80 Unique Ways to Entertain Your Wedding Guests
From circus performers to tribute bands, escape room experiences to petting zoos, these are some of the most epic wedding entertainment ideas ever!
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Finding the best ways to entertain your wedding guests can be tricky, not least because there are so many wedding entertainment suppliers out there to choose between. But if you’ve found yourself endlessly scrolling or tapping ‘wedding entertainment near me’ into your search engine, then you’ve come to the right place.
According to our most recent National Wedding Survey, couples are focusing on guest experience more than ever, and choosing the right kind of entertainment is a crucial part of that.
Maybe you’re looking for ways to entertain your wedding guests during the photos, the meal or to set the tone for the evening reception – either way, we have you covered with our edit of brilliant wedding entertainment ideas below.
If you want your wedding to be fun, entertainment is absolutely the best way to make that happen. Get ready to be spoiled for choice as we share the best wedding guest activities for you to browse through!
Ways to Entertain Your Wedding Guests: 80 of the Best Wedding Entertainment Ideas
From live painters to roaming musicians, wedding fireworks to outdoor games, these are some of the most fun wedding guest activities and entertainment ideas in the UK. We’ve even got some alternative wedding food ideas to make your day especially memorable. Your guests won’t believe their eyes when they realise what you have in store…
- Creative Wedding Entertainment Ideas
- Personalised Wedding Entertainment Ideas
- Music Wedding Entertainment Ideas
- Food & Drink Wedding Entertainment Ideas
- Entertain Your Wedding Guests FAQ
Creative Wedding Entertainment Ideas
From cute and quirky wedding games to downright wild and wacky activities, these are some of our favourite creative ways to entertain your wedding guests
1. Photo Booth
Setting up a photo booth at your reception is such a fun wedding idea that guests won’t be able to get enough of. The snaps also provide guests with a great memento to take home with them.
Sabre Shots allows guests to take photos and boomerangs which can either be printed instantly, air-dropped or emailed to them – and it also offers all kinds of backdrops and styles. Imagine a trad photo booth but seriously jazzed up.
- Pricing: From £400
2. Petting Farm
Are you a pair of animal lovers? A petting farm filled with furry friends lends itself well to weddings with lots of outdoor space. Hampshire-based Grainmarket Alpacas will bring its tribe of friendly alpacas to your venue, where guests can get up close and personal. You’ll undoubtedly get some great photos – and the animals will be a hit with younger guests if you’re having children at your wedding.
- Pricing: From £360
3. Fire Performers
Can you imagine your guests’ excitement as the sun begins to set and a fire performer rocks up to work their magic?
Emily of Ember Fire Performance is the perfect way to bring some extra sparkle to your celebration, whether that’s performing in the background as guests are welcomed, centre-stage during the party or in those little moments in between.
- Pricing: From £200
4. Circus Entertainers
Speaking of performers, you could go one step further and have a whole troop of aerial performances at your wedding!
Lancashire-based TurnAround Aerial Circus Entertainment offers the most breathtaking aerial displays on silks and hoops – imagine a beautiful outdoor performance to your favourite love song or a dynamic dinner show. Cirque du Soleil eat your heart out.
- Pricing: From £350
5. Glitter Bar
Hosting a festival-themed wedding or just looking for a fun way to get the party started? A glitter bar is a seriously cool idea – we love seeing guests end the night with beards full of sparkles, eyebrows in multi-colour splendour and cool painted faces partying underneath the disco lights!
Bring the shimmer by hiring the likes of Luminosity Glitter, a team of cosmetic artists who only use plant-based, biodegradable glitter to add a fun and memorable twist to your day.
- Pricing: From £400
6. Retro Arcade Games
If you're searching for fun wedding games with an old-school twist, Gaming4Weddings offers nostalgia in spades.
The company provides a host of retro game machines for wedding activities – the most welcome and social of which being their dance machine. It makes a seriously fun alternative to the first dance that leaves newlyweds nerve-free and guests enthralled. Where do we sign up!?
- Pricing: From £400
7. Casino
If a Las Vegas hen do was too much for the budget, why not incorporate the buzzy theme into your wedding entertainment? Bring the glitz and the glamour of Vegas to your wedding day by putting casino tables out at your wedding reception.
Lots of companies like GB Fun Casinos hire out the tables and provide an expert croupier to run the games so you can sit back and have fun. Guests win chips and you could have a prize for the person who gets the most.
- Pricing: From £295
- Deals: Couples that book with Hitched can enjoy a 5% discount on their booking! Check out this vendor's listing for even more offers, too.
8. Mini Golf
If you’re hosting a summer wedding, set up a miniature golf course for guests of all ages to enjoy – it's one of our favourite outdoor wedding game ideas.
Companies such as Portable Putts can provide a colourful option that will fit seamlessly into any open event space, providing endless entertainment in between wedding stages. As the married couple, why not go head-to-head or play the winners of your tournament?
- Pricing: From £500
9. Fireworks
What better way to end your celebrations than with a show-stopping firework display? It goes without saying that nobody should be lighting their own fireworks after a day of… merriment, shall we say! So be sure to bring in the professionals.
Fantazia Fireworks, based in Birmingham, has more than 40 years’ experience lighting up the skies for newlyweds’ big days – the perfect choice if you’re looking for wedding fireworks vendors who will create those magical moments for you.
