelatin cups topped with gummy fish, goldfish crackers and sea glass candy are easy wins for kids. Serve them in dessert cups so each guest has their own portion. Rainbow fruit cups look like treasure and give parents a fresh option. Our fruit cup ideas post has simple ways to make them look special.

For the adults, shrimp cocktail fits the seaside theme perfectly when served in shrimp cocktail glasses. Use pearl fancy toothpicks on cheese bites, fruit skewers and cupcakes for a little mermaid treasure in every bite.

What are good mermaid party favors?

For younger kids, a small bag with a seashell, a pearl bracelet, mermaid stickers and a few candies is always a hit. Mini favor boxes filled with sea glass candy are easy to set at each place. For older girls, a DIY perfume bar becomes a mermaid potion station where each guest mixes her own scent and takes it home in a little bottle. It is a party activity and a favor in one.

What activities work at a mermaid party?

Treasure hunts with gold coins, a decorate your own crown or shell craft and a mermaid tail photo spot all keep kids busy. If you have a pool or splash pad, a swimming mermaid party is the ultimate version of the theme. For a calmer activity, a story time with a mermaid book works well for toddlers.

Mermaid party checklist

• Mermaid party decor kit
• Mermaid tableware set
• Scalloped shell charger plates
• Seashells, pearls and iridescent tinsel for the table
• Dessert cups and fruit cups
• Pearl fancy toothpicks for bites and cupcakes
• Favor boxes or a perfume potion station
• A treasure hunt or craft activity

Frequently asked questions

What age is a mermaid party good for?

Mermaid parties are most popular for ages two to ten, but a more elegant version with shell chargers and pearl details works for teen birthdays, bridal showers and baby showers too.

How do I make a mermaid party look expensive on a budget?

Spend on the pieces guests see up close, like shell charger plates and the cake, and keep everything else simple. Repeating one metallic finish across the table makes it look polished.

What cake works for a mermaid party?

A buttercream cake in ombre aqua or lavender with a chocolate mermaid tail, seashell candies and pearl sprinkles on top is a favorite and easy for most bakers.

Find every under the sea piece in the mermaid and under the sea party collection, or explore all themes in Shop by Theme.