How far in advance should you send kids' birthday invitations?
Two to three weeks ahead is the sweet spot for most kids' parties. Here's when to go earlier, when later is fine, and how to set the RSVP date.
The short answer
Send invitations two to three weeks before the party, with an RSVP date about a week before. Earlier than a month and invites get forgotten; later than ten days and weekends are already booked.
| Party | Send invites | RSVP by |
|---|---|---|
| Home party, school-age kids | 2-3 weeks before | 1 week before |
| Venue with a headcount deadline | 3-4 weeks before | 2-3 days before the venue's deadline |
| First birthday (lots of adults, family travel) | 4-6 weeks before | 2 weeks before |
| Sleepover | 2-3 weeks before | 1 week before |
| Holiday season or summer | 3-4 weeks before | 10 days before |
| Small, last-minute get-together | 1 week before | 2-3 days before |
Do you need a save-the-date?
Rarely for kids' parties. The exception is family coming from out of town for a first birthday or a milestone like a sweet sixteen: a quick text six to eight weeks ahead, then the real invitation three or four weeks out.
Plan backward from the party date
- 6 weeks out: pick the date and book a venue if you're using one.
- 4 weeks out: decide the guest list and theme. How many kids to invite
- 3 weeks out: send invitations.
- 1 week out: RSVP date; nudge anyone who hasn't replied.
- 2-3 days out: final headcount to the venue, shopping, favors.
- The day before: reminder to guests with the time and address.
The party checklist fills in every date for you.
Running late? Here's the fix
Sending invites a week out is fine if you make replying effortless. Send them by message rather than paper, give an RSVP date three or four days out, and follow up personally. Short notice is also a good reason to keep the guest list small.
Frequently asked questions
How far in advance should you send kids' birthday invitations?
Two to three weeks before the party is the usual, with an RSVP date about a week before. Go three to four weeks for venues and busy seasons.
Is one week enough notice for a kids' birthday party?
It can work for a small party. Send invites by message, keep the RSVP window short and follow up personally.
How early should I send first birthday invitations?
Four to six weeks, because more adults and family travel are involved. A save-the-date helps if relatives are coming from far away.
When should the RSVP date be?
About a week before the party, or a few days before any venue headcount deadline, so you have time to follow up.