Planning a baby shower can be an exciting yet overwhelming task, especially when you’re looking for activities that will keep the guests entertained without resorting to traditional baby shower games. Let’s face it—while some people enjoy the typical baby shower games, others may feel uncomfortable or awkward participating in them. Whether it’s the host, the mom-to-be, or the guests, there’s a growing desire for baby shower activities that don’t involve structured, competitive games.
So, if you’re organizing a baby shower and want to make sure everyone enjoys themselves without forcing anyone into uncomfortable games, this article has you covered. In this guide, you’ll find 17 fun and interactive activities that keep the party lively while avoiding the usual game-filled scenarios.
We’ll explore various options that can be easily tailored to the space, time constraints, and the preferences of the mom-to-be. Each activity is designed to be flexible, ensuring that everyone has a great time without the awkwardness that sometimes comes with game-based events. So, let’s dive in and discover how to throw an unforgettable shower with activities that suit all kinds of guests.
Factors to Consider Before Planning Baby Shower Activities
Before we dive into specific activities, let’s consider a few important factors that will guide you in selecting the right options for your baby shower. Understanding these elements ensures that your chosen activities will work well within the context of the event and create a pleasant atmosphere for everyone.
Location
The location of the baby shower plays a significant role in determining which activities will be most effective. A spacious venue might be perfect for activity stations or larger group activities, while a more intimate setting could work better for smaller-scale crafts or personal activities. Consider how much space you have, and plan accordingly.
Length of the Event
The duration of the baby shower is crucial when deciding which activities to include. If the event is going to last several hours, you’ll want to incorporate both shorter, quick activities and longer, more involved ones. If time is limited, focus on simpler activities that don’t require extensive setup.
Budget Considerations
Activities vary widely in terms of cost. Some, like advice cards or a guestbook station, can be done with minimal expenditure, while others, such as customized onesie decorating kits or a craft and sip session, may require more investment. Be sure to consider your budget and the essential elements (such as food and decorations) before committing to any specific activities.
Level of Preparation
The level of preparation required can vary greatly depending on the type of activity. Some activities, such as a photo booth or advice card station, are quick to set up and don’t require much work. Others, like a onesie decorating station or a craft and sip session, may need more preparation. Be mindful of how much time and effort you’re willing to invest in setting up activities and try to balance between low-effort and more involved options.
The Mom-to-Be’s Preferences
Finally, always consider the wishes of the mom-to-be. Is she someone who loves crafty activities or prefers more relaxed, conversational events? Ask for input, or if you’re organizing the shower as a surprise, try to think about what she would enjoy. While the baby shower is for her, it’s important to ensure the activities align with her personality and style.
1. Craft a Baby Shower Quilt
One of the most heartwarming activities you can host at a baby shower is quilt-making. This idea involves guests creating individual quilt squares, which can be later stitched together to form a beautiful baby blanket. This activity holds special meaning as it provides both a creative outlet and a lasting keepsake for the mom-to-be.
How it works:
- Provide fabric squares, fabric markers, and paint pens.
- Guests decorate a square with designs, quotes, or even a message for the baby.
- After the shower, the host assembles the squares into a quilt.
This is a sentimental and practical activity, as the quilt can be used for years to come and will always carry the memories of the baby shower.
2. Create a Personalized Guestbook
Instead of the traditional guestbook, where guests just sign their names, consider a more creative alternative. A personalized guestbook activity can be anything from a large wooden letter of the baby’s first initial to a framed canvas where each guest leaves a fingerprint as a lasting memory.
How it works:
- Set up a station with a wooden letter or canvas and provide colorful ink pads.
- Guests leave their fingerprint (or even a written note) on the canvas or letter.
- This serves as a meaningful and decorative keepsake that the family can cherish for years.
A personalized guestbook is a great way to involve everyone while creating a beautiful decoration for the baby’s nursery.
