I've done "home" parties for my DD, who will turn 5 in a few weeks. Currently planning the dinosaur (!) theme right now - there will be 10 kids. Some parents that we know well will drop off; parents of newer preschool friends will stay. The key for a home party is to have a plan with scheduled activities, and prepare well ahead of time. Also to be prepared when things go faster or slower than planned.
There are several websites with fantastic party ideas. One is birthdaypartyideas, which has parents submit descriptions of the parties they threw for their kids. Can also just google and you'll find lots of suggestions. I did a Lion King safari last year for DD's 4th, and some of the parents said it was the most creative party they'd been to (and almost all ideas were from the site I mentioned). Was definitely more involved to have at home, and need to plan so you can order/make what you need. But was also cheaper, and DD had a blast!
Good luck and have fun!
- Maura
