I've finally decided that I wanted to have Kaitlyns 1st birthday party at a park so that it accompanies the needs of all age ranges. The one I had in mind was Central Park of Huntington Beach (here in Ca.). It has a lake with ducks they give you food to feed, a few playgrounds, volleyball, frisbee golf, an equestrian center, nature trail etc..... and the fee to reserve the picnic table..... $450.00..........OMG!!! That is absolutely ridiculous. I've been searching more parks and the cheapest i've gotten was $150.00, and they wanted to charge the guests a parking fee. I just don't see why its so expensive.

Grrrrr...... i'm soooo annoyed.

Thanks for letting me vent!!

By Eve on Monday, March 29, 2004 - 11:43 am:

Wow! That is a lot! Do you have to reserve it? What would someone do if they just wanted to go and have lunch in the park and sit at a picnic table? Could you go early and just set up? I hope you can figure something out! That does seem expensive!

By Boxzgrl on Monday, March 29, 2004 - 11:54 am:

I'm sure I could probably do that but it is on a Saturday in May here in beautiful sunny Ca. There are good chances of somebody reserving it. Do they know not everybody is made out of money??? I know its Huntington Beach but my goodness... give me a break.
Do they offer military discount??? LOL (DH ALWAYS has to ask that)

By Annie2 on Monday, March 29, 2004 - 12:26 pm:

I would still have it at the park. Try to do what Eve suggested and get there early to set up. If the table is reserved, it should be marked or something.
If not, just bring many blankets and make it a picnic on blankets. Maybe bring some beach chairs or folding chairs for the older guests. Maybe borrow a card table or two and chairs.
The park does sound like a great idea.

By Kate on Monday, March 29, 2004 - 12:52 pm:

That's outrageous!! I'm in shock!!!

By Ladypeacek on Monday, March 29, 2004 - 01:39 pm:

That is outrageaous, I was going to be married in botanical gardens which is also a public park. Well it cost 675 for 1/2 and hour AND the public could come through the wedding if they chose! I thought if we paid that much the puclic could wait for a few minutes, its not like weddings take long!

By Coopaveryben on Monday, March 29, 2004 - 03:44 pm:

I can't believe that. Our parks don't charge anything, they are public but still very nice.

By Cat on Monday, March 29, 2004 - 04:03 pm:

Youch! Any options on base/post? That's more than just a bit extreme.

By Andi on Tuesday, March 30, 2004 - 10:17 am:

Living here in sunny San Diego you should take advantage of our beautiful beaches. Set up some tables, beach chairs and a few play pens with umbrellas over them and make it a fun day for everyone at the beach! It's FREE and so much fun.
Another option is La Jolla Shores. They have that grassy area where you can have the party and the kids can play at the park or go to the beach. Just get there really early and grab a spot.
Good Luck.

By Mommyathome on Tuesday, March 30, 2004 - 11:27 am:

The beach sounds idea like a LOT of fun!

By Boxzgrl on Tuesday, March 30, 2004 - 03:40 pm:

I'm not much of a beach person and I hate the sand so i'd rather not do that. I guess i'll just have to go and set up early on another area of the park. Maybe in a shady area and just bring my own tables, chairs and bbqs. Thats fine with me if I dont have to pay $450.00!!!