Their favorite.
Their birthday.

A greeting is often the first moment a child notices the character, so it helps to decide how you want the arrival to feel. Some parents prefer a gentle, personal hello where the child is introduced by name and given a moment to react. Others prefer a more theatrical entrance that sets a festive tone for the whole group. Discuss these ideas with the team, and ask whether the performer can match the energy of your child and guests. A shy child may enjoy a quieter welcome with one-to-one attention, while an outgoing child may like being part of a group introduction. Ask which activities suit your child, such as a vocabulary game, a dress-up moment or a simple photo pose. These are choices to talk through, not fixed parts of the visit.

An outdoor birthday gives the performer room to move, and the bright, open feel of a garden or park can suit a character who loves color and display. Think about shade, seating for guests and a clear spot where the birthday child can stand in the middle of the fun. Ask the performer which games work best outside and whether any props need a flat surface or a sheltered area. If you are planning an outdoor location, check the rules of that specific site yourself, including whether outside entertainment is permitted, and confirm this before you book. Ask about access, power needs and a backup plan if the weather changes.

An indoor party gives you more control over the room, lighting and noise, which can help a themed visit feel polished. A living room, a cleared dining area or a party room can all work if there is space for the child and guests to gather. Consider where the performer will stand, where the birthday child will sit to open presents, and how much floor space is needed for any movement games. Ask whether the performer prefers a particular layout and whether you need to clear furniture ahead of time. A smaller home setting may suit a few friends, while a larger room can hold a bigger group. Share the number of children and the room size so the team can advise on what fits.

A well-paced visit keeps the afternoon comfortable for everyone. Think about the order of the day: arrival, a welcome moment, a main activity, a break and a closing celebration. Ask the team how they like to structure a visit of at least one hour, and discuss whether you want a steady pace or a more relaxed rhythm. Give some thought to seating so younger guests can sit close and older children can see. Let the team know where to park, which entrance to use and who will greet them, so the handoff is smooth. Share any details about allergies, noise sensitivity or a child who may need a quiet corner, and ask which of these the team can accommodate.