When planning a party, the number one goal should be to make sure your guests have an amazing time. And with the right entertainment, you can make sure this happens. However, finding affordable and fun party entertainment ideas can be a challenge, especially when you are already so overwhelmed trying to plan the rest of your party. So we’ve done some of the heavy lifting and come up with an easy and unique list of possible entertainment ideas for your next party or event.

Here’s a list of 23 different party entertainment ideas that you can book for your next party or special event. Prices will vary depending on which idea you choose and depending on where you live.

1. Party Band

Party Bands are perfect if your budget and group size allows. They are arguably the most fun live entertainment you can book for any party or event. Party bands have an ability to take the atmosphere of your party to the next level, transforming the vibe into something dynamic and energized and giving your guests a time to remember. To help in your search, most party bands have video samples on their site, a sample song list to look at and lots of testimonials and reviews to make sure you are securing a band that is high quality.

Things to consider:

When looking for a party band near you, it can be difficult to know where to start unless you already know of bands in the area. If this is a situation you find yourself in, we recommend contacting a booking agency, like Moontower Entertainment, to ensure that your live music meets all your party expectations. Booking agencies can put you in contact with hundreds of top local artists and bands, and will ensure that you find the sound you are looking for.

Average Cost: Varies depending on the band’s size & availability; prices range from $2500+

2. Talent Shows

Looking for something interactive and a little more budget-friendly? Talent shows are an inexpensive and easy-to-plan activity for some fun cocktail party entertainment. You can encourage brave guests to perform their greatest talents such as dancing, singing, and comedy. To set this up, you would just have to provide an area with a mic and give each performer a turn to take over the stage. You can offer prizes to people who take part to encourage participation, or, you can even raise the stakes by making it a competition.

Things to consider:

If you decide you want to host a talent show at your party, be sure to advertise that it is happening well before the time of the party because you want to give your guests enough time to prepare for the show. Also, if this is a 21+ event, you could even make a drinking game out of the talent show and to give your guests some liquid courage.

Average Cost: (FREE - but you might need to rent a PA system)

3. Electric Violinist

If you are hosting more of an upscale event or are looking to do something different, electric violinists offer a unique form of live music that will be sure to impress all of your guests. Their music catalogs usually range from classical to contemporary, and they provide a sophisticated soundtrack that will take your party to the next level.

Things to consider:

When hiring a Violinist, make sure that you know their skill level and be sure that it matches the ambiance and vibe of the event you want to create. Paying a little extra for someone who is a professional at violin might just be worth it for your guests. If you are having trouble finding the perfect musician for your event, contact a booking agency like Moontower Entertainment, they can ensure that your live music meets all your party expectations with the hundreds of artists on their roster.

Average Cost: $400+ per hour depending on experience

4. Drag Show

Are you feeling adventurous and looking for something unique to have at your next party? Then what better way to do that than with a Live Drag Show! With Drag rising in popularity over the last 10 years, this is the perfect way to present a fresh and youthful entertainment option to guests.

Things to consider:

If you are planning on hosting a Drag Show, be sure you understand if your guests would be comfortable with attending, and make sure you let them know what the entertainment will be so they can have the option to dress up to!

5. Edible Art Pieces and Arrangements

Edible arrangements and art pieces are always visually stunning, with the wide variety of colors and foods sure to leave anyone in awe. Having an arrangement at your next party is a great interactive way to have food available for your guests as well. The possibilities for what you can do are endless, from donut walls to cotton candy clouds the only limit is your imagination.

Things to consider:

These are a great option if you are looking for something that's customizable, most of the time the artist can create the arrangement in any way you like.

6. Photo Booths

Photo booths are a staple in any fun party and can literally create memories that last a lifetime. Snapping funny pictures and recording the fun night of your party will encourage guests to interact with each other and make new friends and memories. You can look for an event space with a booth area, you can DIY a photo station, or you can hire one of the many popular photo booth companies to bring a professional camera set-up wherever you are hosting your party or event.

Things to consider:

If you utilize a company, make sure you know if the photo booth you hired comes with someone to work it or not. Oftentimes it will, but there are some cases where it’s only an equipment rental, and having someone there to help guests use it can be helpful to ensure things flow smoothly.

Average Cost: Free - $200 per hour

7. Karaoke

If you and your friends love to belt your favorite songs together, then throwing in some Karaoke to your party might be just the thing to do. All you really need is a speaker, microphone, and phone or tablet to play song lyrics off of and you are set. This is the perfect idea for anyone who is looking to add a little energy to their next party, on a budget. You can also a hire a company that provides live band karaoke, like Moontower Radio, where a full band will back you and your friends, giving you the full rockstar experience.

