Laser Tag Birthday Parties -- What to Expect

So you are interested in having a birthday party for you son or daughter?

There are over 650 laser tag (or lazer tag) facilities and operators in the United States and Canada. Almost every one of them has a birthday party package. Unfortunately, each facility will offer a slightly different package. It's impossible to generalize about birthday party packages.

Packages will always include laser tag play, but they may also include food and beverages, tokens for an arcade, a party table or area, a dedicated server, other attractions and/or prizes or gifts.

Before booking your party, figure out what you and your child want out of the package. Then decide which laser tag facility is right for you.

Here are a few things to consider when booking your package:

• Most laser tag facilities have an age range for participants. This is for your child's safety and well-being. Laser tag facilities can be dark, loud, confusing places. Even if your son or daughter is ready, the other party guests may not be. A birthday party can be ruined by a child who is hysterical or upset. The Laser Tag Guy recommends laser tag for players who are at least 7 years old.
• If the facility offers a food package, take advantage. You're probably getting their best rate on this food inclusive package. It will almost always guarantee you get the best service.
• Don't visit the laser tag facility for the first time the day of the party. Find out if it meets your standards by visiting (preferably with your family).
• If the facility has a large arcade and you birthday is for a 7-12 year-old, get as many tokens as you can. It will be easier to get the tokens up front (the kids will want them), than to scramble afterwards. If you have a budget, make certain you let all the guests know in advance that "these are all the tokens you may have."
• A typical laser tag birthday party will last at least two hours at the facility if you include food and tokens.
• The average birthday party is 10-15 guests. Laser tag is just a lot more fun to play with your friends.
• Mom and Dad should join in the fun! Laser tag is a lot of fun for a wide variety of ages. Since the arena is controlled, there is limited advantage for someone taller or older. Make it a great party and play with your birthday boy or girl.

Questions to ask of the laser tag or lazer tag operator:

Do you have referees in every game?

The Laser Tag Guy recommends you be concerned with any facility that does not have a referee in every game the whole game. This is a major safety concern.

Will my party play by themselves?

In a small arena (3000 square feet or less), this can be a great benefit. However, in a larger arena you don't really want the room all to yourself unless you have a huge party (30 guests or more).

How will my party run?

In a popular, successful laser tag facility, they will have a plan for exactly what your party will do when. In my experience, kids do best in a very structured party. There is less chance to get bored or get into trouble. Some parents want a very free-flowing party, but this doesn't usually work best.

If the facility has a plan, follow their plan. They have run a lot more parties than you have, in all likelihood. If they don't have a plan, ask exactly how things will run or if you can have a plan. You may end up with a party that lasts a lot longer than you anticipated or is much more chaotic.

Will I be able to add guests to the party?

The very best laser tag facilities are very busy, especially at peak party times. Make sure you book a spot for all your guests. Find out if you'll be able to add guests at a later date if you go over.

These are just some common sense ideas to consider when planning a laser tag birthday party at your local arena.

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