Halloween Party Planning Guide
A great Halloween party is really just a few decisions made in the right order. Sort the guest list and theme first, get the room and food planned next, and leave costumes and finishing touches for the final week.
We have packed over 3 million orders since 2005, so this countdown is built from what actually works, not guesswork.
Your countdown
- Four weeks out. Set a date, a rough headcount and a theme (haunted house, classic monsters, glow party). Send invites.
- Two weeks out. Order decorations, tableware and balloons together so it all arrives in one go. Free UK delivery kicks in over £45.
- One week out. Plan food and drink, buy sweets and pick up any props. Sort your own costume.
- Party day. Decorate in the morning, inflate balloons a few hours before, set the food table last.
How much to buy
- Tableware: allow 1.5 plates and cups per guest, since people put things down and lose track.
- Sweets and treats: a couple of handfuls per child if trick-or-treaters are calling too.
- Balloons: one feature cluster of 15 to 20 by the food or photo wall goes further than scattering them thinly.
- Ice and drinks: plan around 3 to 4 drinks per adult across the evening.
Frequently asked questions
How many people can I invite to a home Halloween party?
For a comfortable house party, count on standing room for around one guest per square metre of party space once you allow for a food table and a dance or games area. It is better to have a busy small room than a half-empty large one.
Should I set a theme or just say Halloween?
A tighter theme, such as classic monsters or a glow party, makes it far easier for guests to plan costumes and for you to pick decorations. It also stops the room looking like a mix of everything.
Build your party from all Halloween supplies: decorations, tableware and balloons.