Frequently asked questions
Everything most families need to know before choosing a package and reserving a date.
Real NYCBC party
How do I book?
Choose your package and date on our online booking calendar. The deposit amount is shown at checkout. Your remaining balance is due before the entertainment begins. Cash is preferred; Zelle, Venmo and Cash App are also accepted. Business clients may pay by invoice using a credit or debit card.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking about one month ahead, especially for weekends. If a time is still available on the booking calendar, you can reserve it—even at shorter notice.
When should the entertainers arrive?
We recommend starting entertainment 30–60 minutes after your guests arrive. That gives everyone time to settle in before the organized activities begin.
How do all the activities fit into one hour?
Our entertainers use a flexible, proven flow. Individual activities such as balloon twisting, face painting, temporary tattoos and cotton candy typically come first, followed by group games, dancing and bubbles. The interactive magic show and crowning ceremony happen toward the end. The team adjusts the timing to the group in front of them.
What if I’m not sure how much time to book?
Book the extra time. More time gives us room for more detailed face painting, cooler balloon creations, additional games, a longer magic show and activities that adults can join too. We may already be booked after your party, so extending on the day is not guaranteed.
What areas do you serve?
We regularly serve Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Staten Island, Westchester, Nassau County and New Jersey. For all locations beyond what’s listed here, contact us before booking. Availability depends on the date, package and travel needs—we never want to miss out on a good party!
What ages do you entertain?
Our specialty is children ages 1–12, but face painting, balloon twisting and interactive entertainment can work for teens, adults, schools, corporate events and mixed-age celebrations too.
Do the entertainers dress like traditional clowns?
No. Our entertainers look friendly and professional in bright yellow branded NYC Birthday Clowns shirts. They do not wear clown makeup, wigs or gloves.
Will the entertainers arrive exactly at my selected time?
We always try to arrive early, and about 90% of the time we arrive on time or early. Because traffic and parking can be unpredictable, your selected time begins a 30-minute arrival window.
What’s the difference between the packages?
The Ultimate Party includes two entertainers and the complete activity lineup. Choose its length mainly by child count. Face painting, balloon twisting or both costs $150 per hour, per entertainer. You can hire multiple entertainers for larger events.
Do you travel to the party?
Yes. We come to homes, parks, restaurants, catering halls, schools, offices and event venues. Any applicable travel fee is based on the event location. Travel fees are listed on the Book Now page and are not added by the scheduler.
What are the travel fees?
For the Ultimate Party Package, there is no travel fee for Queens or Brooklyn. The fee is $19 for Manhattan or the Bronx, $35 for Westchester, Nassau County or Staten Island, and $50 for New Jersey. Face Painting & Balloon Twisting bookings with two or more entertainers use the same fees. With one entertainer, there is no travel fee when the venue is within 10 minutes of an MTA subway station; venues farther than 10 minutes carry a $50 travel fee. For any other location, contact us before booking—we never want to miss out on a good party!
How early or late can an event take place?
Events can normally start as early as 9:00 a.m. and end by 11:00 p.m. Contact us if your event falls outside that window.
Do you accommodate religious celebrations?
Absolutely. Tell us about any traditions, timing or special requests. Our team has experience with Communions, Christenings, Upsherin, Mundan and many other celebrations.
How long does setup take?
Setup is quick. Our supplies arrive organized in preset bins, and the entertainers can usually be ready in under five minutes.
What should I provide?
For face painting, please have one medium-sized table and two chairs ready. If your package includes cotton candy, we also need a working electrical outlet or generator.
How much space do you need?
We have entertained everywhere from studio apartments to large auditoriums. We adapt the party flow to the space available and do our best to keep every child involved.
Can I remove activities for a discount?
You may skip or adjust activities, but package pricing is based on the entertainers’ time at your event, so the price stays the same.
When is the final balance due?
The remaining balance is due on the day of the event, before entertainment begins.
How much should I tip?
Gratuities are appreciated but not included in package prices. Recommended amounts appear on the front of your contract, with the agreement terms on the back.
Are you insured and bonded?
Yes. NYC Birthday Clowns is fully insured and bonded.
Do you offer character appearances?
We do not offer character appearances right now, but you’re welcome to contact us later in case that changes.
Do you use animals in the magic show?
No. We love animals and never use live animals in our performances. Our interactive magic is designed around the children’s participation instead.
Ready to hand off the party?
See real-time availability, choose your package and reserve your date online.