Say "Happy Birthday" to a child - or "Congratulations" to a graduate - in a big way, with custom-made banners and signs for indoor and outdoor use.

Signage is available in a range of materials - and sizes from tabletop to rooftop - featuring simple letters to full-color art. Car and window lettering are also available.

Service is fast and friendly, with no minimums. Prices start lower than one might expect. Submit a short form to obtain a quick quote online.

Baskin Robbins and its 31 flavors have been around for a long time. It has never tried to be fancy, which is one reason we like its ice cream cake. It's good, basic, reasonably priced, and ready for pick up any time. Try the mint chocolate chip ice cream and oreo combo, or pick your own flavors; BR will decorate a cake on request.

The company has franchises everywhere, though recently a number have consolidated, changed hands, or just plain shut down. Visit the website to find a location near you.

Ben & Jerry's scoop shops use the freshest ingredients in their delicious ice cream, frozen yogurt, smoothies, and sorbet. Silly flavor names like Chunky Monkey and Apple-y Ever After make them as much fun to ask for as they are to eat! Cakes can be made to order, and a freezer is stocked with packaged treats.

Be sure to stop by on the designated day in April for "Free Cone Day," a tradition at Ben & Jerry's stores for over 25 years. No purchase necessary!

Ben & Jerry's scoop shops use the freshest ingredients in their delicious ice cream, frozen yogurt, smoothies, and sorbet. Silly flavor names like Chunky Monkey and Apple-y Ever After make them as much fun to ask for as they are to eat! Cakes can be made to order, and a freezer is stocked with packaged treats.

Be sure to stop by on the designated day in April for "Free Cone Day," a tradition at Ben & Jerry's stores for over 25 years. No purchase necessary!

Ben & Jerry's scoop shops use the freshest ingredients in their delicious ice cream, frozen yogurt, smoothies, and sorbet. Silly flavor names like Chunky Monkey and Apple-y Ever After make them as much fun to ask for as they are to eat! Cakes can be made to order, or chosen from the store's freezer case. For parties with a minimum of 50 guests, Ben & Jerry's can bring the store to you, serving cones, sundaes, Peace Pops, and more, at the location of your choice.

PartnerShops are one way Ben & Jerry's tries to make the world a better place "one scoop at a time." Proceeds from this Stadium Village location benefit Metro Community Investment, a coalition of four community agencies that help low-income residents on the road to financial stability and self-sufficiency. MCI also runs the store, providing training and employment for Twin Cities youth from low-income families. Partnershops are held to the same standard as other franchises, so the products are the same high quality. But knowing a purchase here directly benefits needy members of the local community is like getting an extra cherry on top.

Indulge in ice-cream heaven: Cold Stone Creamery, now serves up homemade ice cream and yogurt worldwide, with flavors made fresh daily in each store and your choice of mix-ins blended in on a frozen granite stone right before your eyes. From warm brownies (the national favorite) to gummy bears to fresh strawberries, your kids will find a flavor worth finishing their homework for.

Ice cream cakes serving six to nine start around $16.95. Order one custom-made at least one day in advance, or pick up one from the freezer case. Cartoon character decorations are available for an additional fee. Each location is a franchise, so prices and services may vary.

Members of all ages of the Birthday Club get a coupon for free ice cream on their special day.

Visit the website for locations and hours.

CostumeRentals, a joint venture between the Guthrie and the Children's Theatre, makes over 30,000 theatrical costumes for children and adults available to the public for rental - and even purchase, during an annual pre-Halloween sale in early October.

Costumes can be used locally, or shipped around the world. Schools, theaters, and non-profit organizations get a discounted rate and a longer rental period.

The costumes available comprise outfits from a multitude of productions, running the gamut of time periods and styles, and including both realistic and fantastical creations. A selection of masks, hats, and other accessories is also available.

Given the number of Dairy Queens around, it's obvious we Minnesotans just can't get enough of Blizzards, regardless of the season.

The majority of Dairy Queen restaurants are individually owned and operated franchises, so quality, hours, and offerings vary greatly. In those establishments with a full-menu (think chicken, hot dogs, burgers, and fries), kids get a chit to redeem for their dessert, which remains out of sight (if not out of mind), until the "healthy" part of the meal is eaten; and the chit can be saved for another visit if it's not. Most stores also offer a healthier substitute for French fries.

The chain is perhaps best-known for its ice cream cakes, and some stores offer discounts on birthday parties held on site.

