Ha-ya! The exciting part of having a martial arts party theme is that there are a variety of martial arts ranging from Kungfu, Judo, Taekwondo, Wushu, Samarais and Ninjas, Karate and the list goes on. Breaking boards, kicking, jumping, and tumbling with confidence. Not everyone will have a uniform or have training in martial arts so safety must be considered. You’ll need some space for this so a basement area - or if the weather is good, the backyard - are great places to hold this. If you can hold the party at a nearby martial arts school, the kids can see a demonstration by the black belts, have an introductory lesson and a sword can be used to cut the birthday cake. Uniforms A white shirt, white pants, a black belt, and a Karate headband will give each person a sense of confidence. Other coloured belts can be purchased for as little as $3 per belt. Activities Demonstration: For those who have uniforms and training, involve them in part of the demonstration of martial arts. It can range from the tumbling, kicks, punches, falls and breaking boards. Breaking Boards: Then allow others to try breaking boards. Make sure they give a “ha-ya” before they attempt. Give them three chances to either kick or punch the boards. Balsa boards are fairly easy to break and can be purchased at a local martial arts store. Relay Race: Agility and coordination are important in most martial arts. Divide people into two teams and have a relay of forward somersaults one way and then running back until the team finishes the relay. Sky high: Have a kicking contest of who can kick the highest. Menu When you think martial arts, you think Asia. So Chinese, Japanese and Korean food would be ideal, topped off with a fortune cookie. Decorations Put up a picture of Bruce Lee. Use red, white and black party cups, plates, napkins and balloons. Remember to have all kids bow to one another and as they leave the room. Respect and honor are the foundations of martial arts.