How to Choose a Kids Party Entertainer: Types, Questions to Ask and Tips
Short answer: match the entertainer to the kids’ age and the space, book 45 to 60 minutes of show time, and ask for videos of real parties before you pay a deposit. Magicians and clowns work best for ages 4 to 8, face painters and balloon artists for any age, and DJs with games for older kids. Book four to six weeks ahead, and earlier for weekends in spring and December. Below is how to choose a kids party entertainer by age and space, the types of kids party entertainers, and the questions to ask a party entertainer before hiring.
How to Choose a Kids Party Entertainer
Start with the age of the kids
- Ages 2 to 4: short, gentle shows. Bubbles, puppets, simple songs and a character visit. Keep it to 30 to 45 minutes.
- Ages 4 to 8: the sweet spot for magicians, clowns and costume characters, with plenty of audience participation.
- Ages 8 to 12: science shows, game hosts, a DJ with dance contests, and bigger magic.
- Mixed ages: face painters and balloon artists work for everyone, because each child gets their own turn.
Fit the show to the space
A magic show needs a clear area where the kids can sit in front of the performer. A character meet and greet needs room for photos. Outdoors, check for shade, wind and noise. Tell the entertainer how big the room is and how many kids will come.
Decide how long you need
Most kids stay focused for 45 to 60 minutes. A common plan is a 45 minute show, then face painting or balloon twisting while kids eat cake. For longer parties, combine two acts instead of booking one for three hours.
Types of Kids Party Entertainers
Knowing the types of kids party entertainers helps you match the act to the theme and the age:
The main acts
- Magicians: a show with tricks, comedy and the birthday child as an assistant.
- Clowns: games, jokes, balloon animals and silly magic.
- Costume characters: princesses, superheroes and favorite cartoon friends for photos and games. See our character performers.
- Face painters: designs for every child, from butterflies to superheroes.
- Balloon artists: swords, animals and hats to take home.
- Puppet shows and storytellers: great for toddlers and preschool parties.
- Science and animal shows: hands-on fun for curious kids.
- DJs and game hosts: music, dance contests and party games for older kids.
Questions to Ask a Party Entertainer Before You Book
Hiring a party entertainer is easier when you ask the same questions every time. Keep these questions to ask a party entertainer next to the phone:
Your checklist
- Can I see videos or photos from recent parties?
- What ages is the show made for, and how long does it run?
- How much space and setup time do you need?
- Do you bring your own sound and props?
- How does the birthday child take part?
- What is the total price, including travel, and what is the deposit?
- What happens if you are late or if the party runs over?
- Are you insured, and do you have references?
- Have you passed a background check? Every performer we book has.
What Kids Party Entertainers Cost
Price depends on the act, the length of the show, the day of the week and travel distance. A single act for an hour costs less than two performers or a full party package. Saturday afternoons cost the most. To save, book a weekday or a Sunday morning, or choose a package that bundles a show with face painting or balloons. See our kids party packages for set prices and times.
Tips for a Smooth Party
- Send the entertainer the birthday child’s name, age and favorite characters.
- Plan the show before cake, while the kids still have energy to sit and watch.
- Seat the kids on the floor in front, with parents behind them.
- Keep pets and toys out of the performing area.
- Have the gift or payment ready so the entertainer can leave on time.
Hiring a Party Entertainer: Common Questions
How far ahead should I book?
Four to six weeks for most dates, and two to three months for spring and December Saturdays. The best performers book first.
One entertainer or two?
For up to about 20 kids and a two hour party, one show plus face painting or balloons is plenty. For bigger groups, two performers keep lines short. When you choose a kids party entertainer for a big group, ask if they bring a partner.
Is a party package better than hiring a party entertainer on their own?
Usually, yes. A package bundles a show with face painting, balloons or games for a set time, and it costs less than booking each act separately.
Book a Kids Entertainer
We book magicians, clowns, face painters, balloon artists and characters for birthdays across New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Pennsylvania, and we can add a bounce house or a DJ to the same order. See all our kids entertainment or call (718) 787-4477 or send us a text. We are open 7 days, 8am to 8pm.
