Party for a 6 year old - what has worked well for you?

[Dramateacher1]

Hi, my sons 6th birthday is approaching (well literally just after Christmas so always try to get prepared early!) and he’s not sure what he wants to do for a party. Most of the ones we’ve done since lock down ended have been in soft plays which he has loved, but wondered if anyone else had ideas? When I was little we always hired a hall and a magician/entertainer or a bouncy castle in the garden, does anyone still do this? Also, ideas for party bags and food much appreciated. Thank you.

Bouncy castle and a cake. I hate party bags full of crap plastic crap so I avoid wherever possible. At a push I have used paper bags and a small useful gift but I can't tell you how many shitty party bags I have binned in the years from other parties.

As bouncy castles are a little weather dependent I have also paid various entertainers (magician etc) because honestly I hate organising party games and little kids really want to run or play.

Afternoon party, 2-5, buffet food, entertainer, in a small village hall or similar. Easiest way to avoid having the monsters in your house tearing up and down the stairs destroying everything in their wake!

Does he have one or two friends he could do something special with? Like a proper day out somewhere/cinema and pizza/go karting etc or a sleepover? Or would he prefer a party with more people?

If the latter I'd say a bouncy castle is a good shout, our local leisure centre does them.

Popular around here are sports/ball parties or another activity like science class or arts/crafts.