Planning a kids' birthday party in Portugal: an expat guide

Children's birthday parties in Portugal are usually short, held on a weekend afternoon, and parents of younger children tend to stay. If you have just moved here, those three things are the ones most likely to catch you out. Here is how it normally works, and what to sort out first.

When parties happen

Saturday or Sunday afternoon, typically starting between three and four. Weekday parties are rare because Portuguese school days run late and many children stay for after-school activities.

Two to three hours is the usual length. For children under three, closer to two.

One thing that surprises many newcomers: for younger children, parents often stay for the whole party rather than dropping off. Plan for adult numbers roughly matching child numbers, and for adult food and drink.

Where people hold them

• At home. The most common option for small groups and younger children.
• Salão de festas. A rented party room, often with an entertainer included. Standard for larger groups from around age four upwards.
• Outdoors. Parks and gardens work well from May to October. In Porto, plan a backup for rain even in summer.
• At a restaurant. Common for adult birthdays, less so for children.

What you will need

The list is much the same as anywhere, with one local note: paper tableware is the norm rather than the exception, and nobody thinks less of you for it.

• Tableware in a single theme: plates, napkins, cups and straws
• A balloon setup in one corner, which is where the photos happen
• A cake topper. Small item, large effect on the cake photo
• Party bags for the guests, usually handed out as they leave

A timeline that works

When	What to do
4 to 6 weeks before	Book the venue or entertainer, agree the guest list
3 weeks before	Send invitations, order decorations
1 week before	Order the cake, confirm numbers
Day before	Set up decorations, fill foil balloons
On the day	Collect latex helium balloons, lay the table

Invitations usually go out through the class parents' WhatsApp group, which is the fastest way to reach everyone and the one most parents expect.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a children's birthday party last in Portugal?

Two to three hours, usually on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon starting between three and four. For children under three, closer to two hours.

Do parents stay at children's parties in Portugal?

For younger children, yes, parents commonly stay for the whole party. Plan for adult numbers roughly matching child numbers.

Where can I buy party decorations in Porto?

At our store in Porto, with English-speaking service, or online with delivery across Portugal in 24 to 48 hours.

How do invitations usually work?

Most invitations go out through the class parents' WhatsApp group, which is what other parents will expect.

How far in advance should I plan?

Four to six weeks for a venue or entertainer, three weeks for decorations, one week for the cake.