Party Advice needed

[MaggieW]

Up until now we've done small parties for DS at home, but for his 5th birthday we're planning on hiring a hall and bouncy castle. However, need some guidance on how long party should last - apart from the bouncy castle there's a big outdoor area which, if it's dry, they can go out into and kick some balls around and have a run. We'd prob do a couple of party games, and again would welcome advice on the best sort of games for around 25 children. Will do pass the parcel as he loves that, but other suggestions needed!

Personally, would never do one for more than 2 hours.

Dd1 was invited to a 4 hr paert last yera, and she ended up only staying for half of it.

They'll probably e hahppy with the bouncy castle on it's own, but could do pass the parcel, musical statues, pin the tail. Last year one of dd1's classmates had a mini treasure hunt which they loved.

Two hours absolute max.
Musical chairs,musical statues

Definitely two hours, just over one hour for castle and games, then food then cake then SEE YA!

Thanks for all that. Malory - what's sleeping lions please? (I don't get out much!!)

sleeping lions: All children have to lie down like a sleeping lion. When anyone moves they are out. Last one to move is winner! Great for a last game so parents arrive to pick up from totally quiet room.
Musical chairs has gone well, also a treasure hunt is good. Pin the tail I think is tricky for that many.

Totally agree. 2 hours max before I meltdown.

Sleeping Lions is wicked for the last game.

Musical statues, pass the parcel, 'what's the time Mr Wolf?'

A pinata (sounds like pineeata, I can't spell it), worked well for us, you can buy them on line, the boys especially loved it. Anything they can bust to pieces with a stick works like a dream.

2 hours is my advice too. Would recommend having a loads of extra games planned/written down as I always get through much more than I think and have to wing it!

Don't let anyone talk you into longer!!!!!