Most Dairy Queen restaurants participate in annual (and more frequent) fundraisers for Children's Miracle Network.

The Dorothy Ann bakery - in one location or another - has been baking up a storm for more than a half century, but there's nothing stale about its up-to-date colorful and creative selection of birthday cakes! The cafe also offers coffee drinks, pastries, specialty desserts, soup and lunch items...and free wi-fi for customers.

Fun Jumps Entertainment, Inc. provides products for special events, including a large selection of moonwalks and other inflatables (starting at $99), rock walls, obstacle courses, slides, dunk tanks, carnival games, miniature golf, concession stands, and more. The company is insured and delivers locally. Visit the website for a complete list of products.

There's a secret hidden at the bottom of the heaping cones served up at the Grand Ole Creamery - a malted milk ball, which acts as a tasty plug prevent drips, in case there are any any gaps in the point of the waffle cone.

Little else is secret about this popular establishment. The accolades framed along the wall - and the lines extending out the door - are proof. The ice cream here is fantastic and the portions are generous, so the shop's devoted following keeps the friendly staff busy.

The store itself is also a treat, a throwback to the old-fashioned ice cream parlors of the past, with simple tables and chairs, and a selection of hard-to-find candy that adds to the retro feel. (Betcha say "I didn't know they still made that!" at least once.) The shop sometimes hosts live music.

Order custom birthday cakes, pies, and tortes in advance, or select one from the freezer case.

Find the party paraphernalia you're looking for online at iparty.com. Packages for birthday parties and special occasions could be a life saver when you're pressed for time and ideas.

Halloween costumes in all shapes and sizes are available here, too.

What's an Izzy? It's a little scoop - the cherry on top, if you will - served on top of Izzy's ice cream. Under it and in it, you'll find homemade artisan ice cream of the highest quality, available in dozens of tempting flavors.

Izzy's can also bring the goods to you, with its party catering, and flavors can be found at select area restaurants and grocery stores. Birthday cakes are made to order and start at $17 - but expect a $1.25 surcharge to add a message!

The cafe inside the Jerry's Foods "complex" - it seems like Jerry owns a fair hunk of this section of Vernon Avenue! - works just as well for fortifying kids with a quick snack as it does for filling them with a sit-down dinner...and both can be accomplished with limited time and money. The attached grocery store, florist, post office counter, and more also make it helpful for getting errands done on the run.

The cafe features sandwiches, burgers, dinner platters, and other simple and typical cafeteria fare, with inexpensive kids meals.

Families can fill up on frozen treats and comfort food at a former Standard Oil gas station restored with loving care. In addition to fast food fare like sandwiches, salads, hot dogs, nachos, and pizzas, this gleaming retro haven serves sundaes, packed pints, ices, and more - and makes custard birthday cakes to order!

The "garage" seating area has a few old games and kiddie rides - and old issues of Life and Look magazines to read while you're eating, to complete the trip back in time.

It's not easy to tell by the look and taste of the moist, delicious goodies for sale at Madwoman that all of the new bakery's products are made without wheat flour. And judging by the steady stream of customers, that's just what the doctor ordered.

Ground almonds and other inventive substitutes mean the products are low-glycemic and gluten-free, a boon for those with Celiac Disease, diabetes, food allergies and sensitivities, and dietetic restrictions, as well as those looking for low-carb, high nutrition treats, and healthy ready-made convenience foods including breads, pizzas, soup, quiches, granola, and many varieties of tea cakes and other baked goods.

Here's what else you won't find in the bakery: chemical sweeteners, high fructose corn syrup, excessive packaging, and preservatives. (And are you really going to miss 'em?) When possible, ingredients are fair trade, organic, and grown locally. Some products can be purchased online.

Madwoman patrons can sit at one of the tables in the cheery, clean cafe and enjoy tea, coffee, and low-glycemic drinks with their treats.

MagicBounce Party Rentals delivers a large variety of moonwalks, bounce houses, inflatables, obstacle courses, water slides, and concessions, and more for birthday parties, festivals, carnivals, fundraisers, and other events in Minnesota and Wisconsin.

The availability of the insured equipment can be checked online, and customers can order online or by phone.

Cruise down the aisles at Michaels Arts & Crafts Store and you can't help but be inspired by some of the projects that you can do at home with the kids, or use for classes, gifts, or parties.

The store stocks paints for all kinds of materials, including glass, fabric, and canvas; cake and candy making supplies; artificial flowers; loads of seasonal decor and crafts kits; and frames for those new masterpieces. In addition to project kits suitable for parties, there is also a selection of party supplies, including decorations and treat bag items.

