• Try hosting a Mardi Gras themed party.mardi gras image by Edward Cooper from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>
  
  In the past, sweet 16 parties were reserved primarily for girls. Boys rarely had a party and when they did, the parties were low-key affairs, without the time and expense associated of planning a girl's party. Boys are now looking for ways to celebrate their sweet 16 in a new way. Use sweet 16 ideas specifically for boys that don't include the pink decorations or other items often associated with a girl's party.
  
  

Night on the Town

• Treat the birthday boy to a night out with his friends. Pick a location ahead of time, such as a football game, arcade, concert or favorite restaurant and plan his party around that location. Limit the party to a small number, preferably less than 10. Arrange for the boys to meet at the location at a specific time. Give the birthday boy enough cash to cover the event or arrange to leave your credit card behind as payment. Give the boys freedom to attend a game, watch a concert or play in the arcade and give them money for souvenirs or extra games. Pick the boys up at a central meeting place later in the night. Alternatively, treat the boys to a ride in a limo, rather than driving them yourself.
  
  

An Outdoor Retreat

• Plan an outdoor retreat that's just for the guys. Ask for help from other parents, especially when it comes to locating tents and camping equipment. Reserve campsites at a local campground or state park and set up the camping equipment before the party. Have parents drop their teens off at the campsite. If you plan on chaperoning the event, reserve a separate campsite away from the boys, to give them some more freedom and privacy. Give the boys snacks and easy-to-prepare food, such as hot dogs and hamburgers. Help them when needed, but also give them time to take part in the activities at the park, including swimming and hiking.
  
  

Mardi Gras Crazy

• Invite guests a Mardi Gras party for his sweet 16 party. Decorate the space in the classic colors of green, yellow and purple and include a few fleur-de-lis decorations. Ask guests to come in costume or pass out elaborate masks when they arrive. Turn the lights off, use strobe lights and bright lights and let the guests dance the night away to the music of a local DJ. Use plastic beads and chocolate candy coins as party favors for the guests.