Childrens Birthday Parties More Competitive Than Ever!

Almost nine in ten (89 percent) of parents polled in a recent survey said hosting kids’ birthday parties has become extremely competitive, with 57% saying there is more pressure than ever to throw the perfect party.

In fact, according to the study the average birthday now costs £524, including decorations, venue hire, food, gift bags and entertainment.

The survey, conducted by Oxygen, also revealed over half (57%) of parents say their children prefer to do an activity such as wall climbing (22%), trampolining (50%),laser quest (26%) go-karting (24%) and even trips to a theme park (29%), than old fashioned party games.

And this means it’s goodbye to crisps in bowls (26 percent), homemade ham sandwiches (25 percent) or hiring a clown (35 percent) or magician (25 percent) as they are falling out of favour at modern children’s parties.

Even face painting (13 percent) and big bottles of fizzy pop (20 percent) are now seen as old hat.

Overall, one in ten parents said they thought it was inappropriate to offer wine or beer to parents at the party.

Almost half (45%) of parents said trying to organise a birthday party was one of the most stressful things.

Among the list of modern day party stresses include kids having high expectations (26%), different food requirements and allergies (38% and having to invite their whole class (43%).

So much so that 36% have experienced a nightmare while trying to organise their childs’ party.

*The research of 2,000 parents was commissioned by Oxygen via Perspects Global in August 2024