Every Saturday from 10am-12n, the store hosts low-cost drop-in craft activities for ages five to 12. Other classes and events are offered throughout the year.

Party packages for ages four and up include a pre-selected craft project, or you can "create your own" with Michaels' party planners. You supply the refreshments and decorations; Michaels supplies a party room, craft materials, and instruction. Cost: Room rental $30, plus a per child fee of $6-$15, depending on craft project.

Cruise down the aisles at Michaels Arts & Crafts Store and you can't help but be inspired by some of the projects that you can do at home with the kids, or use for classes, gifts, or parties.

The store stocks paints for all kinds of materials, including glass, fabric, and canvas; cake and candy making supplies; artificial flowers; loads of seasonal decor and crafts kits; and frames for those new masterpieces. In addition to project kits suitable for parties, there is also a selection of party supplies, including decorations and treat bag items.

Every Saturday from 10am-12n, the store hosts low-cost drop-in craft activities for ages five to 12. Other classes and events are offered throughout the year.

Party packages for ages four and up include a pre-selected craft project, or you can "create your own" with Michaels' party planners. You supply the refreshments and decorations; Michaels supplies a party room, craft materials, and instruction. Cost: Room rental $30, plus a per child fee of $6-$15, depending on craft project.

Cruise down the aisles at Michaels Arts & Crafts Store and you can't help but be inspired by some of the projects that you can do at home with the kids, or use for classes, gifts, or parties.

The store stocks paints for all kinds of materials, including glass, fabric, and canvas; cake and candy making supplies; artificial flowers; loads of seasonal decor and crafts kits; and frames for those new masterpieces. In addition to project kits suitable for parties, there is also a selection of party supplies, including decorations and treat bag items.

Every Saturday from 10am-12n, the store hosts low-cost drop-in craft activities for ages five to 12. Other classes and events are offered throughout the year.

Party packages for ages four and up include a pre-selected craft project, or you can "create your own" with Michaels' party planners. You supply the refreshments and decorations; Michaels supplies a party room, craft materials, and instruction. Cost: Room rental $30, plus a per child fee of $6-$15, depending on craft project.

Cruise down the aisles at Michaels Arts & Crafts Store and you can't help but be inspired by some of the projects that you can do at home with the kids, or use for classes, gifts, or parties.

The store stocks paints for all kinds of materials, including glass, fabric, and canvas; cake and candy making supplies; artificial flowers; loads of seasonal decor and crafts kits; and frames for those new masterpieces. In addition to project kits suitable for parties, there is also a selection of party supplies, including decorations and treat bag items.

Every Saturday from 10am-12n, the store hosts low-cost drop-in craft activities for ages five to 12. Other classes and events are offered throughout the year.

Party packages for ages four and up include a pre-selected craft project, or you can "create your own" with Michaels' party planners. You supply the refreshments and decorations; Michaels supplies a party room, craft materials, and instruction. Cost: Room rental $30, plus a per child fee of $6-$15, depending on craft project.

Cruise down the aisles at Michaels Arts & Crafts Store and you can't help but be inspired by some of the projects that you can do at home with the kids, or use for classes, gifts, or parties.

The store stocks paints for all kinds of materials, including glass, fabric, and canvas; cake and candy making supplies; artificial flowers; loads of seasonal decor and crafts kits; and frames for those new masterpieces. In addition to project kits suitable for parties, there is also a selection of party supplies, including decorations and treat bag items.

Every Saturday from 10am-12n, the store hosts low-cost drop-in craft activities for ages five to 12. Other classes and events are offered throughout the year.

Party packages for ages four and up include a pre-selected craft project, or you can "create your own" with Michaels' party planners. You supply the refreshments and decorations; Michaels supplies a party room, craft materials, and instruction. Cost: Room rental $30, plus a per child fee of $6-$15, depending on craft project.

Cruise down the aisles at Michaels Arts & Crafts Store and you can't help but be inspired by some of the projects that you can do at home with the kids, or use for classes, gifts, or parties.

The store stocks paints for all kinds of materials, including glass, fabric, and canvas; cake and candy making supplies; artificial flowers; loads of seasonal decor and crafts kits; and frames for those new masterpieces. In addition to project kits suitable for parties, there is also a selection of party supplies, including decorations and treat bag items.

