Clowns vs. Character Entertainers: What’s Right for Your Kid’s Party?

When planning your child’s birthday party, one of the most exciting decisions is choosing the  entertainment. Many parents ask: 

Should we book a clown, a character entertainer, or both? 

The truth is — each option creates a different kind of magic. There’s no right or wrong choice, only  what’s right for your family. And the funny thing is, that answer can change year to year… even season to  season. 

A party that calls for the magic of Elsa one year might invite the wizarding world of Harry Potter the  next. 

At Clowns, we believe the best parties start with clarity — not pressure.  

To help take the guesswork out of it, here are a few questions to guide you as you plan.

 1.) What Are Your Kids Into — Right Now? 

Not kids in general. Your kids. 

Is everything Princess Ariel and mermaids? 

Do they truly believe they might become Batman one day? 

Do they light up the second Blippi comes on the screen? 

Is Cocomelon always playing in the background at home? 

Are they dancing to Gracie’s Corner, running like Bluey, or asking for a Roblox-themed party this year? 

This is where character entertainers really shine — bringing familiar worlds, songs, and  personalities to life in a way kids instantly recognize and connect with. 

If your child loves interactive games, laughter, and being the center of attention, clown  entertainment creates an experience that feels personal, joyful, and high-energy — without  pulling focus away from the birthday kid. 

For parties with a mix of ages and interests, clowns have a unique way of making everyone feel  included and involved. 

This is where character entertainers really shine — bringing familiar worlds and stories to life. When your guest list includes kids of different ages and energy levels, clowns can adapt in real  time to keep the fun flowing for everyone. 

2.) How Are We Entertaining the Parents? 

Are you hiring entertainment so kids are fully engaged while parents get time to relax and enjoy being  together? 

Or is the goal a fully immersive experience with photo moments happening every few minutes? Both are great — they just create different kinds of memories. Many families love entertainment that  keeps kids laughing and involved while parents get to actually enjoy the party they planned. That balance is a big part of a great party entertainment experience. 

3.) What’s the Theme — If There Is One?

Is this a Princess Ball? 

Is your playroom turning into Sesame Street for the afternoon? 

Is a Lilo and Stitch themed Luau taking place in your backyard? 

Or is the theme simply togetherness and fun? 

Some parties are built around a very specific vision, while others are about celebrating your child and  their friends in a way that feels relaxed, playful, and inclusive. 

Knowing the vibe you want helps entertainers tailor the experience to match your family — not force  your party into a box. 

A Final Thought on Working With Professionals 

Remember — when you’re working with a professional entertainment company, the vision for your  party should become clearer, not blurrier, as you go. 

The more prepared you are with what you want, the more professionals can help elevate it into something  even better than you imagined. A truly great company should feel like a collaboration, all working toward  one simple goal: 

Throwing your family the best party ever. 

The kind of party where the car ride home from guests is filled with kids saying, “Can I have that at my party?” 

Think of it this way: 

Your job is to know what kind of cake you want. 

Their job is to help decorate it. 

And when those two things come together, you don’t just throw a party — you create a memory.

Want to hear more from Katie? Join her newsletter.