Want to have a party outside the home? There are many places you can go, some you may not have even thought of. Before you decide take a look at what you need to know before you go. Also see EZParty Points and Ponders for the difference between ‘Home’ and ‘Away’ parties.
The Basics of Planning a Party at a Different Location
When planning on where to go for your party think about the following and be prepared to ask questions about the party place to determine your cost.
Food
- Are there set menu’s that you can choose from?
- What is on the menu? Is it appropriate for your party guests?
- Are there other food alternatives available, i.e. allergies (nuts), vegetarians?
- Can you bring in your own food i.e. cake?
Time and Place
- How many guests can they accommodate? Is there a minimum amount of guests that can attend and a maximum that they can hold?
- How long can you stay?
- Activities available? Entertainment?
- If the party is outside is there a ‘Plan B’ should the weather be bad?
Extras
For children’s parties the place is the theme. Do they provide invitations, party favours, goodie bags, decorations? If not can you bring your own?
Cost
After determining the above estimate the cost per person, compare to your budget.
Cost Saving Tips
- Co-host with a friend or relative. A joint party can be fun and you save on the costs.
- Pick an off time for the party. For example pick a weeknight rather than a weekend or select an earlier date for a Christmas party.
- Don’t plan the party at a meal time, have appetizers or snacks instead.
Where To Go?
Children’s Parties
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Outside
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Inside
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Popular Restaurants
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Mini Golf Rock Climbing Sport Event (Baseball, Football) Amusement Park Water Park Zoo Farm Beach Park
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Mini Golf Rock Climbing Sport Event (Hockey) Play Centre Gymnastics Club Dance Studio Beauty Salon Martial Arts Studio Ice Rink/Roller Rink Movie Theatre Bowling Science Centre Museum Laser Tag
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McDonalds Pizza Hut Boston Pizza Chuck E. Cheese Burger King
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Adults and Families
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Racing (Car, Horse) Golf Club/Local Resort Beach (Volleyball) Park Boat (Tour) Pool
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Hotel/Conference Centre Community Centre Casino Old High School Church
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Olive Garden Red Lobster IHOP Ruby Tuesday TGIF Denny’s Applebees The Old Spaghetti Factory East Side Marios (Canada) Jack Astors (Canada)
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Bring Them to You
Many times you can have the party come to you. Here are some ideas for a house party with a Twist !
Children’s
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Older Children & Adults
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Critters – Animals in your house; reptiles, insects, furry creatures of all kinds Mad Science – Local Science teachers/enthusiasts do all kinds of experiments and the children can participate Circus Games – Rent a variety of circus games from a local party equipment rental Balloon Castles - There are a number of new castles with themes and slides Entertainers – Magic, Costume (pirate, princess), clowns
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Spa – Bring in local beauticians for manicures and pedicures Astrology/Numerology – A local expert to give readings Craft/Painting – A local artist to show the basics International Flair – Pick a country, bring in the experts, plan the food and games around the country Rent a Limo – take the guests to a local restaurant or venue in style
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