Party times.

[MegGriffin]

I have a special birthday coming up and want to have a party/gathering at my house. Due to health problems I dont have the stamina to last a whole evening and enjoy it so I'm looking at doing a drop in or stay type thing. Do any of you have opinions on the times. We will be provide finger food/snacks and the idea is you can come for as long or short as you would like.

Suggested times.
1-5, 2-6 or to go over to early evening something like 3-8 . I just wondered what time you might prefer on a Saturday in February. Kids will be welcome.

I would go for a late afternoon option especially if people are bringing their kids.
I had a Christmas drinks party this year where we said 3-6pm. It worked really well as the last person left at 6.30, and we could relax and get to bed at a decent time. The danger with evening parties is you get one or 2 that get stuck into the mulled wine and then forget to leave! I don't drink so by 10 I'm knackered and just want to clear up and go to bed, and it's just quite awkward with drunk stragglers who are up for a big night.

I'd go for 1 - 5 in the hope that people come and have the finger food as a late lunch but leave to go home for tea. Plus then you've got a few hours to leisurely do the tidying up and get settled with a takeaway before bed.

Thank you for your reply dancing badger, this is what I am thinking.

Thank you therewerefour, it's helpful to hear everyone's opinions as I keep going round in circles.

I'd rather do 1-5 both as a guest & a host. Covers lunch time so no wondering if you're going to get fed & plenty time after to get the kids back / tidy up & have a nice relaxed night

Thank you 4forksake.