Birthday Party Checklist
Click here for the printable version (PDF)
Four to Six Weeks before the Party
- Set the party date & time
- Book the location if the party is to be held outside your home
- Establish a party budget
- Create your guest list
- Choose a party theme
- Order party supplies & party favors
- Book entertainment (clown, magician, etc.) and bouncehouses
Three Weeks before the Party
Two Weeks before the Party
- Order balloons
- Order Cake
- Plan party activities & games
- Take inventory of kitchen items and tableware to use for the party.
- Order any party rental equipment
One Week before the Party
- Buy non-perishable food and beverages
- Buy candles
- Buy film, video tape & batteries
- Buy extra garbage bags, foil & plastic wrap
- Schedule activities
- Buy piñata & candy fillers
- Confirm entertainment
- Call or email guests who haven't RSVPed
- Do heavy cleaning
Two Days before the Party
- Check camera batteries & film. Charge batteries if necessary.
- Make space in the refrigerator
- Buy groceries
- Assemble party favor bags
Day before the Party
- Clean bathrooms & party area
- Decorate party room
- Organize and set out party favors
- Place crafts and prizes near activity stations
- Prepare any food that can be refrigerated overnight
Party Day
- Pick up cake, ice and balloons
- Decorate outdoor areas
- Tie some balloons to the mailbox or front porch
- Set up party games
- Prepare all food
- Check bathrooms for toilet paper, soap & towels
- Relax, smile & have fun!