Planning a birthday party should be fun, and most of the stress comes from doing everything at the last minute. This is the checklist we walk parents through at Catalillies Play Café, built from a lot of Williamsburg birthdays. Use it for a party anywhere, and if you want someone else to handle the setup and the cleanup, we would love to host.
6 to 8 weeks out: pick the date and the place
- Choose the date first. Weekend afternoons book fastest, so start here.
- Decide indoor or outdoor. A backyard or park party is a gamble in Williamsburg weather in any season. An indoor venue takes the forecast off your list.
- Set a guest count. Count the kids who will play, then the grown-ups and siblings. Most venues price by the number of playing kids and cap the total number of people in the room.
- Book and pay the deposit. A deposit holds your date. Ours is 25% of the package, and we are happy to reschedule with notice.
4 weeks out: invitations and theme
- Send invitations with an RSVP date about a week before the party.
- Pick a theme the birthday kid loves. Two colors are plenty to make the photos look pulled together.
- Order the cake. Cake and cupcakes from outside are always welcome at our parties.
1 to 2 weeks out: lock in the details
- Confirm your final headcount. If more kids RSVP yes than your package includes, add them now so nothing is a surprise on the day.
- Choose add-ons like goody bags, decorations or extra time.
- Sketch a simple plan for the party itself: play time, cake, presents, and a send-off.
The day of the party
- Arrive at your set-up time with the cake and anything personal you are bringing.
- Hand off the hosting. Let your party helper keep things moving so you can actually watch your kid have fun.
- Take a few photos, then put the phone down.
What a party at Catalillies includes
Every party at Catalillies Play Café is completely private. You get the whole place to yourselves, 30 minutes of set-up time before guests arrive, a dedicated party helper, and clean-up when it is over.
- 90-Minute Party: $300, with 10 playing children included.
- 2-Hour Party: $400, with 14 playing children included.
- 2-Hour VIP Party: $800, with 14 playing children included, plus custom decor, party favors and food.
Extra kids are $8 each on the first two packages and $12 each on VIP. The room holds up to 55 people in total, grown-ups included, and members save 15% on party packages. See the party packages and add-ons, then pick your date.
Frequently asked questions
How far ahead should I book a kids birthday party in Williamsburg?
Six to eight weeks is a good rule, and earlier for spring and holiday weekends. Weekend dates go first.
How many kids can come to a party at Catalillies?
Each package includes a set number of playing children, and you can add more. The room holds up to 55 people in total, including grown-ups and siblings.
Can we bring our own cake?
Yes. Cake and cupcakes are always welcome. For any other outside food, ask when you book and we will walk you through it.
Is the deposit refundable?
Deposits are non-refundable, but we are happy to reschedule your date with notice.