Last-Minute Light Party Ideas 

Calling all parents and kids’ workers who are scrabbling for ideas!

Halloween is just around the corner, and for many of us in church life, that means one thing - it’s Light Party season!

Maybe you’ve been planning for weeks… or maybe you’ve just looked at the calendar and realised it’s the 31st next Thursday. Don’t panic! Whether you’re hosting at home, in a church hall, or with a few friends from the neighbourhood, there’s still time to pull something together that’s fun, meaningful and full of light.

Here are a few quick ideas to help you get started (or rescue your planning if you’re starting from scratch!):

1. Keep the Welcome Warm

Even a last-minute event can feel special when people are greeted with warmth and kindness. Pop a few fairy lights around, put the kettle on, and get some easy snacks - hot chocolate, biscuits, crisps or sweets.

Ask a couple of people to focus just on chatting with parents while the children play. A friendly smile and a bit of conversation can turn a simple event into something that really connects with families.

2. Easy, Joyful Activities

You don’t need loads of time or resources to make it fun. Here are a few tried-and-tested ideas that work brilliantly on a budget:

• Glow games: musical statues or hide and seek in the dark with glow sticks.

• Light crafts: simple lanterns made from jam jars and tissue paper, or “shine your light” badges.

• Photo corner: hang up fairy lights, grab some props, and let families take fun photos together.

• Treasure hunt: hide little battery-powered candles or glow eggs around the room for kids to find.

Keep it simple, bright, and full of laughter - the kind of atmosphere that feels like a real celebration of life and joy.

3. Don’t Forget the “Why”

Amid the fun, find a moment to share what it’s all about. A quick story, a short talk or even a video clip can remind everyone that we’re celebrating Jesus, the Light of the World.

You could ask:

“When things feel dark or a bit scary, what makes you feel safe?”

Then share that we believe God’s love is a light that never goes out. Simple, hopeful, and easy for kids to understand.

4. Leave Them with Light

Send families home with something small - a glow stick and a verse, a little craft, or a note that says, “You are loved, and Jesus is the Light of the World.” It doesn’t have to be fancy - just something to carry the message home.

Hosting a Light Party doesn’t have to be complicated or Pinterest-perfect. It’s about creating a safe, joyful space for families to gather and celebrate something good.

So if you’re scrambling for ideas - you’ve got this! A few lights, a bit of laughter, and a simple reminder of God’s love can go a long way.

Here’s to shining bright this 31st - even if it’s all a bit last minute! 🌟