Every party needs some entertainment. No matter what event you’re hosting, whether it’s an office party, birthday, anniversary, baby shower or dinner party, throwing some entertainment or games into the mix is essential.
But what is the best party entertainment idea?
1. Comedian
If you’re hosting a formal or large event with a big guest list or at a hired venue, then hiring a comedian could be the answer to your party entertainment.
Professional comedians are pretty expensive, but they’re sure to put on a great show and make sure your guests have a hilarious nights. But if you want a cheaper alternative, then look for an amateur comedian looking to get their name out there.
Starting from around £250 / $250. Professional comedians charge anywhere from £500 / $500 to tens of thousands depending on how well-known they are.
2. Live Band
A live band is brilliant for creating an amazing atmosphere at your party or event. You can choose any type of live band to suit any kind of event or party theme, from pop tribute band, to an authentic cèilidh band.
They are one of the more expensive entertainment ideas on the list, but it’s hard to match the atmosphere that a live band creates. You can either have a band as the focus of the party or in the background to create the perfect ambience.
Average Price
Professional bands cost upwards of £1000 / $1000, but newer, less well-known bands looking to get their name out there will be significantly cheaper.
3. Dancers
Why we think it’s a great idea:
Average Price
Starting from around £300/ $300
4. Classic Party Games
- Charades
- Pictionary
- Joking Hazard
- Cards against Humanity
- What do you Meme?
- Celebrity Who am I?
Why we think it’s a great idea:
Average Price
Free!
5. Magician
Why we think it’s a great idea:
Average Price
Starting from around £250 / $250.
6. Fortune Teller
Average Price
Starting from around £100 / $100
7. Circus Performers
Why we think it’s a great idea:
Average Price
Starting from around £75 / $75 per hour
8. DJ
Average Price
Starting from around £50 / $50 per hour
9. Funfair Stalls and Games
Starting from around £100 / $100
10. Photo Booths and Shoots
Average Price
Starting from around £200 / $200
11. Murder Mystery
Murder mystery nights have become a really popular adult party idea over the past couple of years.
They work for any event type, whether it’s large or small. It’s also great because it barely costs anything, you just need some equipment and supplies to set it up, but you don’t need to hire any event services. It just takes a little bit of planning but it’s well worth it!
12. Mr and Mrs Competition
13. Open Mic
This idea is a bit of a different one. It won’t suit every type of party, but it’s good for some kinds of events that are a bit more relaxed and informal. Open mic nights are a great idea if you want some free entertainment that’s really varied.
You can get comedians, singers, poets and many different people involved. You’ll just need a good microphone and sound system to be able to set it up.
Why we think it’s a great idea:
Average Price
Starting from £50 / $50 for equipment hire.
14. Caricaturist
This is a brilliant idea for a range of party types. Caricaturists can be the focus of the party entertainment or make up part of the birthday fun.
They’re not the cheapest party entertainer on this list, but hiring a caricaturist is a great idea because all the guests can take home a personalised drawing to keep from the party.
Plus is a unique idea that is likely to get copied by some of your friends!
Why we think it’s a great idea:
It’s a unique idea and gives each of the guests a personalised gift to take home.
Average Price
Starting from around £150/ $150
15. Silent Disco
Why we think it’s a great idea:
Average Price
Starting from around £25 / $25 per headphone, but as little as £2 / $2 if you hire a lot.
16. Inflatables
Why we think it’s a great idea:
Average Price
From £75-100 / $75-100
17. Karaoke
Karaoke parties are the ultimate way for guests to get involved and have fun with the party entertainment. Karaoke machines are really easy to set up at home, you just need some basic equipment.
Head over to our list of the top 20 karaoke machines which includes the best party karaoke machine options. It’s great for any age group and can be set up at home or in a hired venue. Take a look at our karaoke party tips for some advice.
Why we think it’s a great idea:
It’s easy to set up and is perfect to entertain guests without costing a fortune.
Average Price
Karaoke machines cost from £50/ $50
18. Cocktail Masterclass
Drink tasting and masterclasses are a great entertainment idea for adults. There are loads of great bartenders that offer masterclasses for events and parties.
They’ll bring all the equipment and ingredients to make sure everyone can have a try at making their favourite cocktail. This idea works great for smaller parties or events as the focus of the entertainment, or as a side activity for large parties.
Why we think it’s a great idea:
It’s a reasonably priced and unique party entertainment idea that works for both formal and casual events.
Average Price
Starting from around £25 / $25 per person
19. Outdoor Cinema
Why we think it’s a great idea:
Average Price
The equipment will cost upwards of £100 / $100.
20. Giant Outdoor Games
Why we think it’s a great idea:
It’s a great idea if you’re hosting an outdoor summer party and are looking for some casual and fun entertainment.
Average Price
Starting from around £20 / $20 depending on the game.
Don’t forget to take a look at our party planning timeline to make sure you’ve got everything covered.
It’ll tell you everything you need to do at each stage of the party planning process so you can create an amazing event without any stress or worry about forgetting anything! It even includes a free printable party planning checklist to make sure you stay on track.
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