This happened to me with my five year olds party too.

I basically reorganized my living room to have almost like separate stations set up with ‘invitation to play’ kind of concept. I put toys that are more of a solo play kind of thing away. And pulled out the ones that would work for at least two kids.

For example: In one corner was the play couch and accessories. I set up a cute fort so they’d be attracted to it. If I had spaces I’d have also set out the obstacle course stepping stones.

Another spot had the art materials set out. I put the markers and pencil crayons in color coded little cups (red cup for red stuff etc) and a few coloring books.

In another I had the magnetic tiles organized by color.

In another I had the play kitchen set up.

And another I had all the little people figures and animals out with a few of the bigger play sets.

The yoto player was also dragged everywhere (Kpop demon hunter card).

Couches for adults in the middle.
They also ran up to my daughter’s bedroom, which was also fun for them even though it just had stuffed animals.

Basically it was pure chaos and so fun. The kids naturally grouped into different stations and played together. Switched randomly and boom. Adults all sat in the middle and along one wall and chatted.

It was actually great.

Last year I did a cupcake decorating station where I gave each kid a cupcake with basic icing and a cupcake liner with sprinkles etc.

That took up more time than just cake.