| It used to be found only at the carnival, or | | | | a moonwalk or bounder. |
| the amusement park. The inflatable funhouses | | | | |
| known as moonwalks or bouncers are now | | | | A few of the moonwalks add layers of fun by |
| available at any "rent-a-party" house. | | | | incorporating a water slide in the unit. |
| | | | Imagine the backyard fun with one's own |
| The soft vinyl structures come in various | | | | trampoline, playhouse, waterslide and |
| sizes and shapes. The designs range from | | | | tumbling mat all present in one small space. |
| whimsical to superhero, at least on the | | | | |
| outside. A review of some of the current | | | | Most party rental stores now carry a |
| offerings includes Dora the Explorer, | | | | selection of moonwalks or bouncers in various |
| Spiderman, Finding Nemo and Disney Princess | | | | sizes. The frazzled parent has much of the |
| Club. | | | | entertainment problems solved by renting a |
| | | | moonwalk unit, setting it up in the backyard, |
| The basic unit consists of an inflatable | | | | and inviting 6-8 or more small guests to |
| base, partially mesh sidewalls with corner | | | | celebrate with the birthday child. Sticky |
| pillars, and decorative panels and roof | | | | fingers and spilled drinks won't hurt the |
| shapes to fit the theme. The idea, of course | | | | nearly indestructible vinyl, and children can |
| is to allow a whole partyful of rambunctious | | | | be free to enjoy the physical activity |
| youngsters to jump, bounce and tumble to | | | | without risk of safety issues. |
| their heart's content in perfect safety. | | | | |
| While acrobatics such as those performed on a | | | | The cost varies depending on the unit size |
| trampoline unit are not possible with the | | | | and delivery area, but a half-day of |
| moonwalk inflatable bouncer, the units are | | | | entertainment including food and decorations |
| much safer due to the sidewalls and the lack | | | | for a child's birthday party typically runs |
| of any metal or hard plastic to collide with. | | | | well under $200. |
| It's also virtually impossible to fall out of | | | | |