Weddings are magical for adults, but for kids? Well… let’s just say sitting quietly through speeches and formal dinners isn’t exactly their idea of a fun day out. If you're an engaged couple in Ireland planning a family-friendly celebration, keeping the little ones entertained can make your day smoother, quieter (in the best way), and a lot more joyful.
Rather than trying to keep kids busy in the corner, why not make them feel like a special part of the day? Here are some creative (and stress-saving) ways to include children in your wedding entertainment, keeping both them and their parents happy.
1. Create a Kids’ Zone
Set up a dedicated area just for children. Think of it as a mini wedding within the wedding. Fill it with:
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Colouring books and crayons
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LEGO or building blocks
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Soft play mats and cushions
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Wedding-themed crafts (like “decorate your own crown” or “make a card for the happy couple”)
You can even hire a local childminder or creche service to supervise. Many Irish wedding venues are happy to accommodate this.
2. Activity Packs for the Table
A brilliant way to keep kids occupied during the meal or speeches is with personalised activity packs. Include:
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Puzzles, word searches, and dot-to-dots
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Bubbles (great for outside!)
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Mini snacks or treats
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A disposable camera for their own “wedding photography”
Pro tip: Add their name to each pack to make them feel extra special.
3. Outdoor Games for All Ages
If your venue has outdoor space, make the most of it with classic lawn games that adults and kids can enjoy:
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Giant Jenga
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Connect Four
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Bean bag toss
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Ring toss
These are great for the drinks reception when grown-ups are mingling and little ones need to burn off energy.
4. Hire a Children’s Entertainer
From balloon artists to magicians to puppeteers, there are loads of brilliant children’s entertainers based around Ireland who specialise in weddings. Just one hour of magic or storytelling can keep kids happy and give their parents a well-earned break.
Explore now: Childcare and Entertainment in Ireland
5. Kids’ Dance Floor Fun
Get the party started early with a child-friendly disco before the adults take over the dance floor. Some DJs offer special “mini discos” complete with glow sticks, pop songs, and dance games. It’s a great way to let kids feel involved, and tire them out before bedtime!
6. Movie Chill-Out Zone
Transform a quiet room at your venue into a mini cinema with bean bags, popcorn, and a couple of Disney or Pixar films playing. It gives little guests a chance to wind down and offers an escape if the evening gets a bit too loud or long.
Bonus Tip: Include Them in the Day
Don’t forget that kids love to feel important. Give them simple roles, like handing out confetti, walking down the aisle with a sign, or even ringing a little bell to announce the bride’s entrance. Their beaming faces will melt hearts and make your day even more memorable.
Featured image credit: Anna Yeremenko
