UK children's birthday party average price soars over £500 as traditional staples ditched

Kids' birthday parties are often far more lavish than the jelly-and-ice-cream affairs of yesteryear, with a poll finding they cost an average of £524.

Traditional staples such as bowls of crisps, ham sandwiches, cheese and pineapple hedgehogs and party hats are now outdated. A survey of parents with children under 13 revealed some want treats such as private cinema screenings (7%), professional photographers (9%), wall climbing (22%) and games of laser tag (25%). One in 20 parents have ordered in a sushi platter.

But simpler fare such as pizzas (45%) and burgers (35%) are also popular. Almost nine in 10 parents polled said hosting birthday ­celebrations has become extremely competitive.

The average price of £524 includes decorations, venue hire, food, gift bags and entertainment, and 57% of parents feel under more pressure than ever to deliver for their youngster. Almost half (45%) said trying to organise a birthday bash was one of the most stressful things they have ever done.

The most difficult aspects are the high expectations kids have now (26%), different food requirements and allergies (38%) and having to invite their whole class (43%) all proving a nightmare.

Stephen Wilson, the chief executive of Oxygen Activeplay, which commissioned the research said: “It’s clear that parents are passionate about throwing their children fun and entertaining parties they will remember for ever.

“However, it seems that along with navigating changing tastes, there are numerous pressures that go alongside organising a fantastic party. Throwing the ultimate modern party doesn’t need to be stressful though.”

He suggested parents can cut the pressure by finding a venue that offers different activities to keep youngsters entertained.