- Pricing: From £695
- Deals: Hitched users get an exclusive 5% off their booking – plus free sparklers for every wedding display booked!
10. Face Painting
Face painting isn’t just for younger guests – we bet a fair few adults will want in on the action too! From butterflies and rainbows for kids to dainty floral designs for the grown-ups, there will be something for every guest with this unique wedding entertainment option.
Moonchild Face Painting is our go-to – the company offers both face painting and henna, too.
- Pricing: From £80
11. Colouring Stations for Kids
Colouring is a fun wedding idea that will keep kids entertained during key moments like the speeches and in between courses. Simply cover a table with kraft paper and scatter with wedding-themed colouring books or let them scribble away on the paper.
If you’d rather keep things contained to the tables, pop one of these cute, personalised colouring books, available at Etsy, at each child’s place setting.
- Pricing: From £4.20 each
12. Advice Cards
Another great (and affordable) entertainment option for your tables that guests can make use of between courses are advice cards, like these from Ginger Ray, which your loved ones can fill with their own words of wisdom. It’s such a simple but fun activity, plus you’ll get lots of enjoyment reading them after the big day.
- Pricing: £2.99 (pack of 10)
13. Virtual Reality Games
Yes, really! There are companies like Altered Reality Zone which can set up VR arcade games at your reception, allowing guests to experience everything from flying through space and shooting lasers to solving puzzles and more.
- Pricing: From £400
14. Garden Games
If you’re getting married in a beautiful garden wedding venue that lends itself well to an outdoor drinks reception, garden games are a must. They’re also super affordable and offer something for guests of all ages.
The Whimsical Workshop based in Epsom, Surrey, offers some excellent vintage-style lawn games that have all been handmade – think coconut shy, hoopla, ball-in-the-bucket and more.
- Pricing: From £250
15. Table Trivia
Table games, like these from Etsy, are the perfect icebreaker – and an easy way to forgo small talk and any awkwardness at the wedding breakfast. Plus, they’ll be a lot of fun for those guests who aren’t busting moves on the dancefloor!
- Pricing: £12.50 (per set)
16. Pass the Parcel
Play pass the parcel around your wedding tables and fill with icebreaker jokes and small gifts hidden between each layer. This type of fun wedding activity will likely get everyone in the mood for the best man speech to come, too!
Shop kits like this one from Not on the High Street which work just as well for wedding entertainment as it does a hen do. We love the idea of a cheeky dare between each layer… just don’t make them too risqué!
- Pricing: From £8.99
17. Axe Throwing
Grey Goose Axe Throwing is a mobile axe-throwing business ready to delight your guests with the most thrilling activity you could probably have at your wedding. Hire the professional team to guide you through the fun in the company's open-air trailer for anywhere between two to eight hours. It even includes lighting and music to enhance the vibe!
- Pricing: From £695
18. Wedding Swing
If, like us, you think garden swings are super fun, how about hiring one for your big day as a source of wedding entertainment?
The Wedding Swing Company in Kent allows couples to choose a range of swing packages, with the option to decorate with flowers, drapes and lights to suit the style and theme of your day, and the price includes set-up and take-down. It makes the perfect backdrop for photos – your guests will all be queuing for a turn!
- Pricing: From £500
19. Magician
There are few things more entertaining, especially at a wedding, then magic. The most talented of magicians will really get your guests’ brains going – they’ll be determined to figure out the secrets behind the tricks!
Gloucestershire-based magician Richard Parsons has garnered tons of five-star reviews for good reason, and has performed magic for newlyweds and their guests more than 16 years – so he knows his stuff!
- Pricing: From £475
20. Owl Ring Bearer
Yes, you read that right! You can genuinely have an owl swoop down the aisle to deliver the rings, thanks to the Barn Owl Ring Bearer.
The team will arrive super discreetly to keep the whole thing a surprise for your guests – then will stay an hour after the ceremony to keep loved ones entertained, and to allow them to take pics!
- Pricing: From £425
21. Fairground Fun
Love the idea of tying the knot in a fairground? It might seem a bit extra, but actually fairground rides are a lot of fun for wedding guests and work brilliantly for vintage-themed weddings.
Marleybrook House in Kent has its own vintage fairground on site – so much fun, your guests will never want to leave. We’ve got plenty more venues with funfairs listed here, too.
- Pricing: From £8,400
- Deals: Until 2027, Hitched users can bag some great deals, including 25% off the fairground hire and complimentary candyfloss!
22. Bus Tour
Are you getting married in the city with lots of guests coming from out of town? You could organise an open-top bus tour – complete with bubbles and a guide to talk you through the sites. It’s a really unique wedding entertainment idea and a cool way to capture some fun photographs!
Golden Tours organises private tours throughout London and will whizz past the likes of St Paul’s Cathedral, the London Eye, Tower Bridge and the Houses of Parliament. Do it between the ceremony and reception, or as part of a wedding weekender.
- Pricing: From £650
23. Confetti Cannons
If you don’t fancy finishing your night with fireworks, how about confetti cannons instead? Whether it’s for the first dance or the last, confetti cannons lend themselves to the most amazing photographs.
Check out Hitched With Stevens for some great affordable options.