3. Onesie & Bib Decorating Station
If you’re looking for a baby shower activity that’s both fun and practical, consider a onesie and bib decorating station. Guests can decorate plain onesies and bibs using fabric markers, stamps, or iron-on transfers. Not only does this activity keep everyone engaged, but the mom-to-be will also leave the shower with a stack of adorable personalized baby clothes!
How it works:
- Set up a station with plain onesies, bibs, fabric markers, stamps, and iron-on designs.
- Guests can get creative and decorate the onesies/bibs as they wish.
- The onesies and bibs can then be gifted to the mom as a practical, thoughtful present.
This is an especially great activity for larger baby showers, as it allows guests to participate individually, and the products can be used immediately when the baby arrives.
4. Photo Booth with Fun Props
A photo booth is a classic activity that adds a touch of fun and allows everyone to capture great memories. You can easily set up a photo booth with a simple backdrop, some fun props, and a camera or smartphone.
How it works:
- Designate a corner with a backdrop (baby-themed, floral, or neutral colors).
- Provide an assortment of props like hats, boas, funny glasses, and baby-themed items.
- Encourage guests to take fun pictures and share them on social media using a hashtag you create.
Not only does the photo booth entertain guests, but it also gives everyone the opportunity to take fun, silly pictures as keepsakes from the event.
5. Advice Cards for the New Parents
Instead of traditional games, advice cards can be a meaningful and interactive way to involve all guests. Whether it’s parenting tips or funny anecdotes, advice cards provide valuable words of wisdom for the new parents and make great keepsakes for the family to revisit in the future.
How it works:
- Print out advice cards or purchase themed ones from an Etsy shop.
- Place them at each table, encouraging guests to write down their best parenting advice or funny stories.
- The mom-to-be can keep these cards and refer to them whenever she needs a little advice or support.
You could also have guests write advice on blank cards and later compile them into a scrapbook for the family to treasure.
6. Diaper Messages for Midnight Changes
This activity combines humor with practicality, making it an excellent choice for a baby shower. Guests write funny or encouraging messages on the outside of diapers, which the mom-to-be will later discover during late-night diaper changes. This is a perfect blend of sentimentality and usefulness, and it adds a personal touch to an otherwise routine task.
How it works:
- Provide guests with a selection of diapers and permanent markers (Sharpies work well).
- Encourage guests to write short, funny messages or words of encouragement on the diapers.
- Remind guests to write their messages higher up on the diaper to avoid any mishaps when the diaper is used.
This activity is a lighthearted way to add humor to a tired mom’s day and can be a great conversation starter.
7. Baby Wishes and Blessings Stones
If the mom-to-be is someone who enjoys nature or spirituality, a baby blessings stone station can be a meaningful and unique activity. Guests can decorate river stones with messages, blessings, or prayers that the mom can keep as a memento. This activity is thoughtful and symbolic, offering good vibes and well-wishes for the new arrival.
How it works:
- Provide guests with smooth, clean river rocks or stones and permanent markers or paint pens.
- Guests write messages of love, blessings, prayers, or good wishes for the baby.
- The mom-to-be can later keep these stones in the nursery or place them in a special jar to always remember the love and support surrounding her.
This is an especially heartwarming activity for guests who want to share their hopes and well-wishes in a meaningful way.
8. Creative Dessert Station
For those with a sweet tooth, a creative dessert station is a perfect addition to any baby shower. This could be a cupcake decorating station, a cookie decorating station, or even a candy station where guests can customize their own treat. This is an excellent activity for guests of all ages, and it can double as a take-home favor, making it both fun and practical.
How it works:
- Set up a station with plain cupcakes, cookies, or even a bowl of candy.
- Offer various frosting, sprinkles, edible glitter, and other decorations for guests to use.
- Have a designated area where guests can package their decorated treats to take home as a favor.
For a unique twist, consider making the treats baby-themed (e.g., rattle-shaped cookies or pacifier cupcakes). This is an activity everyone can enjoy, and it satisfies a sweet craving while allowing guests to showcase their creativity.
