Birthday party timing

[EmmasDilemmas]

I am sorting out my son’s birthday party, he will be 4. We’re going to book a great entertainer that we’ve used before for our older child. My usual preferred timing is something like 10.30-12.30 so party finishes with lunch, but entertainer is not available in the morning (we definitely want this person and this date). So I’m interested to know please with kids this age would you prefer to attend:

1. Party 12.15-2.15 starting with lunch, entertainer 1-2 and cake to finish; or

2. Party 3-5 finishing with party tea and cake.

For both options it will be on a Saturday and at a community centre near the nursery they all go to (so hopefully not a long commute for anyone though not 100% sure where everyone lives). Food probably sandwiches, fruit, crisps etc though the kitchen at the venue is ok so I could do some very simple hot food too.

3 to 5 is very standard for my DC at that age.

We had a similar dilemma for my son's 5th birthday, aside from the 3-5 slot was unavailable. As it was over lunch time we got some sandwiches/muffins/fruit/drinks for the adults too which was appreciated. In your shoes I would have the later time as then the kids can have the party food as their tea and you dont really need to cater for the adults.

3-5. The other slot is a pain for parents knowing how much to feed their kids beforehand.

I think I'd choose option 2 as the host, but I'd attend either happily.

3-5 allows the family the whole day up until 3. The other option keeps them tied before and delayed starting anything after.

Go with 3-5. With the 12.15-2.15 slot expecting the kids to arrive and sit down to lunch straight away might not work, they’ll be excited and want to play. If you do go for that time it might be better to do the entertainer first then a 1pm lunch. Also, with that time you really should put on some food for the adults since they won’t get to eat lunch otherwise. So whilst it’ll be fine, 3-5 would be better/easier given you have the choice.

3 to 5 is perfect. My kids had tea at 4.30 at nursery so they were hungry at this time naturally

3-5.

12:15 start is a bit annoying as a parent because I’d want my own lunch before 2:15 (and wouldn’t ever assume I’d be fed at the party).

Thanks everyone. That’s a clean sweep!

Either OK but I reckon doing lunch at the start is hard when they are excited. 3-5 better