Rainy day party

[McSleepy]

Hi

We have a birthday party organised this Sunday for my son's 2nd birthday. Our plan was just for the kids to play in the garden, have a picnic tea and cake. The only game I have planned is pass the parcel. There will be 13 children aged 1-7 but mainly 2 and 4 yr olds - all friends and family's children and their parents. However it is due to rain. I have been on weather watch all week and it is not getting better. Any ideas on what we could do? We have just enough space to get everyone inside at a push but not quite enough space for that many people and toys everywhere.
So far, I have gingerbread men decorating and pass the parcel. Is it okay to chuck the kids in the garden to play in the rain if I ask everyone to bring waterproofs? Do I build a massive den inside?

Any ideas?

Thanks!

We went to a rainy day party a few weeks ago. They had a big awning in the garden and the kids thought it was fantastic, really exciting. I would try and do that.

I wouldn't plan too many activities. Pass the parcel and musical statues. Have some kids music and let them just dance and play.

Is there any cheap village hall / church hall / scout hut near you that you could hire? They usually expect you to sort out all entertainments and food, but you're doing that anyway. There are some near me that are £20-30.

Thank you both! Local halls already booked unfortunately. I might see if I can borrow a gazebo or two and turn them into a den like the awning idea. What did the kids get up to under the awning? I have a sandpit and water play (for the ideal sunny party!!) so could put them under there?

Maybe stick a table somewhere with colouring/stickers/craft stuff on, that should occupy them for a bit. Maybe turn a bedroom into a big den, ball pit, playtent, mini trampoline/rocker, tunnel, etc. Do you have a toy library near?

Love the crafts idea, thank you. Yes, I could try turning my eldest son's room into a den...off to investigate.

It was actually meant for adults so had been decorated with a beach theme and just had seats and food, but the kids just sat in there eating and chatting. Sorry, not much help!