9. Create a Baby’s First Memory Book
Encourage guests to contribute to a baby memory book where they can jot down their hopes, advice, and messages for the new baby. Not only is this a heartfelt way to include everyone in the baby’s early life, but it also provides the parents with a treasured keepsake they can look back on as the child grows.
How it works:
- Prepare a memory book with blank pages or spaces for guests to write messages, advice, or predictions for the baby.
- Provide fun prompts, such as “What do you think the baby will be when they grow up?” or “What’s the best parenting advice you can give?”
- The mom-to-be can read these heartfelt messages later, keeping them as a treasured memory of the people who supported her during the pregnancy.
This activity works well for all types of baby showers and provides an opportunity for guests to participate in the baby’s life in a special way.
10. Build a Baby’s First Library
A wonderful activity that also contributes to the baby’s future development is to have guests bring their favorite children’s books to the baby shower. This activity not only helps the baby develop a love for reading but also allows each guest to share a book that’s meaningful to them, whether it’s a childhood favorite or a cherished memory.
How it works:
- Ask guests to bring a children’s book instead of a traditional gift. The invitation can mention this request so guests are prepared.
- Have a designated table or area where the books can be displayed during the shower.
- If desired, guests can sign their names and include a short note inside the book to personalize it for the baby.
This activity builds a wonderful foundation for the baby’s first library and creates an emotional connection between the baby and each guest.
11. Advice for New Dads
While a baby shower is often focused on the mom-to-be, it’s important to recognize and support the dad-to-be as well. An advice station just for new dads can be a thoughtful addition, where guests share their best tips for navigating fatherhood. It can help foster a sense of community and inclusion for the dad and make him feel more involved in the celebration.
How it works:
- Provide cards or a space for guests to write down advice specifically for the new dad.
- Topics could include managing the first night home, coping with sleep deprivation, or funny stories from their own experiences.
- These cards can be given to the dad-to-be as a keepsake or used as part of a larger display at the shower.
This activity not only adds depth to the shower but also gives the dad-to-be useful and funny advice that he will treasure during the early days of parenthood.
12. Baby Shower Time Capsule
A baby shower time capsule is a unique and fun way for guests to leave messages, predictions, and keepsakes for the baby to discover in the future. This activity is perfect for creating a nostalgic moment in the baby’s life and provides everyone with a chance to leave a personal mark on the child’s journey.
How it works:
- Provide guests with cards or small items they can place inside a box or container.
- Encourage guests to write letters to the baby, make predictions about their future, or include small keepsakes like baby socks, photos, or meaningful trinkets.
- Seal the time capsule and set a date in the future when it will be opened (e.g., the baby’s 18th birthday).
This activity is a fantastic way to make the baby shower more memorable and ensures that everyone at the shower can be part of the baby’s future milestones.
13. “Write a Letter to the Baby” Station
Instead of traditional games, a “write a letter to the baby” station allows guests to write heartfelt letters filled with advice, love, or personal anecdotes. These letters can be kept by the parents for years and opened when the child reaches a certain age. This is an activity that creates lasting memories and connects the child to the people who celebrated their arrival.
How it works:
- Set up a table with stationery, pens, and prompts for guests to write a letter to the baby.
- Provide guidance on what the letters can include, such as parenting tips, hopes for the future, or fun memories from the guest’s own childhood.
- Collect the letters and give them to the parents to store until the child is old enough to read them.
This activity serves as a meaningful keepsake that both the child and the parents will cherish for years to come.
14. Create a Baby-Themed Art Station
If you have guests who enjoy getting creative, a baby-themed art station can be a fun and interactive way to engage everyone. Whether it’s painting, drawing, or crafting, guests can make art that reflects the theme of the baby shower or simply express their creativity. The finished artworks can be framed and used as decoration for the nursery or saved as keepsakes.