Things to consider:

Make sure that you or one of your friends owns sound equipment, if not then it might be worth it to look into local karaoke bars nearby. Oftentimes you can even rent private rooms and sing to your heart's content without having to embarrass yourself in front of strangers.

Average Cost: (FREE + cost of sound equipment OR a live band karaoke experience starting at $3k+.....or free if you attend an event at a bar)

8. Cartoon or Caricature Artists

Before there were photo booths, there were artists drawing by hand. A caricaturist or cartoon artist is a fun way to capture your guests' personalities and provide them with a personalized party favor they will never forget. These artists are great for any type of party at any age. If you plan on having a large number of people coming, we recommend booking several artists so you don't get super long lines. Let your guests hang loose and have fun as the talented artists get to work thinking of silly and goofy ways to draw everyone.

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Things to consider:

Consider if this matches the vibe you want to create at your event. If you want something to get people dancing and have a high-energy moment, this might not be the entertainment option for you.

Average Cost: $125-$250 per hour

9. Mixology Classes

Mixology classes are at the top of the list when it comes to intimate party entertainment ideas. Rather than offering your guests pre-made drinks, become a professional with a two-hour mixology class to really start the party. You could even turn it into a competition to see who can make the best-tasting drink.

Things to consider:

Be sure to contact the company or bar running the class beforehand so you are aware if they have any rules that need to be followed. If you plan on hiring a private bartender, then arrange with them beforehand if you need to provide the liquor and bitters so you're not left empty handed when it's party time.

Average Cost: $50-$100 per person

10. Magic Shows

Magic performances are some of the best ideas to captivate any party attendees. They are perfect for any age range, too. Host a puppet show or have someone get cut in half on stage - the possibilities are endless! Magic shows do not require ample space or heavy setups so think about this when you are researching for magicians to hire.

Things to consider:

Take into consideration whether this aligns with the atmosphere you wish to establish at your event. If your goal is to have a lively, energetic moment that will get people on their feet and dancing, this may not be the best entertainment choice for you.

Average Cost: $420 per show

11. Body and Face Painting

Body and face painting is a special form of entertainment for any type of party and can leave you feeling empowered and bold. You can let your guests paint each other to encourage interaction. Or, hire professional face painters and let attendees choose a theme. Day of the Dead, party anyone?!

Things to consider:

Consider if you have the space for these painters to set up. Then also be thinking about whether this is in line with the mood you intend to set at your event.

Average Cost: $75-$100 per hour

12. Tarot Card Reader

If you're looking for a unique experience, consider hiring a tarot card reader. Each guest can have their own individual reading, and it's a great way to get people talking and interacting. To avoid long lines, consider setting up a sign-up sheet in the tarot area.

Things to consider:

This can be fun for smaller events or parties, but you would need multiple card readers for larger groups, which can start to get more costly. You could also have a tarot teacher come in and teach guests how to read the cards and then let guests read each others’.

Average Cost: $50-$75 per hour

13. Acoustic Guitarist

Acoustic guitar music can complement any type of event or party. Whether you're looking for soft music in the background while guests arrive, or a jazzy ambiance for a cocktail party, a professional guitarist can adapt to the environment and cover your favorite tunes.

Things to consider:

When hiring a Guitarist, make sure that you know their skill level and be sure that it matches the ambiance and vibe of the event you want to create. Paying a little extra for someone who is that much better at guitar is worth it. If you are having trouble finding the perfect musician for your event, contact a booking agency like Moontower Entertainment that can ensure that your live music meets all your party expectations.

Average Cost: $200+ per hour

14. Graffiti Artist

Bring a graffiti artist to do a mural and/or have guests participate in a collective graffiti mural. This is perfect for corporate parties or grand openings. A graffiti mural will appeal to many of the young members on your team.

Things to consider:

This kind of entertainment is very specific to the type of event you are planning. It could just be the unveiling of the mural or painting or a live demonstration of graffiti. Either way, this form of entertainment is better used for corporate events or art events.

Average Cost: $10-$20 per sq. ft.

15. Bartender

Hiring a bartender is a great idea for parties larger than 15-20 people. Not only do they make sure guests have a steady flow of drinks, but a skilled bartender can provide an entertaining and interactive experience. This also takes a lot of pressure off of you as the party host and allows you to actually mingle with your guests. Hiring a professional, high-quality bartender service is a cost-effective way to relieve yourself of multiple hosting duties.

Things to consider:

You can almost never go wrong with having someone serve alcohol at your next event. It might be a little pricey but it’s well worth the money if you’re looking to really be able to relax at your event.

