How to Entertain at Big Community Events
Big community events are some of the most rewarding to organise. They bring people together, showcase local groups, and celebrate everything that makes an area special. From fairs and fetes in Eastbourne to outdoor markets in Lewes and family fun days in Tunbridge Wells, the key to a successful event is entertainment that keeps visitors of all ages involved.
Inflatables and activity zones are at the centre of many great community events. They attract attention, create energy, and give families a reason to stay longer. Here’s how to plan the right mix of entertainment for your next large-scale community celebration.
Understanding Your Audience
Before deciding on attractions, think about who will be attending. A good community event caters to a wide range of ages and interests.
Parents want safe, fun spaces for their children, while older visitors enjoy browsing stalls, watching live music, or joining in light-hearted competitions. Inflatables offer flexible entertainment for this kind of mixed audience.
Smaller children love gentle play in Bouncy Castle & Soft Play Packages or Toddler Play. Primary school children enjoy activity inflatables like Bouncy Castles and Bouncy Castle Slide Combos, while teenagers and adults are drawn to Inflatable Games and Sports Games.
A balanced line-up ensures the event feels inclusive and welcoming for families, groups, and individuals alike.
Creating Family Zones
One of the best ways to manage entertainment at a busy event is to divide attractions into clear zones. Many organisers across East Sussex set up a “family zone” where children can play safely while parents relax nearby.
This area might include a mix of smaller inflatables, ride-on toys, and soft play, with larger Large Event Inflatables placed slightly apart to allow space for queues and movement.
Having a clearly marked area for children also makes supervision easier, particularly when volunteers or staff are helping to monitor activities.
Adding Variety
Community events work best when there’s a variety of things to do. Alongside inflatables, consider including:
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Local food stalls or small traders.
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Arts and crafts stands for families.
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Live music, community choirs, or performances.
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Small fundraising games or raffles.
The inflatables act as the main attraction, drawing visitors to the event. Once they’re there, the other activities keep them engaged and encourage them to explore.
For example, a large Sports Games area featuring an assault course or gladiator-style inflatable can be placed near food and seating so families can enjoy both together.
Making It Seasonal
Tailoring entertainment to the time of year helps attract more visitors.
Planning ahead also makes it easier to coordinate with other local events and avoid busy weekends.
Combining Fun with Fundraising
Inflatables are great for attracting crowds, but they can also help raise money. Many schools, councils, and charities across East Sussex use them to support fundraising activities.
There are several ways to do this:
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Charge a small fee per turn on each inflatable.
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Offer all-day wristbands for unlimited play.
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Run friendly competitions using Inflatable Games.
These systems are easy to organise and provide steady income throughout the day.
Focusing on Safety
Safety is essential when running public events. Always make sure your hire company provides:
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Tested and insured inflatables.
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Safety mats and anchoring suitable for the surface.
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Clear instructions for supervision and maximum numbers.
For open parks and large grounds, ensuring power access is important. Cables should be secured safely and checked regularly throughout the event.
If you are working with volunteers or staff to oversee the inflatables, brief them on safety rules before the event begins. Keeping each inflatable under supervision ensures play stays fun and controlled.
Promoting Your Event
Even the best entertainment won’t make an impact without visitors. Once your inflatables and attractions are confirmed, start promoting the event early.
Use local social media pages, school newsletters, and community noticeboards. Highlight attractions that will catch attention such as Large Event Inflatables, Inflatable Games, and Disco Domes. Photos of bright, active setups are great for social posts and flyers.
Encouraging local businesses to sponsor inflatables or zones in return for signage or mentions also helps cover costs and builds community involvement.
Keeping It Organised
Community events can be busy, so having a clear plan helps everything run smoothly. A basic schedule with setup times, volunteer shifts, and safety checks keeps everyone on track.
Inflatables should be set up with enough time for testing before gates open. Plan breaks for volunteers and ensure there’s access to water and shade for staff working outside in warm weather.
At the end of the day, having a simple pack-down plan ensures equipment is collected safely and the site is left tidy.
Entertainment That Brings Communities Together
The best community events feel energetic, friendly, and inclusive. Inflatables add life and colour, encouraging laughter and teamwork. They help families spend time together and give children a safe, exciting outlet while parents socialise.
From seaside events in Eastbourne to village fairs in Lewes and town celebrations in Tunbridge Wells, inflatables have become a favourite part of community entertainment across East Sussex.
Plan Your Next Community Event
If you’re organising a local celebration, explore our Community & Council Events range, which includes Large Event Inflatables, Inflatable Games, Sports Games, and Bouncy Castle & Soft Play Packages.
To discuss your plans, visit our Contact Us page and let us know your date, location, and audience size. We’ll help you find the right mix of inflatables and family-friendly attractions for your next big community event in East Sussex.