How Much Does a Movie Theater Birthday Party Cost?


Written by:  Howmuchisit.org Staff

A movie theater birthday party can provide an experience that cannot be had with other parties.  Not only will the children receive drinks and snacks, but the birthday boy or girl will get to pick whatever movie he or she wants and the group will be given a theater all to themselves.

Capitol movie theatre by blondinrikard, on Flickr
Capitol movie theatre” (CC BY 2.0) by  blondinrikard

How much does a movie theater birthday party cost?

The cost of renting out a movie theater for a birthday party is going to depend on the movie theater chain, the time of the year, the day, and the number of people who will be attending the party.  On average, renting out a movie theater for a birthday is going to range anywhere from $350 to as much as $550 per hour for about 20 people.  For every person after 20, it will cost about $5 to $12 per additional person.  This is the price for a private screening.

However, if you do not want a private screening, simple birthday parties will range anywhere from $8 to $13 per person.  This will include the movie of your choice as well as the movie snacks and drinks, but it will not get you a theater by yourselves.

Some theaters may have an outside party room that allows access to the movie theater.  This sort of package would cost around $50 to $150 for the room rental and an additional $7 to $12 per person for the admission ticket and snacks.

For example, Cinemark offers rates for 20 people that range anywhere from $300 to $500 for a private screening.

Regal Cinemas, another popular movie theater chain, said it could cost anywhere from $15 to more than $35 per child, depending on the package chosen.  These prices wouldn’t include a private screening, but a public viewing, along with birthday inclusions such as snacks, and in some cases, bowling.

Carmel Cinema, located in New York, charges $225 for parties of 12.  For every additional child, the costs will go up to $12 per person.

Movie theater birthday party overview

The average movie theater is going to include at least one hour of time in a party room, a movie snack pack that includes popcorn and candy, a drink, and movie of your choice.  Payments will have to be made at least three days ahead of time reserve the screening.

Just like a regular movie screening, parties can either be private or with the public.  During a private screening, the party will have the room to themselves, being able to watch any movie that is currently being shown.  A public viewing will be no different than the average movie experience.  The only difference will be the party package that usually includes the drinks and snacks.

Most movie theaters will have one or two attendants that will work with your group.  These attendants will aid you with the party room, get all the snacks and drinks for the kids, and clean up when the party is over.

What are the extra costs?

As mentioned above, most movie theaters will have a set price for a group of people.  When you go over this allotted amount, they will charge an additional fee for every person.  This fee will range from $5 to $12 per person, on average.

Any damage that occurs during the party will be your responsibility.

3D movies can be an additional charge.

Cake and desserts may be brought to the party at your expense, as well as decorations and party favors.

Some theaters have an additional party room that can be rented for an extra fee; these fees usually range anywhere from $30 to $60 per hour.

Some theaters may not include the popcorn or drinks.

If you have an attendant who helps you run the party, you may want to consider giving that person a tip.

Tips to know:

Some time slots will not be open for a party.  Be sure to talk with your local movie theater to see what days and times are open.  The earlier you are able to book the party, the more likely you are going to be able to reserve the room you want.

Try to schedule your birthday party during a time that will not be as busy with the public.  This will make it easier to control the group of kids.

Adult supervision will always be required for children parties.

Most theaters will have a minimum amount of people required before they book a party.

How can I save money?

Talk with at least three to five theaters in your area.  Most of them are going to be more than happy to give you a quote over the phone or point you to their website that lists the prices.

Renting a room is going to be very expensive compared to just showing up at the theater.  If your party is going to be less than 20 children, you may want to attend the movie as if you would any other movie and then go back to your home to open presents and enjoy cake and ice cream.


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Average Reported Cost: $299

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Less Expensive $1 $1.5K $3K $5K $6.5K More Expensive $8k

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  1. Jimmy Petrie (HOUMA,  Louisiana) paid $299 and said:

    Rate $299 w/o party package (popcorn, drink and candy)
    Rate $369 w party package (popcorn, drink and candy)
    Rate $489 Tailgate Party/Video Presentations/Sports Event

    Was it worth it? Yes

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