- Pricing: From £26
24. Beer (or Prosecco!) Pong
Possibly one of our favourite fun wedding games, depending on your tipple of choice, beer pong is a drinking game which could be set up anywhere in your venue that has plenty of space – just make sure your photographer is on hand to capture the shots!
DIY this wedding entertainment by investing in a beer pong set like this Team Groom/Team Bride option from Etsy.
- Pricing: From £59
25. Hitch a Ride
Any cool bride or groom arrival is guaranteed to garner a series of oohs and ahhs from your guests, but how about having something they can interact with too?
Whether it’s a vintage camper van they can have some photos with, a series of black cabs to transport them to the reception venue, a tandem bike or free tractor rides like those available at Mapperley Farm in Derbyshire, they’ll love having the opportunity to capture some fun pics.
- Pricing: From £1,800
26. Escape Room Experience
Did you know you can hire an escape room for your wedding? Yes, really!
If you’re the kind of couple who love puzzles and team tasks, this is one of the most fun and unique ideas for wedding entertainment. The Gamelab has a mobile escape room inside a converted horse box that can be brought to your wedding venue. It offers a 15-minute wedding-themed escape room experience for up to four adults at a time.
- Pricing: From £900
27. Tug of War
Love the idea of keeping it really old-school? Nothing will bring out your guests’ competitive sides more than a good-old tug of war. All you need is an extra-large rope to go head to head, which could cost next to nothing. Or, how about combining it with some other vintage-inspired garden games like those from Kent-based company Finickity Fair Vintage Garden Games?
- Pricing: From £395
28. Archery
As part of its epic wedding weekenders (which are super popular here) Thirlestane Castle on the Scottish Borders allows guests guided access to its estate activities, which include archery, clay pigeon shooting, Highland games and more.
For couples planning a long weekend, an itinerary of icebreaker activities before and after the big day is a must.
- Pricing: From £12,950
29. Bouncy Castle
Don’t listen to them – you’re never too old to enjoy a bouncy castle! We’d hazard a guess that this will be even more popular with the adults once the kids have gone to bed, too…
Call on the inflatable experts like Gedling Bouncy Castle Hire, who will deliver, set up and take down everything at your venue.
- Pricing: From £300
30. Polaroid Cameras
Placing polaroid or disposable cameras on the tables for your guests to use is the perfect way to capture those funny and emotional moments your photographer might miss, particularly in the evening.
You could even leave them a list of things to snap on each table, whether it’s a group selfie, a member of the wedding party with a tie around their head or the groom dancing. Polaroid snaps that are printed instantly can be stuck into your wedding guest book, too.
For an affordable option, disposables are best. Check out Boots for some great budget-friendly options.
- Pricing: From £15.99
31. Flares
For the most atmospheric and colourful wedding photos, flares – or smoke bombs – are a lot of fun, just always be sure to check your venue permits them before you start spending.
They will be a real spectacle for your guests to watch from a distance as your photographer captures the incredible photos. Pick up non-toxic versions with biodegradable bodies from the likes of Enola Gaye, which comes highly recommended by pro photographers.
- Pricing: From £8.98
Personalised Wedding Entertainment Ideas
Easy and affordable ways to keep your entertainment and wedding guest activities meaningful and bespoke to your loved ones’ experience
32. Wheel of Fun
When it comes to fun drinks reception entertainment, this activity has 'fun' baked into it. Putting a wheel of fun somewhere in your wedding reception will keep your guests entertained for hours.
If you're already in DIY mode, this could be a cool little extra to incorporate. However, if the project feels a little too hefty, this chic rustic wedding spin the wheel will blend into any venue. Better yet, you're free to include custom activities that match your wedding theme.
- Pricing: £129.56
33. Couples’ Quiz
This has got to be one of our favourite wedding entertainment ideas! See how well you and your new spouse know each other by going head to head in front of all your guests.
Encourage your loved ones to ask you questions while you hold up these personalised Mr & Mrs Spoons to indicate the most likely answer. We’ve even prepared some fun Mr & Mrs questions for you…
- Pricing: £14.95
34. Custom Temporary Tattoos
Temporary tattoos are such good fun as entertainment for weddings, and kids and adults alike will enjoy them. You could even customise them with your names or faces, like these fun designs from Mi Ink Tattoos, which provides playful and personalised temporary tattoos for parties.
They also double as great unusual wedding favours!
- Pricing: From £100
35. Live Painter
Capture the magic of the day by having an artist on hand to do a live painting as it unfolds. Your guests will love seeing the painting come together – plus you’ll have the most stunning piece of artwork for your home after the celebrations.
Or, for something even better, how about a piece of art your guests can contribute to? Make Your Mark Events is an award-winning service that offers all this and more.
- Pricing: From £700
36. Choreographed Dance
Delight your guests and give them the surprise of their lives by learning a full-on dance routine for your first dance.
This is a really fun wedding idea that they won’t see coming and will be particularly effective if you’re the couple known for their two left feet. The easiest way to pull it off? Book in for a few lessons with the pros. We highly recommend the award-winning Next Step Wedding Co based in London.
- Pricing: From £60
- Deals: Hitched users get an exclusive 5% discount!
37. Personalised Crackers
Crackers make great Christmas wedding activities – but how about making them even more special with personalised ones for each guest? Fill with bespoke gifts or a little handwritten note; it’ll really bring a smile to your loved ones' faces, and they double up as the perfect festive wedding favours.
