Your child’s birthday party can be an expensive day out, so why not host it at home instead? Between us, the Mykidstime team have hosted more home birthday parties than we can count, so we’ve pulled together our top 10 tips for holding your child’s party at home — from arrival times to cake, entertainment and everything in between.
To get your planning started, download our free Birthday Party Checklist, which will help you keep track of everything you need.
#1. Arrival and Pickup Times
Choose an arrival time that works with your schedule. If the party is on a school day, allow enough time after school for children to get there. If it’s a weekend, avoid a pickup time that’s too late in the evening — nobody enjoys having to go out at bedtime to collect their child.
#2. The Food
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f you’re using a caterer, ask friends for recommendations and book early. - If you enjoy cooking and want to cater it yourself, keep it simple.
- Most kids don’t eat much at parties, so small bites go down best.
- Prepare as much as you can ahead of the day.
Related: 11 Easy Party Food Recipes.
#3. Tableware
Paper plates and plastic cutlery are great for kids and cut down on the washing up afterwards!
#4. Back-Up Plans for Bad Weather
Irish weather can be unpredictable, so it’s worth having a back-up plan in case everyone ends up indoors for the day. Think about how you’d rearrange games, food and entertainment if the party has to move inside at short notice.
#5. Entertainment
Many families hire a bouncy castle or slide — book these early, as weekends get busy fast. If you can, look for an all-weather inflatable so you’re covered even if it rains. Ask friends or family to recommend a reliable supplier.
Have games ready for children of all ages. Classics like Pass the Parcel or Pin the Tail on the Donkey never go out of style. Here are 20 Fun Kids Party Games and Activities for more ideas.
Big garden games like Twister, Giant Jenga, Giant Snakes and Ladders or Giant Connect 4 are also a hit and easy to buy online.
Or, if you’d rather leave it to the professionals, consider hiring an entertainer — again, recommendations from friends and family are gold here.
#6. Keep a Record of the Day
Don’t forget to take photos! Between the food, the games and the general chaos, it’s easy to miss the moment — so ask another adult or an older child to take on picture duty.
Disposable cameras are also a fun option; children and adults alike enjoy snapping away, and they make a lovely keepsake afterwards.
#7. The Cake
We have lots of fun cake ideas made by real parents in our Birthday Cakes You Can Make collection — or ask friends and family for a cake-maker recommendation if you’d rather order one in.
Depending on the party theme, cupcakes can be a great alternative to a big cake, since kids tend to prefer small bites anyway.
You might also enjoy: These Fun Cupcakes Would Be Ideal for Dog Lovers.
#8. Do Something a Bit Different
A piñata or a chocolate fountain adds something a little different to the day and is always great fun for the kids.
#9. Party Bag Ideas
Consider craft-based activities so children get to bring their creations home with them. Here are more loot bag ideas if you’re looking for inspiration.
#10. Don’t Forget to Enjoy the Occasion
Above all, remember to enjoy the day — it’s a special one for you too as the parent! Don’t be afraid to delegate and ask for help so you get to celebrate as well, not just organise.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book entertainment for a home party?
Popular options like bouncy castles, entertainers and caterers tend to get booked up quickly, especially at weekends. It’s a good idea to reach out and book as early as you can once you’ve settled on a date.
What’s a good back-up plan if the weather turns bad?
Think through your space in advance — which games and activities could move indoors, and whether you’d need to adjust timings or numbers. Having even a rough plan means bad weather won’t derail the day.
Do I need to hire a caterer, or can I do the food myself?
Either works well. If you’re catering it yourself, keep the menu simple and prepare as much as possible in advance. Since most children eat lightly at parties, small bites are usually more successful than big dishes.
Should I get a cake made or bake it myself?
Both are great options. If you’d like something themed or elaborate, a recommended cake maker can take the pressure off. If you enjoy baking, cupcakes are a popular choice since kids often prefer small portions over a large slice of cake.
You Might Also Like
- 11 Easy Party Food Recipes
- 20 Fun Kids Party Games and Activities
- Birthday Cakes You Can Make
- 60 Perfect Party Loot Bag Ideas
Save This for Party Planning Day
Bookmark this page or download our free Birthday Party Checklist so you have everything to hand when you start planning your child’s next party at home.
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