Let’s be real — weddings and large events in Melbourne hit differently. Whether it’s a garden ceremony, a warehouse reception, or a big family milestone, Melbourne has no shortage of stunning spaces. But if there’s one thing every millennial parent knows, it’s this: kids need entertainment.
Adults can happily mingle for hours, but kids? They last about 15 minutes before the fidgeting, snack-hunting, and “I’m bored” chorus begins. That’s why planning kid-friendly entertainment is an absolute must for any Melbourne event. Luckily, Melbourne’s event scene is stacked with options, indoor, outdoor, budget-friendly, and everything in between.
So if you’re prepping for a wedding, engagement, family reunion, or even a big cultural event, here’s how to keep the little guests smiling, engaged, and meltdown-free.
Top Indoor Activities for Keeping Kids Entertained
Indoor entertainment works best for events in reception venues, function halls, or anywhere with unpredictable weather (aka Melbourne, always). Here are foolproof ideas that kids love every single time.
1. Kids’ Play Corners
Transform a corner of the venue into a dedicated kids-only zone. Add colouring books, crayons, puzzles, blocks, stickers, and quiet toys — all the things that don’t make noise or create chaos but still keep kids busy. It's a low-effort, low-cost solution loved by both parents and wedding planners.
2. Mini Indoor Play Centres
Some Melbourne reception venues have adjoining rooms that can be used for kids’ play spaces. You can fill the room with soft mats, tunnels, pop-up tents, and age-friendly toys. For bigger events, hiring a mobile soft play setup is also super popular — especially for toddlers who need safe spaces to crawl, climb, and explore.
3. Entertainment Pros
Magicians, balloon artists, face painters, and kids’ entertainers are absolute hits. Melbourne has heaps of performers who specialise in weddings and large events — meaning they know how to keep kids entertained without disrupting the formalities.
If your event has breaks between speeches or long sittings, professional entertainers can help fill the gaps and keep the atmosphere fun.
Top Outdoor Activities for Kids at Events
Outdoor venues — parks, gardens, estates — are ideal for kid-friendly event setups. These ideas keep kids active, happy, and far from the dessert table until it’s time.
1. Activity Stations
Create mini stations like:
Bubble zone
Giant Jenga
Ring toss
Mini soccer
Chalk drawing corner
Stations give kids structured—but still flexible—activities to move through, keeping them stimulated and encouraging social play.
2. Scavenger Hunts
For weddings and family events in gardens or open parks, scavenger hunts are chef’s kiss perfection. You can theme them too — “find something blue,” “spot a flower,” “take a photo with a grown-up pulling a funny face.” Kids will burn energy while adults enjoy the event uninterrupted.
3. Nature Play Areas
Melbourne has some beautiful outdoor venues near parks or open spaces. If the location allows, kids can explore playgrounds or nature play areas while still being close to the main event. It’s relaxed, low-cost, and ideal for earthy, boho-style gatherings.
Bonus Idea: Backyard Events With Bouncy Castle Hire Melbourne
If you’re hosting a wedding or large event at home — or at a private venue with outdoor space — one of the best ways to entertain kids is with
bouncy castle hire Melbourne. It’s fun, safe, and guaranteed to keep kids bouncing (literally) for hours.
Kids adore having a designated play zone, and jumping castles naturally attract them like magnets. Parents love it because the entertainment is sorted, and adults get the chance to enjoy the event without constantly checking on bored kids.
Many bouncy castle hire Melbourne companies also offer themed designs — princesses, superheroes, jungle animals, dinosaurs — which instantly elevate your kids’ corner and tie it into your event vibe if you want. Some companies even offer combo units with slides, basketball hoops, or obstacles for extended fun.
Backyard weddings especially benefit from this setup. While adults socialise under the festoon lights or enjoy the reception music, kids get their own “mini event” happening a few metres away. It’s the perfect win-win scenario: peace for parents, fun for kids, and no stress for you.
Just make sure you:
Have enough outdoor space
Choose an age-appropriate castle
Book from reputable, insured providers
Add soft mats around openings for safety
Once the castle is up, your entertainment is sorted for the entire event.
Tips for Choosing the Right Kid-Friendly Setup
1. Match the entertainment to the venue
Indoor venues suit quieter activities, while outdoor spaces can host high-energy setups like
bouncy castles or sports games.
2. Think about the ages of the kids
Toddlers need soft, enclosed play. Older kids love challenges and interactive activities.
3. Keep it safe and visible
Always position kids’ zones near supervising adults but far enough from open bars, kitchens, or dancefloors.
4. Avoid activities that disrupt the event
No loud instruments, no messy crafts near the white dress, and no activities that pull focus during key moments.
5. Consider a mix of active and calm entertainment
Kids need bursts of energy and breaks. Think: jumping castle + colouring corner + lawn games.
Final Thoughts
Entertaining kids at weddings and large events doesn’t have to be complicated. With Melbourne’s endless supply of indoor and outdoor options — plus family favourites like
bouncy castle hire Melbourne — you can create an event that’s enjoyable for adults and magical for kids.
A little planning goes a long way, and when the kids are happy, the whole event flows better. After all, no matter how gorgeous the decor or how amazing the food is, a peaceful, kid-friendly environment is the unsung hero of every successful celebration.
<< Return to news