How it works:
- Set up an art station with supplies such as canvases, paints, markers, and brushes.
- Provide prompts for guests to create baby-themed art, such as painting a picture of a baby onesie or a nursery rhyme scene.
- Guests can also create a collaborative piece of art where everyone contributes a small section of a larger design.
- Frame or compile the artwork as a gift for the parents-to-be.
An art station is a great way for guests to unleash their creativity, and the end results will make for memorable and sentimental pieces to cherish.
15. Baby Name Prediction Cards
Before the baby’s arrival, everyone loves to guess what the baby’s name will be. While many baby showers play a version of this as a competitive game, it can easily be transformed into a fun, non-competitive activity. Instead of focusing on the competition aspect, simply have guests predict the baby’s name and share their guesses. This adds an element of fun and sparks conversation throughout the event.
How it works:
- Provide guests with cards to write down their predictions for the baby’s first and middle names.
- Include space for guests to write why they chose those names or any interesting reasoning behind their guesses.
- The parents can read these predictions later and laugh at some of the wild guesses, or they may even choose one of the suggestions!
This is a lighthearted way to engage guests and get them talking, and it creates a fun memory for the new parents when they see all the name ideas their friends and family came up with.
16. Memory Lane: Share Baby Stories
A fantastic way to bring everyone together is by asking guests to share their favorite baby or parenting stories. This activity allows for laughter and bonding, as everyone can reminisce about their experiences with babies, whether it’s from their own childhood or their own experiences as parents. It also gives everyone a chance to bond on a deeper level, beyond just the baby shower itself.
How it works:
- Set up a casual, no-pressure area where guests can share their stories—this could be done in small groups or one person at a time if the group is small.
- Ask guests to share funny or heartwarming baby stories, their first memories with babies, or pieces of parenting wisdom.
- If you want to capture these stories, you can write them down or record them so that the parents-to-be can listen to or read them later.
This activity is a great way to create lasting memories that everyone can look back on with affection.
17. Co-Ed Baby Shower Mixer
If you’re hosting a co-ed baby shower, you can focus less on traditional games and more on mingling and celebrating. Co-ed baby showers often feature food, music, and casual conversation, where everyone—regardless of gender—gets involved in the celebration. This type of shower eliminates the pressure of forced game participation and creates a more relaxed atmosphere for everyone.
How it works:
- Create a welcoming environment where both men and women can mingle freely. Set up a casual seating arrangement with comfortable chairs and a nice atmosphere.
- Offer drinks, snacks, and music to keep things flowing smoothly.
- If desired, have a few low-pressure activities or conversational prompts available for guests who prefer structure.
A co-ed shower puts the focus on celebrating the parents-to-be with friends and family in a relaxed and natural setting. It’s especially great for those who want a more laid-back celebration without the typical game-centered format.
18. “Build-A-Baby” Station
Here’s a playful and creative activity that gives guests the chance to create their vision of what the baby might look like! At a Build-A-Baby station, guests get to draw or craft a baby from various materials, such as construction paper, fabric, markers, and stickers. It’s an entertaining way to spark creativity and get guests thinking about the baby in a fun, whimsical way.
How it works:
- Set up a station with supplies like construction paper, fabric, glue, scissors, and markers.
- Guests can “build” a baby by cutting out shapes and adding accessories like hats, bows, or tiny clothes.
- You can turn it into a creative contest by asking guests to vote on the most adorable or funniest baby creation.
This activity is perfect for sparking laughter and creativity, as everyone will enjoy creating their own version of a “perfect baby.”
19. Diaper Raffle for Practical Gifts
Instead of asking for traditional gifts, a diaper raffle offers a clever way to get what the new parents truly need: diapers! The diaper raffle can be a fun way to stock up on baby essentials, and it also allows guests to participate without being forced into games.
How it works:
- Ask guests to bring a pack of diapers (or wipes), and provide them with a raffle ticket for each pack they contribute.
