Birthday Party Supplies: Hats, Balloons and Banners

What to choose for each part of the party

Hats for a mixed group

When kids and adults share the table, standard cones look consistent in group photos and sit on adult heads for a quick picture. The rainbow set has Happy Birthday foil lettering; the pastel set has pom poms and soft prints. For a birthday child who should stand out, the mini 11-packs include a gold and a silver crown. Browse all party hats and crowns, or use the party hat count guide to set quantities.

Balloons: one statement or a garland?

A single large foil balloon is the fastest decoration in the shop: fill it with a straw or pump, tie on the ribbon and tape it behind the cake table. For a Spanish-language party, the Feliz Cumpleaños gift box keeps the message in one piece. If you want a wall of color, plan a garland with latex balloons and the strip kit. Our foil vs latex guide explains float times, since helium latex balloons should be filled on the day.

Birthday party planning checklist

• Count guests and split kids and adults; plan one hat each plus a couple of spares.
• Run the numbers for hats, balloons and banner length in the party supply calculator.
• Choose one balloon focal point and decide on air or helium; helium and pumps aren't included.
• Measure the wall or table where the banner will hang.
• Order early enough to allow for processing and shipping time.
• A few days ahead: assemble paper hats, thread banners and test your hanging method.
• The day before: fill air balloons and wrap gifts with ribbon.
• On the day: fill any helium balloons and put hats out at cake time.
• Keep uninflated balloons, pom poms and glue dots away from small children.

For tableware counts and a full two-week timeline, follow the birthday party supplies checklist. Hanging on painted walls? See how to hang banners without damaging walls. Planning for little ones specifically? Our kids' birthday page focuses on toddler-friendly hats and safety.