How to Host a Kids Party That Adults Will Actually Enjoy Attending

Now that it’s summer, it isn’t as easy to avoid all those kids' parties your little ones are being invited too. Is it just me or does every 3rd-grader have a birthday party in July? Well, on the upside, it’s the best time of year for you to throw an amazingly fun kids party. This isn’t just fun for kids—we’re talking fun for you. That’s right! Kids parties can be a great time for adults, and it’s not even that hard to do. We’ve got a few suggestions that’ll have you on the road to a good time in no time.

Bubbles

The fact is everyone loves bubbles, they’re cheerful and disappear with little to no mess, which will make clean up at the end of your party much easier.

Face Paint

Kids and adults will love getting cool face paint. Hire someone to come by for a couple hours—or wrangle an artsy friend into the job for an afternoon—and have them do a little body art.

Glow-in-the-Dark

Is your party day-into-night? Consider prepping for twilight hours by having fun glowing things like stars and glow sticks on hand. A little glowing action makes everyone happy.

Bounce House

A bounce house is the perfect place for fun for both kids and adults. You’ll have to set up separate times so your wee ones don’t get trampled on—but there’s no way any of the adults will be able to avoid playing around like a kid.

Babysitter

Give parents a break with a dedicated babysitter or three. The peace of mind will give your older guests a chance to play instead of just the kids.

Stocked Bar

Don’t limit your drinks to sugary, syrupy fruit punch that kids are so often served. Have some drinkies on hand that adults can enjoy. Just make sure to label the alcoholic stuff “Adult Only”.

Proper Seating

This is something you might not think of as much for a children’s party (since kids are either running, sitting on the ground, or sleeping), but your adults will appreciate a decent chair and plenty of them. Even just a good collection of folding chairs will be enough to keep the adults comfy and chatty.

Simple Food

No need to get fancy with silly kid-themed foods or rich adult-taste dishes. Keep it simple with yummy snacks and foods like burgers or pizza.

Photo Booth

Make memories that last with a fun photo booth loaded with props and costumes. You can go all out renting a booth service or make your own with a fun backdrop (i.e. a sheet) and take candid pics with your camera or phone.

Goodie Bags

Have kid and adult versions of goodie bags for your guests to leave with. Give the kids candy and cheap plastic toys, and the adults mini bottles of booze and cheap plastic toys.

Clean Up Crew

If you can’t hire someone to take care of trash, designate a couple minutes every half hour or hour to pick up cups and plates. If you clean as you go, it’ll be easier for you and everyone else to relax instead of giving into the parental impulse to clean and control.