- At a designated time during the shower, draw a winning ticket and award a prize to the lucky guest.
- Clarify on the invitation whether you have preferences for diaper brand or size to make it easier for guests to purchase the right diapers.
The diaper raffle is an easy, effective way to collect a much-needed baby supply and keep the focus on practicality while adding a little excitement to the mix.
20. Craft and Sip Session
If you’re looking for a way to combine creativity and relaxation, a Craft and Sip session can be the perfect activity for your baby shower. This allows guests to craft something memorable while sipping on their favorite beverages, whether it’s tea, coffee, or wine. Craft and sip sessions often feature easy, beginner-friendly projects, making it accessible to everyone.
How it works:
- Choose a simple craft project, such as creating a baby mobile, decorating picture frames, or making a personalized mug.
- Hire a local craft instructor or ask a crafty friend to guide the guests through the project.
- Provide drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) and snacks to keep the atmosphere relaxed and social.
The Craft and Sip session provides a great bonding opportunity and ensures that guests leave with a handmade keepsake.
21. Baby Shower Bingo (with a Twist)
While traditional baby shower bingo involves guests marking off items they believe will appear in the gift pile, you can add a twist to this classic by incorporating personalized or creative prompts. Instead of just standard items like “onesie” or “bottle,” try more unique predictions or observations about the baby shower, the parents-to-be, or the event itself.
How it works:
- Create bingo cards with fun, quirky items that might happen during the shower, like “someone cries when opening gifts” or “guest mentions the baby’s name.”
- Guests can mark off the items as they happen throughout the shower.
- Offer a prize for the first person to complete a row or the full card.
This variation adds a playful touch to the event and encourages everyone to stay engaged with the flow of the party, without forcing them into a typical game structure.
22. Baby Shower Advice Cards for Couples
Sometimes the best advice comes from a variety of perspectives. Advice cards for couples allow everyone to share their wisdom and experiences with both parents-to-be. These cards are an ideal way to involve all guests, including those who might not be as familiar with the mom-to-be but still want to offer support and guidance to the parents.
How it works:
- Provide guests with cards where they can write advice or personal anecdotes related to parenting or relationships.
- Ask them to share their thoughts on handling the challenges of parenthood, maintaining a healthy relationship, or dealing with sleepless nights.
- The parents can later read these cards together and reflect on the valuable wisdom shared.
This activity is especially great for co-ed showers, as it allows both the mom and dad-to-be to receive guidance from their friends and family members.
23. DIY Baby Hat Decorating Station
Another creative and hands-on activity is to have guests design their own baby hats. This simple yet adorable project can be done quickly and results in cute, personalized baby accessories that can be used right away. Guests will love creating something tangible for the new baby, and the mom-to-be will appreciate having extra hats to keep the baby cozy and stylish.
How it works:
- Provide plain baby hats, fabric markers, and embellishments like bows, appliques, or pom-poms.
- Set up a crafting station where guests can decorate their hats as they wish.
- Once finished, the hats can be gifted to the parents for their newborn to wear.
This activity not only offers a chance for guests to get creative, but it also provides the parents-to-be with practical items that can be used right away. Plus, it’s perfect for a smaller or more intimate gathering.
24. Baby-Themed Scavenger Hunt
If you’re hosting a baby shower in a spacious location or outdoor setting, a baby-themed scavenger hunt can be a fun and engaging way to get everyone involved. This activity works well when you want a little movement and exploration but without the formal structure of traditional games.
How it works:
- Create a list of baby-related items or clues hidden around the venue. For example, “find a tiny pair of socks” or “find a diaper bag.”
- Divide guests into teams, and have them race to find the items or complete the challenges.
- The team that finds the most items or finishes the hunt first wins a prize.
A scavenger hunt provides an excellent opportunity for mingling, teamwork, and a little friendly competition, without forcing guests into a game that feels overly structured.
