Wilmington, DE Party Planning and Celebrations Guide

After a decade in event planning, I've learned a few things:

delegate, delegate, delegate
always have a rain plan
you can never have too much ice
some people think planning parties is a piece of cake, while others would rather do anything else.

For newbie party hosts, event planning can feel like trying to keep 500 plates spinning, at different speeds, while simultaneously learning how to make a plate. Depending on who you ask, it can be thrilling or terrifying.

We're here to help! From cakes to cleanup, decor to delectable bites, we’ve rounded up the essential ingredients to pull off party perfection!

Sponsored by Natural Nest Play Cafe

^{Photo courtesy of Natural Nest Play Cafe}

Throwing the perfect birthday party shouldn't feel like a chore.

With Natural Nest Play Cafe, it isn't. They offer fully managed birthday experiences that allow you to bypass the planning, the setup, and the cleanup. Just bring your birthday star and their guests, and get ready for a day filled with fun, laughter, and adventure — all in their eco-friendly play space.

Experience the ease of a birthday where everything's taken care of, because you deserve it too.

Bring your party animals to the Brandywine Zoo for a wild birthday!

Party length: 2 hours, 30 minutes prior to set up, from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm
25 guests
Includes: party paper goods, 2 large cheese pizzas & a drink station
Pricing: Members: $375 | Non-members: $435

Nail your next party with top-notch spa services from JAMS CLUB KIDS SPA.

Party length: 2 hours, up to 4 - 12 guests
Includes: party host, spa robes and headbands (for use during the party), pink carpet entrance, music and dance party, a photo wall, and a souvenir cup.
Pricing: $330 - $625

A Jurassic Fun Land bash is always a dino-mite time!

Party length: 2 hours of play, 10 kids (10 and under)
Includes: a large VIP private room, table covers, 10 socks, complete setup and coordination of the event, cleanup
Food: includes drinks and one Large double cut cheese pizza ( $15.99/additional pizza) and paper, napkins, cups, and flatware
Pricing: $395

Strengthen your party-hosting skills with a KidStrong party!

Natural Nest Play Cafes strive to provide young kids a space to socialize, engage in inspiration-inspired play, and feel safe.

Party length: 2 hours and 30 minutes before or after the party, 10 - 14 kids
Includes: private access to the play area and cafe.
Pricing: $375 - $895

Other Venues

Animals: Ashland Nature Center • Brandywine Zoo • Carousel Park Equestrian Center • Cozy Quarters Farm • DuPont Environmental Education Center • Wellspring Farm

Arcade and Bowling: Bowlero • Chuck E. Cheese • Pleasant Hill Lanes • Wilmington Home Amusements • Wilma's

Athletic Venues: American Karate Studios • Delaware Swim School • Hockessin Athletic Club • Patriot Ice Center • Perseverance Martial Arts (Bear) • Radiance Dance Studio • Vince's Sports Center

Crafts: Cabernet Candles •Delaware Arts Conservatory Michaels • The NCC Art Studio

Indoor Spaces: The Catch • Chancery Market • The Dahlia • DECO • The Venue

Park Pavilions: Alapocas State Park • Bellevue State Park

^{Maica | Canva}

Sweeten your plans with treats from Delaware's longest-running bakery.

Bite-size delights with a big flavor!

More Bites

Caterers:

Desserts: Cake Sisters • CC+C Cookie Factory • Cupcake Sisters • Flamingo Lady Cookies • Linden Hill Cookie Company • Moon Child Sweets • Stud Muffin Bakery • Sugabaker Custom Cakes • Sweet Lucy's • Sweet Treats by Kara LLC • The Sweet Beaker • Three Little Chefs