Trick candles? You sadist.

Make sure your munchkin’s big day is a blowout with these party ideas.

Send custom invitations known for colorful balloon and circus tent motifs by Letterspace (2246 West North Avenue; 773-276-5770). Then tell everyone to gather at Smarty Party for a backward-themed bash (kids compete in a backward relay race and sit under a table to eat upside-down cake).

If your home is party central, have Andrea’s Catering wheel in carts stocked with hot dogs, pizza, ice cream, popcorn, or cotton candy. Everyone will love hats from A Rabbit in the Hat handmade with vintage and vintage-inspired fabrics.

The grand finale is an animal show by Nature’s Creatures, during which kids learn about and touch creepy crawlies like snakes and tarantulas.

Total piece of cake.

FLY
Ellie Bellie Kids Personalized Capes
What: Colorful handmade capes have initials, lightning bolts, hearts, or stars.
Why: Here you come to save the day.
When: You’re feeling super.
Where: Online at elliebelliekids.com.

SECURE
Safety Squad
What: Technicians make house calls to inspect or help properly install car seats.
Why: It’s rather strapping.
When: Anytime you want to buckle down.
Where: Call 773-382-2833 for an appt.

SEE
James and the Giant Peach
What: Roald Dahl’s classic story retold as a play with puppetry by Marc Dunworth and music by Ralph Covert.
Why: Just peachy.
When: Thru Apr. 20.
Where: Apollo Theater, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., at Wrightwood Ave. Tickets at 773-935-6100 or online at ticketmaster.com.