- Pricing: From £36.65 (for six)
38. Bring Your Pet
From your dog to your horse, whether you bring them for cuddles, rides, or to have as a ring bearer, everyone is sure to entertained by your furry friend.
To make things even easier, call in the pros like the South Wales-based Alfie’s Retreat who will have a qualified handler chaperone your four-legged VIP throughout the day to keep them calm, safe and tended to, so you don’t have to. The company can even extend its tailored packages to include the night before the wedding or the days after, so you can relax knowing your fur baby is in safe hands.
- Pricing: From £149
- Deals: Hitched users get an exclusive 10% off their booking!
39. The Shoe Game
Another fun and fantastic way to find out just how well you know each other, this fun wedding game is endless entertainment for guests! You could play it during the lull after the wedding breakfast – it makes a hilarious warm-up to the evening festivities. And why not bring along a prize for the winning spouse! We’ve got a helpful guide to the wedding shoe game for all the steps, too.
- Pricing: Free
40. Alternative Guest Book
Guest books have long provided wedding guests with something to do in the quiet moments between your wedding breakfast and the party, so how about inspiring them to be more creative with their messages by incorporating an alternative guest book idea? This rustic jigsaw idea by Wild Wood Wedding at Etsy is one such option.
- Pricing: From £23
41. Photo Scavenger Hunt
How about having a photo scavenger hunt at your wedding for your guests to try and complete throughout the day? From a snap of the bride’s dress to a group selfie, it’s sure to bring out the competitive side in everyone.
If something quite unique features at your wedding venue – such as a historic relic of some kind – be sure to include it on your list. Include cards like these from Blissful Invite Studio on Etsy on each table and encourage your loved ones to upload their images with your own wedding hashtag or QR code, too.
- Pricing: £4.60
42. Illustrator
Give your guests a wonderful keepsake of your wedding by hiring a caricaturist or illustrator to draw or paint them a small portrait to take away.
It’s such a fun wedding entertainment idea – you’ll have all your guests, young and old, queuing for their picture. We love London-based Anna Obert Illustration for a cool and modern vibe.
- Pricing: From £800
43. Personalised Wedding Magazine
A bespoke wedding magazine or newspaper is a great time-filler and keepsake for your guests to enjoy either before the ceremony or during the drinks reception.
Dapper & Bride will create your own personalised read for the big day – but it can also create one after detailing the event’s highlights. A fab memento that looks so cool.
- Pricing: From £650
Music Wedding Entertainment Ideas
Musical ceremony and reception entertainment that will bring the fun to your big day
44. Singing Waiters
Singing waiters have long been a popular choice for surprise wedding entertainment – and they don’t appear to be going anywhere anytime soon.
Talented performers like those from Singing Surprise will dress up and act as staff at your wedding before bursting into song during the wedding breakfast. They’re guaranteed to have everyone up on their feet and singing along.
- Pricing: From £399
45. DJ
An obvious one, perhaps, but you’ve got to get people on the dancefloor – and a killer wedding DJ is the best way to do that.
Forget those should-be-retired DJs though – for a night your guests won’t forget, Kelvin from BPM Events offers a simple and stylish set-up and all the vibes to ensure an energetic and skilfully mixed set worthy of any London club or festival.
- Pricing: From £1,250
46. Live Band
Another classic and popular option but remember the choice of wedding bands out there is vast, so it’s about finding the right one to work with your big-day style.
One of our favourites is Blue Lion Band, an award-winning group who’ve played and toured with some of the most famous names in music, including George Michael, Ellie Goulding and Mark Knopfler.
- Pricing: From £1,590
47. String Quartet
A string trio or quartet is the kind of wedding entertainment that brings a touch of elegance to your day – and Liquid Strings could be the perfect choice. A great entertainment option for the reception drinks or to serenade your guests as they're waiting for the ceremony to start.
- Pricing: From £275
48. Acoustic Guitarist
If you’re keeping your day quite intimate, perhaps a big band or string quartet isn’t quite the vibe, but acoustic musicians lend themselves well to small and relaxed celebrations.
They’re also more likely to take requests in order to personalise your party and would work for the drinks reception as well as being perfect for the ceremony and dinner itself.
24 Live Acoustic works as either a soloist or duo and have hundreds of weddings under their belt. Choose anything from slow, romantic performances to lively evening sets.
- Pricing: From £600
49. Roaming Musicians
Roaming musicians and walkabout bands add a completely different dimension to your wedding entertainment and are some of the best musical fun wedding ideas you can incorporate into your day.
These bands will get your feet tapping as they bring the entertainment up close and personal. From barbershop quartets to roaming saxophonists, there are so many types you could choose from – check out Boujee Music for some brilliant options for weddings of all styles.
- Pricing: From £2,000
50. Harpist
Fairytale celebrations require the elegant sounds of a harpist – it’s a great entertainment option for the reception drinks.
In our opinion, there is no better person for the job than Glasgow-based harpist Sophie Rocks whose diverse repertoire includes classical music, pop, rock and even heavy metal!
- Pricing: From £375
51. Silent Disco
If your circle of friends loves to party, they’ll most definitely enjoy a silent disco as your wedding entertainment. The atmosphere at a silent disco is unmatched – it’s simply one of the best wedding guest activities to utilise if your venue has a noise curfew, too!
