Children’s parties seem to have become increasingly extravagant in recent years but bigger isn’t always better. While ice skating, trampolining, tenpin bowling and even indoor rock climbing can all be fun for kids, they’re also expensive and need we mention the stress of possible accidents? So when it comes to classic kids parties, we think nothing really beats a great park party. Here are some of our favourite options in Sydney.

Blaxland Riverside Park, Sydney Olympic Park, Homebush

If your idea of a great kids’ party is lots of grass, picturesque surrounds, good facilities and the best possible playground you can imagine, you’ll hit the jackpot with this Sydney favourite. Located in Sydney Olympic Park and open daily from sunrise to sunset, the riverside setting has tables and free BBQs, ample parking and an amazing playground that will keep kids of all ages entertained for hours. If you want to add something special you can book train rides on the Heritage Train in the adjacent Newington Armory.

PIrrama Park, Pyrmont

Formerly a base for Sydney’s water police, this 1.8 hectare foreshore park in Pyrmont features an award-winning architectural design, wide lawns and spectacular harbour views. So there’s plenty to keep kids, and adults, happy. The partially-shaded playground is suitable for all ages with a variety of adventurous equipment; and the water spouts make it a particularly good option for summer soirees.

Bicentennial Park, Glebe

The Glebe foreshore area has four parks that together offer lots of green space, play equipment and picnic and BBQ areas. Jubilee Park has a popular playground, updated just a year or so ago (the circular cubby house with slide is always a hit). And Bicentennial Park is a preferred party option with a spacious yet enclosed playground featuring swings and slides, sandy play areas, lots of raised climbing platforms reminiscent of a pirate ship and even an old boat to clamber aboard. There’s also a choice of covered tables adjacent to the playground and lots of grass for party games.

Parsley Bay Reserve, Vaucluse

If you’re considering a beach party, Parsley Bay Reserve in Vaucluse is a good option. It’s a popular party spot with picnic facilities, a kiosk for cool drinks, lots of green grass and an enclosed swimming area.  The playground is shaded by trees and has swings, slides, ropes and climbing frames so it’s always a hit with young adventurers.

Sydney Park, St Peters

Well-loved by locals, this expansive park has attracted party people of all ages for many years. There are lots of wide green spaces for games, fantastic playground equipment and sand pits plus tables, a kiosk and BBQs. If your guests bring their scooters, there’s even a purpose-built bike track with kid-size stop signs and road directions.

Parties made easy

Of course choosing the venue is just step one of the party organisation. To make it all a lot easier, mobile catering in Sydney can be a good idea, and lots more affordable than you might have thought. A hot dog stand with an assortment of relishes is guaranteed to give you more time to enjoy the day, and keep both the kids and adults well-fed.