Average Cost: $20-$300 per hour depending on the bartender

16. Bounce House

Why should kids have all the fun? A bounce house is a classic way to keep guests active and entertained for hours on end, no matter what their ages are. Bouncy castles and trendy white moon bounces are popular options for weddings. Who wouldn't want to have a couple of drinks then go jump around and smash into your friends?!

Things to consider:

Remember that having a bounce house at your next party will be a hit no matter what the age group, but it's important to consider if you have the proper space to house something that large in your yard or in whatever space you are using.

Average Cost: $125-$285 per day

17. Psychic

Psychics offer a one-of-a-kind experience that all guests will love. They can provide individual or group sessions if there's a large crowd. Guests could receive palm readings, handwriting analysis or clairvoyant insights. This is great for smaller groups looking for something unique to do together.

Things to consider:

Think about whether this is in line with the mood you intend to set at your event. This activity is definitely better for smaller-sized parties and groups to create the right vibe.

Average Cost: $30-$175 per hour

18. Harpist

Looking to add a splash of class into your event? Harp music adds an enchanting and unique touch to any party. Surprise your guests with a harpist at your next event, and they'll be talking about it for years after. Harpists can even play renditions of the latest pop songs so you can feel more at home with music you know and love.

Things to consider:

Think about how you want people at your party to feel. Do you want to put on a more upscale event or are you looking to get down on the dance floor? If the answer is upscale and classy, then this might be the perfect entertainment option for you.

Average Cost: $300-$400

19. Circus Show

No, we are not talking about tigers jumping through hoops of fire, unless, of course, your budget (and permitting) allows. Circus shows can provide memorable twists of excitement to your event. You can even choose to make it interactive and have teams perform a wide variety of circus performance options such as freefall trust exercises, hula hooping activities, or juggling shows. With safety measures in place, you could also let willing attendees try different performance styles.

Things to consider:

Consider the space you have available and who your audience would be. If you are planning a children's birthday party then this might be the perfect option for you. However, if you are planning something for people a little older, then it might not be the case, unless you are able to get that tiger…

Average Cost: $300-$400 per hour

20. Balloon Twister

Balloon creations are not just for kids' parties, although they are great for them. A talented balloon artist can create props for a photo booth or dance floor at a corporate event OR favors for a children's birthday party. The possibilities are endless. You could even request balloon decorations. Their skills will have guests of all age groups in amazement if you're looking for a way to make your event more fun and friendly.

Things to consider:

A balloon twister is great for a children's party, but if you are planning something for adults, then you might want to incorporate this activity with multiple others to keep your guests entertained and engaged.

Average Cost: $125-$175 per hour

21. Temporary Tattoo or Henna Artist

Temporary tattoos & Henna are a fun way to break the ice between guests and show off personal style, plus you don't have to break the budget. They're perfect for summer time grill outs, outdoor music events, or even a wedding after party! Temporary tattoos can vary between airbrush, crystal application or flash tattoos, so ask the artist if they have a preferred specialty. And henna is a lifelong classic that everyone is sure to enjoy.

Things to consider:

Consider the atmosphere you aim to establish at your event and your audience's demographics. These two factors are crucial in effectively arranging the entertainment for your upcoming celebration.

Average Cost: $75-$100 per hour

22. Accordionist

If you’re planning a party with a European vibe, an Accordionist can liven the mood of a party and get guests excited about a themed-event. Perhaps a pizza-making party with a live accordion soundtrack or a french cheese and wine-tasting event with an accordion player entertaining your guests while they dine. Enhance your themed-event with the right live music.

Things to consider:

If you are looking to add a jolly vibe to your party or event then you can't go wrong with an Accordionist. If you are hosting the party make sure you know if there are any noise restrictions in your area, particularly if you have neighbors. It couldn't hurt to tell them you are having a party and it could get a little loud.

Average Cost: $100-$250 per hour

23. Mariachi Band

Mariachis are a fun and festive way to celebrate if you want to really put on a fiesta, especially deep in the heart of Texas. Around the area there are so many mariachi groups to choose from, if you find yourself having trouble looking for one or just want to make sure you get the best band, a booking agency like Moontower Entertainment can help you secure the right one for your party.

Things to consider:

Consider the size of the mariachi band you want to hire, and ask questions like if they will need a stage, will they need sound equipment and would they set it up if the equipment was provided. Asking these questions during the research and booking process can save you a lot of time when it comes to actually running the party.

Average Cost: $300+ (price varies and increases as the group size increases)

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are plenty of affordable party entertainment ideas that you can book to make your event unforgettable. From tarot card readers to bartenders, there's something for every party theme and crowd. Remember, booking entertainment doesn't have to break the bank - all of these options can be done cheaply if you really wanted to. With these party entertainment ideas, your guests are sure to have a great time, and you can rest easy knowing that you've provided them with a memorable experience.