The team at Silent Noize Events has been providing silent discos for weddings throughout the Midlands and beyond since 2010, so they’re pros at what they do. The headphones come with three channels so you and your pals can party to several different genres at once, with something to keep everyone happy.
- Pricing: From £120
52. Karaoke
Are you and your partner self-confessed karaoke kings and/or queens? Then this is the perfect entertainment to bring to your wedding – and we bet guests will love it, too.
Essex-based business The Karaoke Company will bring the party – along with hosts, staging, lighting and everything you need to make sure you and your loved ones become the entertainment (in the best possible way).
- Pricing: From £450
53. Steel Band
For a sound that will transport you and your guests straight to the beautiful beaches of the Caribbean, how about a steel drum band?
The guys over at Steelasophical are experts in their field and offer more than 14 genres of Caribbean music on their incredible instruments. Whether you want them for the ceremony, drinks reception, during dinner or to warm up for the evening, your guests will adore them.
- Pricing: From £327
54. Bagpipe Player
Honour your Scottish heritage, or that of your loved ones, by having live bagpipes at the wedding.
Whether you’re actually getting married in a Scottish wedding venue or just want to have the music, there’s no grander way to make an entrance – or exit – in our opinion. Andrew Brian has been playing the pipes since he was nine years old, so he knows a thing or two about how to put on a show for your big day.
- Pricing: From £280
55. Tribute Act
If you can’t get Ed Sheeran or the Spice Girls to perform at your wedding (we hear they’re pretty busy these days…) why not opt for a tribute act instead? A quick search and you’ll find every tribute act you can imagine, whether it’s ABBA or The Carpenters, Elvis or Ed. This is definitely the kind of reception entertainment that will take your guests by surprise!
Our pick? One and Only Adele Tribute Act. Having performed for the likes of ITV, Channel 5, Hilton Hotels, the BBC and even on The Graham Norton Show, pro singer Katie was handpicked by Adele herself to appear on TV.
- Pricing: From £850
56. Perform Your Own Song
If you love to sing, why get someone else to perform at your wedding when you could do it yourself? Eliza Mishcon is a renowned vocal coach with years of experience. She has worked with some huge names, including Adele and Kylie Minogue, and is sure to be able to work her magic on you, too.
- Pricing: From £60
57. Scottish Drummers
Siblings Ross and Ailise – aka Drum + Drones – bring their love of traditional Scottish music to weddings all over the UK. They have decades of experience playing in Scottish bands and have performed at numerous large-scale events such as the Solheim Cup, Cop-26 and more.
Bagpipes are great, but when you pair them with the unmissable sound of traditional Scottish drumming, your guests really will be lost for words.
- Pricing: From £300
58. Vintage Singer
If your wedding celebrations have a retro vibe, there are a number of vintage-inspired singers out there who will perform a beautiful and soulful blend of classics for your ceremony, dinner or evening reception.
We love Abbi-Kaye of Viva la Vintage, whose repertoire includes a broad range of jazz, rock and roll, soul, blues, modern Jukebox faves and more. Dreamy!
- Pricing: From £350
59. Mariachi Band
Ready to bring some Mexican energy to your big day? A mariachi band will do it in spades. They simply can’t be beaten when it comes to engaging with your guests and bringing the party to life.
Our pick? London-based En Vivo Latino, who has years of experience working with nearlyweds and who really bring the romance and festive spirit with its traditional mariachi bands.
- Pricing: From £600
Food & Drink Wedding Entertainment Ideas
These brilliant food entertainment ideas bring all the fun, theatre and colour you need to your reception
60. DIY Cocktail Bar
Perhaps you could ask your venue or catering team to design two signature cocktails – one to represent each of you – based on your personalities and tastes that you love. Then you can bring a whole extra level of fun with a garnish-your-own cocktail bar complete with extras like herbs, edible flowers, fruit, popping candy and even edible glitter!
Guests will love designing their own creations – you could even award a prize to the best cocktail! Enlisting the help of a mobile bar service like Near & Far Mobile Bar means you could take this outdoors for a summer celebration.
- Pricing: From £350
61. Piñata
Enjoy a bit of good old-fashioned party fun with a wedding-themed piñata filled with goodies!
The world is your oyster when it comes to cool designs, whether you want a wedding cake, diamond ring, heart-shaped piñata, your initials or something different entirely. We love this design from the piñata experts, Pinyatay.
- Pricing: £170
62. Champagne Tower
For some glitz and timeless glamour, a champagne tower is the ultimate wedding showstopper. Not only does it make for a stunning photo moment, but it also sets the tone for celebration and luxury. Watching the bubbly cascade through the tiers creates an unforgettable sense of occasion – perfect for toasting your love!
- Pricing: Varies
63. Afternoon Tea
For the ultimate English garden party atmosphere, afternoon tea is a must. And while some couples will opt for afternoon tea to replace a traditional wedding breakfast entirely, another idea is to do a smaller version instead of canapés.
Think outside the box and aim to make it more interactive with teapots filled with gin cocktails and a help-yourself cake and scone display instead of a wedding cake. Experts like Zadie Bakery can help with tasty dishes to feature.
