Birthday Party Planner Countdown

Keep your birthday party planning on track with this helpful checklist. From setting a budget to finding a venue, this timeline is sure to make your bash a success.

Six Weeks to Go

Decide on time and budget
Research costs of party locations and packages
Research entertainers for in-home party
Check websites, such as Pinterest, for theme and game ideas

Four Weeks to Go

Choose party theme
Select party location
Determine maximum number of guests
Finalize date and time
Book and send deposits for entertainers or party locations

Three Weeks to Go

Make and send e-vites
Order cake and food
Arrange for extra helpers

Two Weeks to Go

Shop for paper goods, theme props, goodie bags and game prizes
Make favors and/or assemble goodie bags
Plan games and make any decorations or game props
Select a party playlist
Buy any craft supplies needed for party crafts

One Week to Go

Confirm final numbers with party location
Confirm arrangements with entertainer
Shop for non-perishable foods and ingredients
Develop a schedule for the party day

Three Days to Go

Confirm that helpers will show up
Finalize all props and music needed for games and crafts

Two Days to Go

Make food that will keep in refrigerator or freezer
Check the house for safety hazards
Put away any special breakables

One Day to Go

Bake or pick up cake

Checklist for At Home Party

Six hours to go
Pick up last-minute items, such as helium balloons
Clean up clutter and put away any special items not used for the party

Four Hours to Go
Decorate house

Three Hours to Go
Make final food preparations
Make final game preparations

One Hour to Go
Set table
Dress yourself and your children

30 Minutes to Go
Have helpers arrive
Run through schedule and basic responsibilities with helpers
Put out materials for first activity or game

Party Time!
Welcome your guests