25. “Guess the Baby’s Weight” Contest
A lighthearted guessing activity that doesn’t require any awkwardness or forced participation is a “Guess the Baby’s Weight” contest. Guests can write down their best guess for the baby’s weight at birth, and once the baby arrives, the parents can announce the winner.
How it works:
- Ask each guest to write down their guess for the baby’s birth weight and birth date.
- After the baby is born, the parents can reveal the winner and send a small prize to the lucky guest.
- This activity keeps everyone invested and excited for the arrival of the baby, while being non-competitive and relaxed.
It’s an engaging activity without the pressure, and it adds a personal touch to the countdown to the baby’s birth.
26. Baby Shower Journaling Station
A simple but heartfelt activity, journaling allows guests to write down their thoughts, feelings, and experiences related to parenthood or the baby. This activity is an intimate way for everyone to leave their mark on the event, while providing the new parents with a beautiful keepsake they can reflect on for years to come.
How it works:
- Set up a cozy, quiet corner with journals, pens, and maybe some prompts to guide guests, such as “What advice do you wish you had received as a parent?” or “Describe your favorite childhood memory.”
- Encourage guests to write their personal thoughts, feelings, or memories related to parenthood.
- After the shower, the parents-to-be can read through the journal entries and keep them as a memento.
A journaling station offers a meaningful way for guests to share their wisdom, hopes, and advice with the parents-to-be, and it’s something that can be cherished for years to come.
27. DIY Baby Shower Favors
If you’re looking to engage guests in a creative activity while also giving them something to take home, consider a DIY favor station. Guests can craft their own baby-themed favors to take with them, which can double as a fun activity and a gift in one.
How it works:
- Set up a table with materials for guests to create their own baby shower favors. Some ideas include making scented candles, decorating small jars of honey, or creating bath salts in baby-themed containers.
- Provide simple instructions and all the supplies needed for the guests to craft their own unique favors.
- Guests can then package their creations and take them home as a keepsake.
DIY favors not only give guests something to remember the event by, but they also add a personal touch to the shower, making the day even more memorable.
28. Baby Shower Playlist and Dance Party
Create an upbeat atmosphere by curating a baby-themed playlist or inviting a DJ to set the mood. This activity doesn’t require much involvement from the guests, but it can energize the event and encourage people to relax and dance if they’re feeling festive.
How it works:
- Compile a playlist of songs with themes related to babies, parenthood, or fun, lively tunes.
- Play the music throughout the event and encourage guests to get up and dance or sing along if they feel like it.
- For an added bonus, you can even have a mini “dance-off” or lip-sync battle for extra fun.
This is a fantastic way to keep the energy high, especially if you have a lively group. A dance party is a fun, informal way to celebrate without forcing anyone into a structured game.
29. Baby-Themed Trivia Station
Instead of the usual baby trivia game, set up a trivia station where guests can answer baby-related questions at their own pace. This low-pressure activity can provide some fun facts about babies, and guests can participate whenever they feel like it without the need for a formal competition.
How it works:
- Create a trivia station with a list of questions about babies, baby names, or parenting facts. You can even include a few humorous or quirky questions to keep things fun.
- Guests can come up to the trivia station at any time during the event and answer questions individually or in small groups.
- If you want to add a competitive twist, offer small prizes for guests who answer the most questions correctly.
This activity is great for sparking conversations and allowing guests to have a little fun while learning new things about babies.
Conclusion
By opting for these alternative activities, you’re ensuring that the baby shower is engaging, fun, and memorable without relying on traditional, competitive games. Each activity offers a unique experience that allows guests to participate at their own comfort level, ensuring that everyone has a good time. From DIY crafts and personalized keepsakes to fun trivia and dance parties, these activities will help create a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere for the mom-to-be, the dad-to-be, and all the guests involved.
No matter the size of the shower, these ideas can be adapted to fit your theme, location, and budget, making your baby shower a celebration full of creativity, love, and joy.
