Is It Rude Not to Have Goody Bags at Your Child’s Party?

Let’s talk about the tiny bags that cause surprisingly big opinions.

Planning your child’s party can feel like ticking off an endless to-do list: food, decorations, entertainment, cake… and then comes that age-old question: "Do I really need to do goody bags?” We've seen thousands of kids' parties - some with goody bags, some without, and plenty where parents got creative with alternatives. So, is skipping the kid's party bag considered rude? Or is it time we all relaxed a little?

Let’s break it down.

What’s the Point of a Goody Bag, Anyway?

Traditionally, goody bags and other kids' party extras are a way of thanking guests for coming. A little parting gift for the kids - some sweets, a toy or two, maybe a balloon or sticker - to take home after the fun. If you're wondering what to put in your kid's party bags, have a read of our blog post here. But let’s be honest:

• Most of them end up under car seats or forgotten in coat pockets

• You’ve probably bought the same mini bubbles five years in a row

• And they’re not exactly cheap once you’ve got 20+ kids to cater for!

So it’s no wonder parents are starting to ask: Is it really necessary?

Pros of Giving Goody Bags

• It’s a nice gesture – It can feel like a polite way to say “thanks for coming.”

• Kids expect it – Let’s be real… some children will ask where it is if it’s not handed out!

• It ends the party cleanly – Giving out bags as guests leave is a good way to wind things down.

• It’s part of the party culture – Like cake and party hats, it’s a tradition many parents are used to.

Cons of Goody Bags

• They’re expensive – Even just £2 per child adds up quickly with a full guest list.

• They can feel wasteful – Cheap plastic toys, half-eaten sweets, and things that break on the way home? Not ideal.

• It adds pressure – Social media and Pinterest parties can make simple bags feel like a competition.

• They’re not essential to fun – Most kids leave talking about the games, the magic, or the cake - not the pencil sharpener in their goody bag.

So… Is It Rude Not to Do Party Favour Bags?

Here’s the honest answer: No, it’s not rude. And that's speaking from experience.

You’re not breaking any official party law. Most parents completely understand the time, effort, and cost that goes into hosting a party. But, it can raise eyebrows - especially if goody bags are expected and nothing is offered in their place.

In other words, it’s not rude, but it can feel a little abrupt if the party ends with nothing at all.

Smart Alternatives to Traditional Goody Bags

If you want to skip the plastic tat, but still show a little appreciation, here are a few easy swaps:

• One meaningful gift per child – A book, colouring set, or small puzzle

• Send them home with cake – Pop it in a napkin or box and hand it out at the door

• Craft or activity take-home – If the kids make something at the party, that becomes the gift!

• Edible treats – Decorated biscuits or cupcakes are a crowd-pleaser

• Photo moment – Set up a party photo booth and send parents the snaps later

And If You Want to Make an Impact Without the Extras…

Book an incredible party experience.

At Non Stop Kids Entertainment, we’ve had countless parents tell us that after one of our parties, the kids didn’t even ask about a party bag - they were too busy raving about the magician, the games and how much fun they had! Because at the end of the day, children remember the laughter, the magic and the atmosphere - not what was inside a paper bag.

If you want your child’s party to be unforgettable (with or without goody bags), book Non Stop Kids Entertainment to handle the fun. We bring energy, entertainment and excitement that keeps kids talking long after the balloons have deflated.