Every Saturday from 10am-12n, the store hosts low-cost drop-in craft activities for ages five to 12. Other classes and events are offered throughout the year.

Party packages for ages four and up include a pre-selected craft project, or you can "create your own" with Michaels' party planners. You supply the refreshments and decorations; Michaels supplies a party room, craft materials, and instruction. Cost: Room rental $30, plus a per child fee of $6-$15, depending on craft project.

Cruise down the aisles at Michaels Arts & Crafts Store and you can't help but be inspired by some of the projects that you can do at home with the kids, or use for classes, gifts, or parties.

The store stocks paints for all kinds of materials, including glass, fabric, and canvas; cake and candy making supplies; artificial flowers; loads of seasonal decor and crafts kits; and frames for those new masterpieces. In addition to project kits suitable for parties, there is also a selection of party supplies, including decorations and treat bag items.

Every Saturday from 10am-12n, the store hosts low-cost drop-in craft activities for ages five to 12. Other classes and events are offered throughout the year.

Party packages for ages four and up include a pre-selected craft project, or you can "create your own" with Michaels' party planners. You supply the refreshments and decorations; Michaels supplies a party room, craft materials, and instruction. Cost: Room rental $30, plus a per child fee of $6-$15, depending on craft project.

Cruise down the aisles at Michaels Arts & Crafts Store and you can't help but be inspired by some of the projects that you can do at home with the kids, or use for classes, gifts, or parties.

The store stocks paints for all kinds of materials, including glass, fabric, and canvas; cake and candy making supplies; artificial flowers; loads of seasonal decor and crafts kits; and frames for those new masterpieces. In addition to project kits suitable for parties, there is also a selection of party supplies, including decorations and treat bag items.

Every Saturday from 10am-12n, the store hosts low-cost drop-in craft activities for ages five to 12. Other classes and events are offered throughout the year.

Party packages for ages four and up include a pre-selected craft project, or you can "create your own" with Michaels' party planners. You supply the refreshments and decorations; Michaels supplies a party room, craft materials, and instruction. Cost: Room rental $30, plus a per child fee of $6-$15, depending on craft project.

Cruise down the aisles at Michaels Arts & Crafts Store and you can't help but be inspired by some of the projects that you can do at home with the kids, or use for classes, gifts, or parties.

The store stocks paints for all kinds of materials, including glass, fabric, and canvas; cake and candy making supplies; artificial flowers; loads of seasonal decor and crafts kits; and frames for those new masterpieces. In addition to project kits suitable for parties, there is also a selection of party supplies, including decorations and treat bag items.

Every Saturday from 10am-12n, the store hosts low-cost drop-in craft activities for ages five to 12. Other classes and events are offered throughout the year.

Party packages for ages four and up include a pre-selected craft project, or you can "create your own" with Michaels' party planners. You supply the refreshments and decorations; Michaels supplies a party room, craft materials, and instruction. Cost: Room rental $30, plus a per child fee of $6-$15, depending on craft project.

Muddy Paws closed it's Uptown retail location, but still offers 222 luscious flavors of cheesecake for wholesale clients, parties and weddings, fundraising, and shipping. Sales take place from its baking and corporate headquarters in St. Louis Park. Call to order.

This online novelty megastore sells party supplies, themed decor items, craft supplies and kits, costumes, toys and games, stuffed animals, and more. Much more. There's also a wide selection of holiday items covering everything from Chinese New Year to Thanksgiving, and lots of hats and bags suitable for customizing.

The prices are fantastic, but there's a catch: many items are offered only in bulk. It's still worth checking out! The customer service is responsive, and the shipping is fast.

This toy superstore has games, dolls, toys, crafts, bikes, and then some. All the supplies for baby can be found here, as well as the newest in electronic games for big brother or sister. A Kids R Us store, with a large selection of clothing and accessories, is nestled inside.

This toy superstore has games, dolls, toys, crafts, bikes, and then some. All the supplies for baby can be found here, as well as the newest in electronic games for big brother or sister. A Kids R Us store, with a large selection of clothing and accessories, is nestled inside.

This toy superstore has games, dolls, toys, crafts, bikes, and then some. All the supplies for baby can be found here, as well as the newest in electronic games for big brother or sister. A Kids R Us store, with a large selection of clothing and accessories, is nestled inside.

This toy superstore has games, dolls, toys, crafts, bikes, and then some. All the supplies for baby can be found here, as well as the newest in electronic games for big brother or sister. A Kids R Us store, with a large selection of clothing and accessories, is nestled inside.