What is the best time of the day for a daytime party?

Question

I want to do a housewarming party on may 21st (monday and holiday). I want to do an afternoon thing so it doesn't have to be a whole meal thing and so we have the evening to ourselves. What do you think is the best time for the invitation, it could be something early like 1h30 PM or as late as 5PM (like a "happy hour"), if you were invited to such a party, what time would you like it to be?

Answer 1

I'd say around 2...that way you don't have to make them lunch or have it catered but you can offer some snacks and some drinks for refreshments.

Answer 2

I've been to open houses at various times and enjoyed most all of them. I'm thinking that since you are having yours on a Monday and Tuesday will be a work day for most folks, the earlier the better. If you want a 4 hour party then I'd consider 1 - 5pm for the time period. That way, folks will get home in time for a light supper and to get their kids and themselves ready for the next day. Possilbe snacks might include:

1. Hot Artichoke Dip and chips
2. Hot Chili Cream Cheese Dip and chips
3. Cheese platter with crackers and grapes
4. Baguettes for slicing
5. A baked ham and hot sweet mustard to make sandwiches
6. Fresh Fruit platter
7. Condiments such as olives, pickles
8. Carrot and celery stix with dip
9. Cake, or cupcakes and brownies
10. Punch with a festive ice ring

Jenny's Punch:

1 can frozen strawberry margarita mix
1 can frozen orange juice
1 can frozen pineapple juice
2 bottles cold Ginger Ale
2 bottles cold Spring Water with lemon

If you want to add some vodka, then eliminate some of the soda. Float slices of lemons on top and drop in marachino cherries.

Answer 3

I always start daytime parties around 1 because by then people are hungry. It is cheaper to serve lunch then a full dinner. As a guest I like leaving with enough time to do something else in the evening. You may want to consider a noontime brunch. You can serve more variety.

Answer 4

This kinda depends on your friends and families, and their schedules...But with it being a Monday holiday, I think you should do it at either noon or 1 at the latest.That way, everyone still can sleep and relax a little, but still be home by 5 or 6 and everyone - including you! - can enjoy your evening.
I would keep the menu light - finger foods and easy things that keep people up and moving and socializing...

And congrats on your new place!!

Answer 5

1:30 is a good time. Have some light snacks so that people don't get hungry. That way, everyone will be ready to go home by 5 pm and you will have the evening to yourself.

Answer 6

I think the best time for a day-time party would have to be around...2:00-3:00. That way, it won't be too early, and it won't be too close to dinner/lunch. I think it's the perfect time to visit instead of think about food. And you'll have the evening to yourself! good luck mate!

Answer 7

i would say anytime after 12 and as late as 5