All party checklists

Pick the kind of party. Each checklist asks for the date and the number of guests, then shows when to do each task and how much to buy.

Children's birthday parties

Six weeks of tasks with real dates, plus plates, cups and party bags counted for your guest list.

A short party built around nap time, with most guests being adults and a few babies on the floor.

Bedding, dinner, a film, lights out and breakfast for a handful of children staying the night.

Grill, fuel, food for the grill, shade and seats for an afternoon in the garden.

Eight weeks of tasks for an open house or a set-time party, from invitations to the memory table.

For the friend or relative hosting: guest list from the parents, invitations, games, prizes and favours.

How many mains, sides and desserts to ask for, and what the host still has to provide.

A shopping list for any party: plates, cups, napkins, cutlery and serving kit counted from one number.

Decorations, a costume contest, themed food and treat bags for a kids, adult or mixed crowd.

Three weeks from guest list to leftovers, with the Tuesday and Wednesday jobs spelled out.

Five weeks from booking the delivery slot to the pudding, with crackers and settings counted.

A long evening that peaks at midnight: food in waves, a toast for everyone and a way home.