Do you prefer to host kids parties at home or an outside venue?

I actually enjoy the process of planning, decorating, and enjoying the party at home! And I can't stomach the cost of hosting a party elsewhere every year, so it works out.

We've done both, and for me it depends on the age/gender of the bday kid. I love planning at home parties for my little ones (and even my 5th grade daughter), but you couldn't pay me enough to entertain a bunch of 12 yr old boys at our house for my older son's bday, lol! As my big kids get older, we've moved away from traditional bday parties, and onto special bday outings where they can invite a few close friends to do something fun/special together.

Now that my kids are school age I am all about having their birthdays at a location. Entertaining kids, not toddlers, is hard work! Two hours at a party space and I don't have to clean my house before and after - sold!!

I used to do parties at home when the kids were young and I really enjoyed all the planning and decorating as well, but now that my boys are older it's much easier to find a venue to host the party and keep them busy. I'm hoping to move on to inviting a few friends for a special event or activity.

We usually prefer kids parties at home, though sometimes I wish my kids would choose to have it at a trampoline park or other outside venue - though more expensive, it is much easier! But, the bonus of the at-home party is you can more easily tailor it to your kids preferences, and have more control over scheduling, food, activities etc. Our kids tend to be more introverted, and prefer smaller gatherings at home. At younger ages (preschool and early elementary), birthday parties at a local park have been a huge hit! These also work really well for more casual weekday parties after school, if you're rather avoid a big weekend affair.