How much does a clown cost?
Various factors contribute to the price of hiring a clown for a party. As professional entertainers, many clowns offer detailed and specific price lists for the various services they provide, such as clowning, magic, face-painting, balloon art, characters, games, singing, juggling, unicycling, temporary tattooing and more. The ultimate price will depend on what you’d like the clown to do, where he or she will perform, and how many people will be in the audience.
Consultation
Before hiring a clown, request a free phone or in-person consultation to discuss exactly what you want and how much it will cost.
Contract
Be sure to sign a contract with the performer so that both sides know exactly what services will be provided. Also inquire about the performer’s cancellation policy. Many clowns request a deposit upfront before the date of the event.
Flat, package or hourly
Some clowns charge by the hour for their services, while others charge a flat rate. Many offer package deals with multiple services included. For example, Lee Loo the Clown of Davenport, Florida, charges a base price of $150 for one hour and 15 kids maximum, which can include any combination of face painting, temporary glitter tattoos, funny games, a magic show and circus skills tutorial. For two hours and a maximum of 25 kids, she charges $200.
Number of party guests
Some clowns charge extra for the number of partygoers over a standard limit. Others specify the amount of time they recommend based on the number of partygoers.
Travel fees
Many performers charge extra for gas, mileage and tolls outside of a certain radius for their travel to and from an event.
Peak times
Some clowns charge an extra fee for times when clowning in is particular demand, such as weekends or holidays. Alternatively, many offer discounts for nonpeak times. Some clowns also offer discounted hourly rates beyond an hour or two.
Tipping
It is recommended that you tip clowns about $20, especially if the performer works for an agency with multiple performers.
Cost-saving strategies
When negotiating for multiple services, inquire about all-inclusive package deals. Try to hire a performer who works within the area where the event will be held so as not to incur travel costs. If possible, avoid weekends, which is when demand and pricing for clowns are at their highest.
