We love a park party over here at Mamma Knows, and after hosting a few ourselves we realised there are quite a few things to keep in mind and remember on the day. So we thought we’d share our Ten Hot Tips to ensure your park party goes off without a hitch!

1. Check Park Regulations and plan ahead:

Always check the park rules before you dive into planning! Some places need permits, while others have restrictions on music or alcohol. A little research goes a long way! And totally visit your park and get an idea of where and how you want to set up on the day.

2. Get There Early:

Arriving early is the secret sauce! If you’ve got your eye on a prime picnic spot or undercover area, snag it before the crowds. Popular parks fill up fast and you wouldn’t want to be scrambling for another plan on the day of your event.

3. Prepare for Weather:

Mamma knows the weather in Melbourne can be a drama queen! Be prepared for sun, rain, or anything in between. Have a backup plan up your sleeve—like a cozy indoor hideaway!

4. Set Up a Comfortable Area:

Comfort is key! Pack picnic blankets, comfy chairs, and tables for a setup that feels like home. If you’re hosting a big crew, spread out the food and drinks so everyone can dig in!

5. Plan the Menu:

Keep the menu simple and scrumptious! Think finger foods, sandwiches, and easy-peasy salads. Don’t forget those ice packs to keep everything fresh and cool!

Pro tip: Pick up some ready made platters and you’ll hardly have to lift a finger when it comes to food prep!

6. Bring Entertainment:

Bring the fun! Plan some games or activities to keep the energy up. Bubbles, frisbees, or a portable speaker for tunes can turn your party into an outdoor bash! Or outsource the entertainment and chose one of our party entertainers!

7. Add Some Decorations:

Balloons, streamers, bunting; all add that extra bit of spark to your celebration. But make sure all decorations are well secured to ensure any wind doesn’t blow away your hard work, or create litter! Or you can outsource that too! We’ve got a bunch of suppliers listed here.

8. Prepare for Cleanup:

Cleanup can be a drag, but it doesn’t have to be! Bring rubbish bags and recycling bins to keep things tidy. Tupperware is a genius way to take home leftovers and dirty utensils!

9. Consider Accessibility:

Everyone should feel welcome! Make sure your setup is accessible for all guests. Check for accessible restrooms and paths so no one is left out of the fun!

10. Safety First:

Keep a first aid kit handy for any little mishaps. Remind everyone to keep food and drinks away from the wildlife—no one wants a surprise visit from a cheeky critter!

Bonus Tip:

Check out our park party checklist for all the things to bring!

Mamma hopes these tips help you throw a fabulous park party! They’re a fantastic way to celebrate without turning your home into a mess or dealing with venue costs. Keep these nuggets of wisdom in mind, and your park party will be unforgettable and oh-so-fun for everyone involved!