Gemma’s 5th Birthday Bash

Gemma, our youngest, turned five last week. As our last baby, it’s bittersweet because while we love her dearly and want to celebrate, we are melancholy at the thought of how old she has become. My my how time has sped up over the last few years!

When you think about it, five is a pretty big milestone birthday. Gemma is in her last year of pre school, starting kindergarten next year in a new school. So for her birthday celebration, we wanted to do something special. The SeaGlass Carousel at The Battery is such a neighborhood favorite, so with most of her friends living in our hood, it was the perfect choice.

I remember when the SeaGlass Carousel opened. It was on August 20th 2015, Ryder’s birthday, and we were some of the first people to ride this magical carousel! SeaGlass Carousel is unique, lacking the center pole of a traditional carousel. Instead, 30 massive fiberglass fish spin freely, while changing color. The LED light fixtures within each fish are designed to recall the bioluminescence found deep in the ocean, making the experience even more magical at night.

For Gemma’s special day, we opted for the Deep Sea Diver’s package, offering an hour and half in a reserved party area with shade-covered terraces. The adjacent 7-acre Battery Woodland is great for running around, playing or relaxing with friends. This package requires a minimum of 15 riders (kids or adults), 30 skip-the-line tickets + 30 regular line tickets, a designated party host, and goody bags for participants, including a special SeaGlass Souvenir Gift Bag (available as a party enhancement). We added-on a balloon artist and face painter who face painted all the little guests in between their rides on the carousel! Don’t worry, because the number of guests and tickets can be increased to accommodate as many party animals needed.

With a 10am start time, we picked up rainbow bagels for the kiddies, and coffee for the grown ups. I made Gem’s favorite cupcakes, to go along with some snacks and juice boxes. 30 minutes before the kickoff, we loaded up our car to drop off at the Carousel. Our party host and staff assisted with the load in and set up. And per Gemma’s request, mermaid and unicorn themed decorations and flatware made for the final touches.

Gemma and friends had a blast riding around on their favorite little fishies all morning long! Considering snow had fallen earlier in the week, we lucked with mild temperature and sun for this early spring jam. I know our newly five year old princess will remember this day forever! Happy Birthday Gem-Gem!!!