Debra, I like the way you think!
One gathering here that is traditional is a fairly large Easter Egg Hunt. Last year, my first year here, it was attended by maybe 30 kids and at least one parent for each, plus a few adults who dig the scene.
HIDING the eggs, and then SWARMING to FIND the eggs -- welp, I am going to have to think about this. I expect I'll be able to have some area off limits but I also imagine there will be a bit of damage I'll have to reconcile myself to. I'll try to time planting out anything sensitive for after the hunt!
And then there is a neighborhood garden walk, which just started last year, and which I know my cousin will want to add our newly gorgeous backyard to, so that event is not a problem really.
I'm remembering one year before I moved here, though, there was a big event that was a memorial gathering for a family member (long enough after his decease that it was more of a joyful remembrance) that involved tents and tables and chairs and all kinds of stuff.... It took up a large amount of the available area. But I don't think I have to plan for such an eventuality.
