The longer answer is that every quote depends on a few things, mainly the date, how long you want them for, where you live and what's included. This guide explains what pushes the price up, what you should expect to get for your money and how to spot a deal that's too good to be true.
| What you\’re booking | Typical UK price | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Children's party show (magic, games or both) | £250 to £450 | Depends on date, length, location and what's included. |
| Longer party with games, music and magic | Ask for a quote | More time with the entertainer usually means a higher price. |
| Balloon modelling as an extra | Usually adds to the price | Extra time is needed so every child gets one. |
| Saturday, Sunday or December date | Usually adds to the price | The busiest slots, so book early. |
| School, nursery or club party | Ask for a quote | Group size, time of day and length all matter. |
| Travel to a more remote location | Can add to the price | We'll look for someone close by to keep this down. |
What a children's entertainer costs, in plain terms
For a typical birthday party, expect a quote somewhere in the £250 to £450 range. That's for a proper show from an experienced children's entertainer, not a friend of a friend with a few tricks.
Where you land in that range depends on your party. A shorter weekday party close to the entertainer's home is more likely to sit at the lower end. A long Saturday afternoon party in December, with balloons on top, won't be.
What pushes the price up
Time is the big one. A short magic show costs less than a full party where the entertainer runs games, music and the food break as well as the show.
Then there are extras like balloon modelling, which take extra time. Weekends and busy dates (December, the end of the summer term, bank holidays) are in high demand. And if the entertainer has to travel a long way, that's usually reflected too.
What's usually included
Most of our entertainers bring everything they need for the show: props, music, sound equipment and prizes for the games. Many give the birthday child a special moment and fit around your food break.
What's included varies from one entertainer to the next, though, so we'll spell it out with your quote. If something matters to you, like balloons for every child or a theme, say so on the form.
How to compare quotes fairly
Two quotes can look very different and still be fair. Check they're for the same length of time, and that both include the same things. One might include balloons and prizes. The other might be for the show alone.
Also check the times. Does the quote cover arrival and setting up, or just the performance? It's an easy thing to miss and it can make a cheap quote look cheaper than it really is.
Red flags with very cheap offers
A price far below what everyone else is quoting is worth a second look. It might be someone just starting out, which is fine if you know that, but it can also mean very little experience with large groups of children.
Ask any entertainer, cheap or not, whether they have a current DBS check and public liability insurance (halls often ask for proof of insurance). Ask what they need from you, how long they'll be there and what happens if they're ill. A professional will be happy to answer. Someone who's vague about all of it is telling you something.
Booking ahead for weekends
Saturday and Sunday afternoons go first, especially in term time and in the run-up to Christmas. If your date's fixed, ask early. Leaving it until the last week usually means less choice.
Flexible on the day? A Friday after school or a Sunday morning can open up more options, and may help with the price too.
Getting your own quote
The quickest way to a real number is to tell us about the party. Fill in the quote form with the date, rough timings, the child's age, how many children and whether it's at home or in a hall.
We'll come back, usually the same day, with who's free and a clear price. No obligation. For more on what different entertainers do, see our children's entertainer page.