- Pricing: From £15
64. Ice Cream Rolling
For a frozen treat with a difference, the likes of Icy Curls UK will bring their enthralling rolled ice cream treats to your wedding. The company’s products are vegan, too, so even your guests with dietary needs can enjoy them.
It’s great to watch in action – guests can pick from six flavours, including cookies and cream, raspberry ripple, mango and seasonal options like mince pie flavour!
- Pricing: From £250
65. Street Food Vans
If a sit-down meal isn’t for you – or you want something a bit different for your evening menu – street food vans are a great way to keep everyone entertained – and full! They look especially great at festival-style wedding venues.
From Thai food to Mexican, burgers to pizzas, there are so many cool food trucks you can choose from. How about Merseyside-based Taco or Don’t? The brilliant team specialises in fresh and flavourful Mexican classics, including tacos, nachos, punchy slaws and salads, refried beans and churros. Yum!
- Pricing: From £20
- Deals: Hitched couples get an exclusive 5% off their booking.
66. Midnight Feast
Give your favourite childhood activity an adult wedding makeover with pizzas, hot dogs, nachos, doughnuts, popcorn and more.
If your venue has a late licence and you plan on keeping the party going, you’ll want some fuel to keep your guests on the dancefloor – and this is the most fun way to do it! The Pizza Post is the perfect pick for a midnight feast.
- Pricing: From £650
- Deals: Hitched users get an exclusive 5% discount on wedding bookings!
67. Pancake Stand
Are you big brunch fans? Us too. Bring the sweet breakfast vibes to your big day (at any time of the day!) with the most adorable bite-size offerings from Oh So Pancakes.
Alongside its delicious crowd-pleasing Dutch pancakes, the company also offers Belgian waffle sticks and waffle balls with plenty of indulgent toppings.
- Pricing: From £499
68. Hot Chocolate Bar
Perfect for winter weddings and when the evening chill sets in, a hot chocolate bar will be a really welcome addition. And if you make it interactive, whereby guests can help themselves and create their own chocolatey concoctions with cream, marshmallows, chocolate flakes and even alcohol, it doubles as a form of wedding entertainment, too!
Team it with a luxury coffee van service like NannR’s Bar & Coffee Horsebox (which also does the most amazing hot chocolate!) for an extra element of cosiness.
- Pricing: From £100
- Deals: Hitched couples get an exclusive 5% off their booking when they reach out via the link below.
69. Whisky & Cigar Bar
Do it like Don Draper and have a Mad Men-style whisky and cigar bar in the evening at your wedding. You can create a little outdoor lounge with heaters where your guests can sip it on the rocks or in a cocktail, and blow on a cigar. It's a really decadent addition to your night.
The Dorset Cart Company has a number of cute treat carts including a Whisky & Cigar Cart which can feature a number of different drinks, cigars and garnishes for the whisky.
- Pricing: From £125
70. Traditional Ice Cream Cart
Everybody loves ice cream, and a vintage-style ice cream cart lends itself well to outdoor weddings and retro-inspired celebrations. Some, like Delicious Dreams Ice Cream, even serve extras such as candy floss, doughnuts, drinks and more. A brilliant summer wedding idea.
- Pricing: From £460
71. Prosecco Wall
A help-yourself Prosecco wall (or ladder!) always goes down a treat, even more so if guests have the option to pimp their drink with extras such as flavoured syrups and fruit.
Hitched & Sip is one such mobile bar company that offers this service, with mocktails also available.
- Pricing: From £250
- Deals: Hitched users get an exclusive 10% discount on their wedding bookings.
72. Grazing Tables
Grazing tables have long been a popular wedding trend and a wonderful alternative wedding catering idea for an evening reception. It’s also a surprisingly easy way to keep guests occupied as they mill around the tables sampling all the delicious food. Call in the grazing table pros like the Little Graze Company in Worcestershire.
- Pricing: From £100
73. Doughnut Wall
A doughnut wall is easily one of the tastiest fun wedding activities you can include to entertain your wedding guests. We love the cute wall designs – it’s the perfect way to get creative with your food!
Hampshire-based Foodie Catering & Events is one such company who can help you create the perfect treats for your vision.
- Pricing: From £20
74. Dessert Table
Want to go one step further with your sweet offerings? One of our favourite ways to entertain your wedding guests is with a decadent dessert table, like this one designed by Kalm Kitchen. A beautifully styled table will really wow your loved ones and make for some great photographs, too.
- Pricing: From £85
75. Piles of Paella
Incorporate a Spanish twist into your wedding menu and bring an element of theatre to the day with Paella Fella. The company will serve up its authentic Spanish paella in giant paella pans, and not only does it look and smell incredible, but it tastes it, too! Choose from a range of packages, some of which can incorporate Spanish tapas starters, reception cocktails and desserts.
- Pricing: From £3,500
- Deals: Hitched users get a whopping 20% off their wedding bookings
76. Cocktail Show
Put on a real show for your guests with some of the best bartenders around. For great drinks reception entertainment, guests will love having a front row view of the action as their cocktails are being made. We recommend Olive & Pineapple, a company founded by mixologist Andrea Falcone in 2017 which can provide everything from the glassware and bar equipment to the expert bartenders themselves.
- Pricing: From £600
77. Biscuit Decorating
You’ve all heard of biscuit wedding favours, but how about taking things one step further and having a biscuit-decorating station at your wedding where guests can decorate and add their own toppings for a sweet treat to eat or take home?
