How to Keep Kids Entertained at a Wedding (That Isn't Just an iPad)

You've sent the invitations, and the RSVPs are rolling in... including a whole lot of "plus-ones" under the age of 10. Inviting kids to your wedding can make it a truly joyful, family-filled event, but it also comes with one big question: How do you keep them happy (and out of trouble)?

Let's be honest: for a kid, a wedding ceremony can feel long, the speeches can be boring, and they just don't appreciate your perfectly curated playlist. But with a little planning, you can create an experience that's a blast for all your guests, big and small.

Here are 7 great ways to keep kids entertained at your wedding, from simple and cheap to the ultimate "cool couple" move.

1. The Classic Activity Station

This is a must-have. Set up a kids-only table or a designated station with craft paper, crayons, and wedding-themed coloring sheets. You can also include simple puzzles, building blocks, or custom "I Spy" cards tailored to your wedding. ("I spy... two people kissing," "a sparkly dress," "a yummy dessert.")

2. A "Kids-Only" VIP Lounge

Make them feel special! Set up a small "VIP Lounge" away from the main action. A few teepees, some floor pillows, and quiet books can create a cozy retreat for when they get overstimulated and just need to chill out for a minute.

3. A Kid-Friendly "Happy Hour"

While the adults are having champagne and hors d'oeuvres, set up a special snack for the kids. A "milk and cookies" bar, a popcorn machine, or soft pretzels are all crowd-pleasers. Having their own special food makes them feel included and keeps the "I'm hungry" complaints at bay.

4. Hire a Professional

Want a truly stress-free night for the parents? Hire a professional wedding babysitter or a child entertainer. A sitter can wrangle the kids in a separate (but nearby) room with games and movies. Or, for a real "wow" moment, have a magician or balloon artist perform for 30 minutes during cocktail hour.

5. The Glow Stick Dance Party

This is the easiest win of the night. When the main lights go down and the dancing starts, hand out a huge batch of glow sticks, necklaces, and bracelets. Kids (and, let's be real, most adults) will go wild for them, and it makes for incredible dance floor photos.

6. Give Them a "Job"

Kids love to feel important. Give them an official "job" to do. They can be your "Program Manager" (handing out ceremony programs), a "Bubble Assistant" (blowing bubbles during your exit), or the "Official Greeter" (saying hi to guests).

7. The Ultimate Fun: A Bounce House

If your venue has the space, this is the gold-medal winner. A wedding bounce house (yes, they make elegant white ones!) is the ultimate way for kids to burn off all that energy in a safe, contained, and incredibly fun way. Parents will be able to relax and mingle, knowing their kids are having the time of their lives.

P.S. If you're looking for a family-friendly venue in Idaho that has plenty of space for kids (and even an optional indoor bounce house!), check out our flexible 12,000 sq. ft. event space at Vertical Venues.