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Indoor vs. Outdoor: Planning Your Kids Birthday Party?

by

Vicki Atkin

Planning your child's birthday party is fun. But with summer coming soon, many parents wonder: Should I book an indoor place or have the party outside? Both options offer lots of fun for you and your guests, but each comes with its own pros and cons. Whether you want to rent a local hall or use a nearby park, we can help you find the best place for your party.

Here’s what to keep in mind when deciding between an indoor and outdoor venue for your little one’s big day.

The Perks of Outdoor Parties

There’s something undeniably magical about a summer party held outdoors. Sunshine, fresh air, and wide open spaces make for an extra special backdrop to a child’s celebration.

Pros of an Outdoor Venue:

  • Room to run and play – Parks and green spaces allow kids to burn off energy with games, sports, or even a bouncy castle.
  • Cost-effective options – Many outdoor spaces are free or inexpensive to reserve compared to traditional party venues.
  • Beautiful natural setting – Nature does half the decorating for you! Add a few balloons or bunting and you're party-ready.
  • No noise limitations – Music and excited voices are less likely to bother neighbours when you're in an open space.

Cons of an Outdoor Venue:

  • Unpredictable weather – We all know how unpredictable British weather can be. A sunny forecast can quickly turn into drizzle or downpour.
  • Limited amenities – Depending on the location, there might be no toilets, running water, or shelter.
  • Setup and clean-up logistics – You might need to bring your own tables, chairs, and decorations. Make sure to pack everything up afterward.

Our Outdoor Party Tip:

If you choose the outdoor option, always have a backup plan. Think about using a gazebo or marquee for shade and shelter. Check out Sharesy for our kids' party packages. You can book a party venue such as a sports hall or a community centre that has outdoor space too!

The Perks of Indoor Party Venues

Indoor venues are a classic choice for good reason. From soft play centers to community halls for rent, they provide structure and convenience. This is helpful, especially when you need to entertain a large group of active children.

Pros of an Indoor Venue:

  • Weather-proof – No worrying about rain, wind, or unexpected heatwaves. You’re in control.
  • Facilities included – Most indoor party venues include seating, tables, toilets, and kitchen access.
  • Theme-friendly – From pirate adventures to fairy princesses, indoor venues make it easy to decorate and bring your party vision to life.

Cons of an Indoor Venue:

  • Space limits – Some halls or soft play centres have a max capacity, which could be tricky for larger guest lists.
  • Cost considerations – Booking a hall or venue can be more expensive, particularly on weekends during peak party season.
  • Less flexibility for outdoor games – If your party plan includes football, water balloons, or large inflatables, you’ll be more restricted indoors.

Indoor Party Tip:

Book early! With summer parties in high demand, local halls for hire can fill up fast. Use a trusted platform like Sharesy to compare venues and secure your spot in advance.

Indoor vs. Outdoor: Planning Your Kids Birthday Party?

Choosing What’s Right for Your Family

When choosing between indoor and outdoor venues, think about what will work best for your child’s personality and your party priorities.

  • Worried about the Weather? Stick with an indoor venue hire to eliminate stress.
  • Budget-conscious but creative? Go for a park picnic with DIY games and decorations.
  • Need a stress-free experience? Look for halls for hire that offer packages including setup and entertainment.
  • Have a backup plan? Outdoor can be a winner with a nearby indoor option on hold. Sharesy has lots of amazing community venues that have outdoor spaces. So you can have that outdoor party without the stress of worrying about the weather.

Check out these event spaces that offer the best of indoor and outdoor party experiences:

Hollickwood Primary School- Party Package: Main Hall and Outdoor Space Hire

Hollickwood Primary School- Hall for hire
Sports field for hire

Summerside School- Party Package: Main Hall and Outdoor Space Hire

Summerside School Hall for hire
Playground for hire- kids party package

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing the perfect children’s party venue. It’s all about balance—between convenience, cost, comfort, and, of course, fun!

At Sharesy, we make it easy to find local venues for hire that suit your needs. No matter if you want a sunny outdoor party or a comfortable indoor celebration, we can help you. Check out our listings of community centers, school halls, and unique spaces in the UK. Find the perfect place for your child's next big day.

Remember: With a little planning, any venue—indoor or outdoor—can become the backdrop to lifelong birthday memories.

Need help choosing the perfect venue? Check out Sharesy and explore available halls for hire in your area today.

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