Guests young and old alike will love this wedding activity. Use the beautiful designs from Honeywell Biscuit Co as inspiration – though perhaps don’t expect them to be quite so spectacular!
- Pricing: From £5
78. Barbecue
Guests will love watching their food being made in real time, and a barbecue cooked by the pros is the perfect way to showcase this – and get their tastebuds going!
John Tomlinson from Smoke Tin Kitchen has been creating bespoke menus for weddings and private parties for years, so he knows a thing or two about what makes a good wedding breakfast. Everything is cooked in his beautifully converted horse box kitchen, which blends perfectly at outdoor events and rustic receptions.
- Pricing: From £30
79. Oyster Bar
If you both love oysters – or you’re getting married on the coast and want to add to the beachy vibes – a mobile oyster bar is something your wedding guests will love to get involved in.
Check out Somerset-based Porlock Bay Oysters which will bring all the indulgent extras to your day, including champagne, Crémant and caviar. Lush!
- Pricing: From £21
80. Cheese, Cheese & More Cheese
For the couple who doesn’t have much of a sweet tooth and would prefer to consume their body weight in cheese (same, same), check out South Yorkshire-based company Cheese Riot, which creates the most epic, show-stopping cheese-themed centrepieces in place of a wedding cake or dessert table, alongside extras such as charcuterie, fruit, seasonal preserves and more.
It can even keep the party going with a mouth-wateringly delicious nacho bar or late-night cheese toastie station. Seriously.
- Pricing: From £10 per head
Entertain Your Wedding Guests FAQ
Everything you need to know about keeping your wedding guests entertained on the big day!
How much does wedding entertainment cost?
Wedding entertainment costs will vary so much. You can arrange fun wedding activities in the form of wedding quizzes, performances from guests and DIY ideas that will cost next to nothing, right the way through to live performers and musicians that could set you back thousands.
Like with most supplier costs, things that will impact the price are how far your wedding entertainers are traveling, how long they are expected to be at the wedding for, and what their running costs are. A photo booth or karaoke pod, for example, is going to have higher running costs than an acoustic soloist or a live painter, so these are all things to consider when booking your entertainment.
The most important thing couples can do is choose one or two wedding entertainment must-haves that really suit their theme and budget.
How to entertain guests at a wedding with music?
Wedding entertainment expert, Nick Harris from Just About Weddings, shares this advice:
“My advice for couples planning their evening entertainment is to really think about how to fill those five hours properly.
"Bands cost a good deal but might only provide two hours of entertainment, while DJs will entertain for the entire duration. Nevertheless, many couples still want live music, so we’d advise booking a mixture of both for the perfect balance! That would be a professional DJ taking care of the dance floor, while the live musicians come in and out all evening. Great entertainment, and great value.
“I’d also suggest not adding too much else to that part of the day, as it may draw guests away from the dance floor and impact the atmosphere."
How to entertain guests at a wedding ceremony?
Ensuring your guests are entertained during your wedding ceremony is key to creating a memorable day for everyone. Here are some brilliant ideas, perfect for adding that extra sparkle to your big day:
- Live music: Hire a string quartet, acoustic guitarist, or harpist to provide a live soundtrack as guests arrive and during key moments of the ceremony. This creates a romantic and elegant atmosphere that guests will adore.
- Welcome drinks or snacks: If your ceremony venue allows, offering a glass of Prosecco, Pimm’s, or soft drinks upon arrival can help set a relaxed and celebratory tone. A small table with light refreshments, such as biscuits or nibbles, can also go a long way.
- Personalised order of service: A beautifully designed order of service with fun details about the couple, a crossword puzzle, or a heartfelt message can keep guests engaged while waiting for the ceremony to begin.
- Interactive décor: Include interactive elements like a guest advice board, a Polaroid camera station, or a wishing tree for guests to leave messages. These provide a fun way for guests to contribute to the celebration before or after the ceremony.
- Unique entrances: Consider making your entrance (or your wedding party's) a little more entertaining. Walking down the aisle to a meaningful or unexpected piece of music can surprise and delight your guests.
- Themed décor and styling: Create a visually stunning ceremony space with dramatic floral arrangements, creative lighting, or unique seating layouts. Guests will be captivated by the effort you’ve put into making the setting special.
- Confetti station: Set up a confetti bar where guests can create their own mix of petals, biodegradable confetti, or colourful paper shapes to shower you with after the "I dos."
- Pre-ceremony performances: If your budget allows, hire a performer, such as a spoken-word poet, a comedian, or a musician, to entertain guests as they arrive. It’s an excellent way to break the ice and set the mood.
- Children’s area: If kids are attending, have a small corner with toys, colouring books, and quiet activities to keep them entertained and prevent distractions during the vows.
- Cultural or personal touches: Incorporating traditions or personalised rituals, like a hand-fasting ceremony or unity candle lighting, not only adds meaning but also keeps your guests intrigued and engaged.
By thinking creatively and considering what will make your loved ones feel involved and entertained, you’ll ensure your ceremony is a joyful and unforgettable experience for everyone.
How to entertain wedding guests between the ceremony and reception?
