How to word a drop-off birthday party invitation (with examples)

The four lines every drop-off invite needs

Parents decide in seconds whether they can make your party work. Answer their questions before they ask them:

1. Drop-off and pickup as two separate times. "Drop-off 2:00, pickup 4:00" reads more clearly than "2:00-4:00", which some parents read as "come any time".
2. That it's a drop-off party, said warmly. "Drop-off party" on its own can feel curt; one friendly sentence fixes that.
3. A way to stay. Some kids aren't ready, and some have allergies or medical needs. Say that grown-ups who'd like to stay are welcome.
4. What you need back: an RSVP date, a pickup phone number and any allergies.

Drop-off invitation wording examples

Short and friendly

Maya is turning 7! Join us for a drop-off party at our house. Drop-off 2:00, pickup 4:00. Please RSVP by May 3 with a pickup phone number and any allergies.

It's a drop-off party! Drop-off at 10:30, pickup at 12:30 sharp. We'll have pizza, cake and a lot of glitter.

With a gentle reason

Our place is cozy, so this one's a drop-off party. Drop-off 3:00, pickup 5:00. If your child would like you nearby the first time, just let us know. You're always welcome.

The trampoline park has room for the kids only, so it's drop-off: please be back at 6:00 for pickup at the front desk.

Drop off or stay, your choice

Drop off or stay for a coffee, whatever works for you! Party 2:00-4:00, pickup by 4:00.

Grown-ups are welcome to stay, and just as welcome to enjoy two quiet hours. Pickup at 4:00.

First drop-off party (ages 5-6)

This is Leo's first drop-off party, and maybe your child's too! Feel free to stay for the first few minutes while everyone settles in. Pickup at 11:30.

The fine print: siblings, gifts and pickup

These lines stop the most common day-of surprises. Pick the ones that fit:

• Siblings: "We're keeping this one to the invited kids, thank you for understanding." or "Siblings are welcome, just let us know how many."
• Pickup person: "If someone else is picking up, please tell us their name when you RSVP."
• Allergies: "Please tell us about any allergies or foods to avoid." More on that in our allergy-friendly party guide.
• Gifts: say nothing, or use one of the no-gifts wording ideas.
• What to wear: "Socks required for the bounce house" or "Clothes that can get messy."

What age is right for drop-off?

There's no official age. Many families start dropping off somewhere around five to seven, once kids can use the bathroom on their own and speak up when they need something. Under that, write the invite for parents to stay. The full etiquette, for hosts and for parents dropping off, is in our drop-off party etiquette guide.

Frequently asked questions