Planning a Backyard Birthday
The questions we get asked on the phone every week, answered up front. Most of it comes down to matching the unit to the ages and being honest about how much yard you have.
Call for Advice(413) 230-0596How many kids per unit?
A standard castle takes eight at a time, but that's eight jumping — not eight kids at the party. For a group of 15 to 20, a single castle works fine because they rotate on and off naturally. Past about 25 you want a combo, or a second unit, or the line gets long enough that kids wander off.
Which unit for which age?
Under 5, use a toddler unit — the walls are low and the slide is gentle, and a full-size castle genuinely frightens some three-year-olds. Ages 3 to 12 is castle and combo territory. Ten and up get bored of an open bounce floor quickly; give them an obstacle course with something to race.
Mixed ages at the same party?
Common, and the usual mistake is booking for the oldest kid. A 7-in-1 combo handles a mixed group better than anything else we rent — the little ones use the bounce floor and the slide, the older ones use the climb wall. If there are toddlers and ten-year-olds, two smaller units beat one big one.
How long should I book it?
Four hours covers a normal birthday party with time either side. Kids will use it hard for the first hour, drift off, then come back. A full day is worth it for a graduation or a block party where guests arrive across the afternoon. Ask about the extra day — a second day is half price.
How do I time the day?
We set up at least an hour before guests arrive, and often deliver the day before for a Saturday party. Plan food for roughly the midpoint — kids will not come off a bounce house voluntarily, so a break gets them eating. Cake last, and keep it away from the unit.
What do I need in the yard?
A flat patch with about five feet clear on every side, a standard outlet within 100 feet, and a path at least three feet wide from the truck to the spot — check your gate. Grass is best. Pavement works but needs sandbags instead of stakes, so tell us when you book.
Still not sure? Call (413) 230-0596 and describe the party — we do this every weekend and we'd rather get it right than sell you the biggest unit.