Why Kids Parties Have Changed

Gone are the days when a packet of chips and a game of pass-the-parcel were enough to keep children entertained for four hours. Today's parents are looking for experiences rather than simple parties, while children expect activities that keep them engaged from the moment guests arrive until the last lolly bag is handed out.

The good news? Creating an unforgettable party doesn't require booking an expensive venue. With the right combination of entertainment, equipment, and planning, a backyard, local park, or community hall can be transformed into a party your child will remember for years.

1. The Classic Jumping Castle Party

If there's one party hire item that never goes out of style, it's a jumping castle. Children naturally gravitate towards inflatables because they provide hours of physical activity, excitement, and social interaction. Modern options range from traditional bounce castles to obstacle courses, themed inflatables, and giant water slides.

Many parents combine a jumping castle with:

• Party Tables and Chairs
• Marquee Hire
• Popcorn Machines
• Lawn Games

Best for: Ages 3–12

2. Backyard Carnival Party

Transform your backyard into a mini carnival complete with games, food stations and prizes. Carnival-themed parties work exceptionally well because children can move between different activities throughout the day, keeping them entertained for longer periods.

Popular carnival hire items include:

• Fairy floss machines
• Popcorn machines
• Giant lawn games
• Carnival-style games
• Prize wheels

The variety of activities helps keep guests engaged while creating a fun festival atmosphere.

Best for: Larger parties with 20+ guests

3. Outdoor Movie Night

Outdoor cinema parties have become increasingly popular for older children. As the sun sets, children can relax on bean bags and picnic rugs while enjoying their favourite movie under the stars.

To create the ultimate outdoor cinema experience, consider hiring:

• Projector Hire
• Outdoor Screens
• Party Lighting
• Bean bags and outdoor seating

Don't forget the popcorn.

Best for: Ages 8+

4. Water Slide Party

When it comes to Gold Coast summers, few party ideas are more popular than inflatable water slides. A water slide party combines outdoor fun with a practical way to stay cool. Many inflatable options include climbing walls, splash pools, and dual-lane slides to keep queues moving.

Before booking, make sure you have:

• Hose access
• Adequate drainage
• Safe setup space
• Shaded areas for guests

Pair with Marquee Hire to keep parents comfortable throughout the day.

Best for: Summer birthdays

5. Foam Party Experience

Foam parties are one of the fastest-growing kids' party trends across Australia. Using a professional foam machine, a designated play area fills with safe, non-toxic foam while music plays in the background. Kids can dance, run, and play for hours.

To complete the experience, consider adding:

• Speaker Hire
• DJ Hire
• Shade marquees
• Outdoor seating

Best for: Ages 5–14

6. Mini Festival Party

Why host a party when you can host a festival? Festival-style parties feature multiple activity zones, allowing children to choose how they spend their time.

Popular zones include:

• Food stations
• Jumping castles
• Face painting
• Lawn games
• Photo booths

Adding a Photo Booth Hire setup creates memorable keepsakes while giving children another activity to enjoy throughout the event.

7. Obstacle Course Challenge

Inflatable obstacle courses take traditional jumping castles to the next level. Featuring climbing walls, tunnels, slides, and race elements, obstacle courses encourage friendly competition while helping children burn off energy.

These are particularly popular for:

• School events
• Sporting clubs
• Community festivals
• Larger birthday celebrations

Best for: Ages 6–15

8. Character-Themed Party

Whether your child loves dinosaurs, princesses, superheroes, unicorns, or pirates, themed parties remain one of the most requested birthday options. Themed parties can include:

• Character entertainers
• Themed jumping castles
• Balloon installations
• Custom decorations
• Matching party furniture

The visual impact alone often makes themed parties a huge hit with younger children.

9. Live Entertainment Party

Sometimes the entertainment itself becomes the main attraction. Professional entertainers can keep children engaged while reducing the pressure on parents to coordinate games and activities.

Popular entertainment options include:

• Magicians
• Face painters
• Balloon artists
• Performers
• Musicians

Browse available Entertainment Hire options to find the perfect fit for your event.

10. The Ultimate Backyard Party Package

The most successful parties often combine multiple attractions into one complete experience.

A proven formula includes:

✔ Jumping castle

✔ Food station

✔ Outdoor games

✔ Photo booth

✔ Party lighting

✔ Seating areas

✔ Shade marquee

✔ Music and entertainment

This approach keeps children entertained while ensuring parents have a comfortable place to relax and socialise.

What Should You Hire for a Kids Party?

There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to planning the perfect kids' party. The right combination of entertainment, equipment, and party hire items will depend on several important factors, including the number of guests attending, the age of the children, the size of your venue, and the expected weather conditions on the day. Taking these factors into consideration before booking can help ensure a smoother experience for both children and parents.

Guest Numbers

The number of guests attending your event will significantly influence the type and quantity of equipment required. Smaller parties may only need a single entertainment feature, such as a jumping castle or a few lawn games, while larger celebrations often benefit from multiple activity zones to keep children entertained and reduce waiting times. As guest numbers increase, you may also need additional seating, food service areas, shade structures, and supervision to ensure everyone remains comfortable throughout the event.

Age Group

Children of different ages enjoy different types of entertainment. Toddlers and younger children typically prefer softer play equipment, themed jumping castles, and interactive games designed for their age group. Primary school-aged children often enjoy obstacle courses, water slides, and active entertainment, while older children and teenagers may be more interested in activities such as outdoor movie nights, foam parties, photo booths, or competitive games. Choosing age-appropriate entertainment ensures guests remain engaged and helps maximise the value of your party hire bookings.

Venue Space

Before booking any equipment, it's important to carefully assess the available space at your venue. Large inflatables, obstacle courses, and entertainment zones require sufficient clearance for safe operation and guest movement. Be sure to consider access points, overhead obstacles such as trees or power lines, and adequate space for seating, catering, and parent viewing areas. Measuring your venue beforehand can help avoid last-minute surprises and ensure all hired equipment can be installed safely.

Weather Conditions

The Gold Coast is known for its beautiful weather, but conditions can change quickly, particularly during summer storm season. Having a weather contingency plan in place is essential for any outdoor event. Many parents choose to arrange Marquee Hire to provide shade from the sun and protection from unexpected rain. This not only helps keep guests comfortable but also protects food stations, entertainment equipment, and party activities from weather disruptions.

By considering these four factors early in the planning process, you'll be better positioned to select the right combination of party hire equipment and create an enjoyable, stress-free experience for everyone involved.

Ready to Plan Your Child's Party?

Whether you're organising a backyard birthday, school celebration, or community event, the right combination of entertainment and party hire equipment can transform an ordinary gathering into an unforgettable experience.

Browse Rentsy's range of jumping castles, entertainers, marquees, photo booths, games, and party equipment to create a celebration your child will never forget.