Arcade games work best as a relaxed side attraction that guests can drop into throughout the event. They keep children happy at weddings, get colleagues talking at work parties and bring nostalgia to milestone birthdays. Here are the ideas that work best in practice.
Key takeaways
- Use arcade games to keep children entertained at weddings.
- Add leaderboards and prizes for corporate team events.
- Pair games with a photo booth or bar to create a social hub.
How can arcade games help at an Asian wedding?
Asian weddings often have lots of children, and long programmes can test their patience. A games corner with a claw machine, air hockey and a basketball game keeps them busy during speeches and photos.
It also gives teenage cousins somewhere to hang out, which helps parents enjoy the evening. Keep the zone away from the stage and the couple's entrance route.
For a sangeet or mehndi party, a dance machine fits the mood perfectly. Guests who are warming up for the choreographed performances often end up having a go, and it makes for great video clips.
- Kids' corner during speeches and photos
- Teen zone with dance and racing games
- Retro cabinets for uncles who remember the originals
- A claw machine filled with wedding favours
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What arcade ideas work for corporate events?
For team events, run a tournament with a leaderboard and prizes. Racing simulators and basketball machines work well for friendly competition between departments.
At product launches and exhibitions, branded games can draw people to your stand. A retro cabinet with custom artwork is a strong talking point.
For Christmas parties, a games zone gives guests who are not big dancers something to enjoy. It keeps the whole room involved rather than just the dance floor.
- Racing tournament with a live leaderboard
- Branded retro cabinet at an exhibition stand
- Christmas party games zone next to the bar
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What about birthday parties?
For milestone birthdays, retro arcade games bring back memories. A 40th with classic cabinets and a pinball table gives guests plenty to talk about.
For children's parties, keep it simple with games that are easy to understand and quick to play. Claw machines and basketball are always popular.
For an Eid or Diwali family gathering, a few machines in a hall or large marquee give the children a focus while the adults eat and catch up. It is a simple way to make a family event feel special.
Which services pair well with arcade games?
A photo booth next to the games zone gives guests another thing to enjoy in one area. A mobile bar or ice cream cart nearby makes it the place to be.
For corporate events, add a DJ or live band to keep the energy up. The games give people a break from the dance floor without leaving the party.
How do you keep the games zone running well?
Place machines along walls near sockets, with enough space between them for players and queues. Keep walkways clear.
For large events, an attendant helps keep things moving and resets machines if needed. Clear signs showing the games are free to play help too.
Check machines are stable and cables are taped down, especially where children are running around. A quick walk through with the supplier after setup is worth the few minutes it takes.
Tip from our team: Ask your host or DJ to announce the games zone once, early in the evening. Many guests will not notice it otherwise.
How do you plan it with one team?
Arcade games work best when space, power and timings are planned alongside the rest of the event. Booking through one point of contact makes this easy.
Party Central covers the whole UK, and our partners are vetted and insured. Tell us your plans and we will suggest the right mix.
Frequently asked questions
Are arcade games good for keeping kids busy at weddings?
Yes, they are one of the best ways to entertain children at long weddings. A claw machine, air hockey and basketball keep them happy. Keep the zone away from the stage.
Can arcade machines be branded for a corporate event?
Some machines can carry custom artwork or branding. It works well at launches and exhibitions. Allow time for the branding to be prepared.
What are the most popular arcade games for events?
Air hockey, basketball, racing simulators, claw machines and retro cabinets like Pac-Man are always popular. A mix suits most crowds. We can suggest a package for your guests.
Can we fill a claw machine with our own prizes?
Many suppliers allow this, which makes it a fun way to hand out favours. Check prize sizes fit the machine. Let us know when you enquire.
Bring the arcade to your event
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Written by the Party Central events team. Prices mentioned are starting points only. Exact pricing depends on availability, your exact requirements, time on site and location. Party Central is a trading name of Booking Central Ltd.