During the time between the ceremony and reception, you and your wedding party will probably be with the photographer. While the photographs are being taken, it's likely that your guests will be socialising and enjoying a cocktail hour. As most of them will want to catch up on the ceremony and mingle, we'd recommend roaming entertainment – someone or something that can work the room. For example, magicians or live music.
How to entertain guests at the wedding reception?
According to Aston from Singing Surprise, a company that specialises in providing singing waiters to events like weddings and celebrations, the best entertainment for guests "should reflect you as a couple, and music is no exception.
"If you’re a fun loving couple who want to ensure your guests have a day to remember, with lots of surprises and opportunities to get up and dance then we can create a custom show with a scenario that suits your taste.
"If you're worried about a short fall in entertainment between the meal ending and the evening party starting where guests are just expected to sit around and wait, then consider something like singing waters. Our act was devised as a means to fill that gap and add a memorable performance that will not only ensure your guests won't be sat checking their phones, but will be up on their feet dancing."
How to entertain kids at a wedding?
Entertaining kids at a wedding can be challenging, but here are some of our favourite ways to keep them entertained. Many of our Hitched suppliers can bring these ideas to life for you, or alternatively you can DIY them yourselves:
- Kids' activity table: Set up a designated table with colouring books, crayons, pens, stickers, and small craft kits. You can also include wedding-themed activities like "design your own wedding dress" or "create your own wedding bouquet."
- Bubble station: Kids love bubbles! Set up a bubble station with bubble wands, bubble guns, or even a bubble machine to keep them entertained during the reception.
- Games and contests: Organise simple games like a scavenger hunt, ring toss, or a mini relay race. You can also do a wedding-themed version of musical chairs or freeze dance.
- Goody bags: Create goody bags filled with small toys, treats, or themed items (like mini wedding favours). These can keep kids busy during speeches or quieter moments.
- Face painting or temporary tattoos: Hire a face painter or set up a temporary tattoo station. Kids can get fun designs related to the theme of the wedding.
- Photo booth for kids: Create a separate photo booth with fun props (like princess crowns, pirate hats, etc.). They can have a blast taking silly photos!
- Kid-friendly meal: Make sure the kids have their own menu of kid-friendly food items like pizza, chicken nuggets, or mini sandwiches. This will keep them content during the meal.
- Hire a babysitter or kids' coordinator: If the wedding is more formal, consider hiring a babysitter or kids' coordinator to oversee the activities and make sure they are entertained in a safe, supervised environment.
- Outdoor play area (if applicable): If the wedding is outdoors, set up a small play area with toys, balls, or a sandbox. Kids can enjoy playing while the adults mingle.
- Interactive storyteller or magician: Hire an entertainer who can do magic tricks, tell stories, or perform fun tricks for kids. This can be a highlight that they'll talk about after the wedding.
Mixing and matching a few of these ideas will make sure the little guests have an unforgettable time!
Best DIY wedding entertainment ideas to try yourself…
If you're planning a wedding and want to add a personal touch to your entertainment, DIY ideas are a fantastic way to charm your guests while keeping costs down. Here are some of the best DIY wedding entertainment ideas to inspire you:
- DIY photo booth: Create a photo booth corner with a backdrop you’ve made yourself - think floral garlands, fairy lights, or a chalkboard design. Add quirky props like hats, signs, and masks for guests to use. A tripod and a good-quality phone or camera make it easy to capture the fun.
- Lawn games: If you’re hosting an outdoor wedding, set up lawn games like giant Jenga, ring toss, or croquet. These are easy to make with a bit of creativity and can provide hours of fun for guests of all ages.
- Guest book alternatives: Instead of a traditional guest book, try something interactive, like a "message in a bottle" station where guests write advice or wishes for you to read on future anniversaries. Or have guests sign puzzle pieces, which you can assemble and frame later.
- DIY drinks station: Set up a self-serve drinks bar with options like a build-your-own cocktail station or a selection of craft beers. Provide pretty labels, recipe cards, and garnishes to let guests mix their own creations.
- Customised playlist: Curate a playlist of your favourite tunes for the reception. Share a link before the wedding and invite guests to suggest songs - it’s a simple way to ensure everyone hears something they love. Play the music through rented speakers for a cost-effective yet lively party atmosphere.
- Wedding favour activity: Turn wedding favours into a hands-on activity. A DIY sweet bar, where guests can fill their own bags with pick-and-mix, or a make-your-own mini bouquet station with fresh flowers, adds an interactive element to your favours.
- Quiz or trivia game: Host a personalised trivia game about the bride and groom. Print quiz cards for each table or set up a quiz corner, and let guests compete to see who knows the happy couple best.
- Polaroid guest book: Provide a Polaroid camera and a scrapbook where guests can snap photos, write a message, and stick their picture. It’s a fun and heartfelt keepsake you’ll treasure.
- DIY dessert station: Set up a dessert bar with cupcakes, doughnuts, or biscuits for guests to decorate themselves. Provide icing, sprinkles, and toppings for a deliciously fun activity.
- Themed craft table: If your wedding has a specific theme, create a craft table where guests can make something on-theme, like floral crowns, decorated jars, or personalised keepsakes.
How to find wedding entertainment near me?
We have so many more wedding entertainment ideas in our suppliers section, so simply head to our website and choose your location, then browse our fun wedding entertainment suppliers that are just waiting to become part of your special day.
We have so many more wedding entertainment ideas in our marketplace, so get browsing!
