How to Plan an Outdoor Kids Party in the South Florida Heat

South Florida is one of the best places in the country for outdoor parties. You can throw a backyard birthday almost any month of the year. But between the sunshine, humidity and afternoon showers, a little planning goes a long way, especially when animals are on the guest list.

Here are our best tips for planning a comfortable, happy outdoor party with a petting zoo, from the team that sets up barnyards all over South Florida.

1. Pick the right time of day

Morning and late-afternoon parties are the most comfortable for guests and animals. In the warmer months, a 9 or 10 a.m. start beats the midday heat, and it also tends to dodge the summer pop-up storms that roll in later in the afternoon.

• Hottest months (June to September): aim for a morning start
• Cooler months (November to April): almost any time of day works
• Evening parties: make sure there is enough light for photos

2. Make shade a priority

Shade is the single biggest thing you can do for a comfortable party. It keeps guests from overheating and keeps the animals relaxed and happy to be petted.

• Set up the petting zoo under trees or on the shady side of the house
• Add pop-up tents or umbrellas over seating and food areas
• No shade at all? We can bring a 10×10 pop-up tent for the barnyard for +$100

3. Choose a grassy, level spot

Animals are most comfortable on grass, and it is easier to clean up afterward. If your party is on a driveway, patio or parking lot, we bring a tarp and hay to protect the ground and keep the animals comfortable for +$150.

4. Keep everyone hydrated

• Set up a water and lemonade station in the shade
• Freeze water bottles the night before to double as ice packs
• Offer juicy snacks like watermelon, grapes and orange slices
• Remind kids to take water breaks between activities

We take care of water for the animals, so you can focus on your guests.

5. Have a rain plan

Afternoon showers are part of life in South Florida. They are often quick, but it helps to be ready:

• Check the forecast a few days before and again the morning of the party
• Have a covered patio, garage or tent as a backup spot for guests
• Keep towels handy for wet chairs and tables
• If storms are in the forecast, contact us and we will talk through your options

6. Plan for bugs and sunscreen

Put out kid-friendly sunscreen and bug spray near the entrance so guests can apply it when they arrive. Ask guests to apply it before they go in to pet the animals, and use the hand sanitizer station that comes with every petting zoo after.

7. Set up the party flow

• Arrival: sunscreen, bug spray and a cold drink
• Animals first: let kids visit the petting zoo while they are full of energy
• Food and cake: move to the shade for lunch and dessert
• Presents and favors: wrap up indoors or under cover

Your outdoor party checklist

• Morning or late-afternoon start time
• Shade for guests and the barnyard
• A grassy, level spot (or the hay and tarp add-on)
• Water station and cold snacks
• Sunscreen, bug spray and towels
• A backup covered area for rain

Plan your outdoor animal party

Our mobile petting zoo includes 15 to 20 friendly farm animals, a fenced barnyard, feed, brushes and a hand sanitizer station, and we set it all up for you. See prices and open dates on the petting zoo booking page, or read our petting zoo price guide first.