How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Magician for a Christmas Party?

So you’re thinking about adding some magic to your Christmas party this year, hiring a professional magician is a brilliant way to entertain your guests. One of the first things people usually want to know is: How much does it cost to hire a magician for a Christmas party?

In this blog, I’ll walk you through what you can expect when it comes to pricing, the factors that affect the cost, and what you’re actually paying for. Whether you’re planning a corporate Christmas event or a cosy family gathering, this guide will help you budget for some festive fun.

What Affects the Price?

The cost of hiring a magician for a Christmas party in the UK can vary depending on a few important factors. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Corporate or Private Event?

The type of event you’re hosting can have a big impact on the price. Corporate Christmas parties tend to be bigger and might require longer performances or multiple sets throughout the evening. Magicians may also customise their acts to fit a more formal or professional setting, which can increase the cost.

For smaller, private Christmas parties—like family get-togethers—the cost is usually lower as the performances are shorter and there are fewer guests to entertain.

2. How Long Do You Want the Performance?

The length of the performance also plays a role in the cost. Most magicians offer a range of options, from quick 30-minute sets to longer, two-hour sessions. If you’re booking a close-up magician to move around the room, entertaining small groups, they may be performing for a couple of hours, which will reflect in the price.

A shorter performance of around 30-45 minutes will typically cost less, while longer shows are naturally more expensive.

3. Type of Magic

Different types of magic come at different price points. Here are some of the most popular options:

Close-Up Magic: Perfect for mingling with guests during a drinks reception or dinner. It’s personal, interactive, and always a hit at Christmas parties.

  Stage Magic: Great for larger parties or corporate events where you want to put on a show. These performances can be more elaborate, sometimes with assistants or special effects, so they tend to cost a bit more.

Mentalism: If you’re after something really unique, mentalism (mind-reading or predicting outcomes) can be a fantastic choice. It’s intricate and engaging, which often means a higher price.

4. Location, Location, Location

Where your party is held can also affect the price. In major cities like London or Manchester, you may pay more due to higher demand. If your event is outside the magician’s usual area, you might also need to cover travel expenses, so it’s worth factoring that in.

What’s the Typical Cost?

To give you a ballpark figure, here are some typical prices for hiring a magician in the UK:

Small Private Party (up to 30 guests):

£250 - £400 for a 1-hour close-up magic performance.  

Medium-Sized Party (30-100 guests):

£400 - £800 for a 1-2 hour performance, either close-up magic or a stage show.

Corporate Events (100+ guests):

£800 - £1,500 or more, depending on the complexity of the show and the number of magicians needed.

Keep in mind, these are rough estimates. The actual price will depend on the magician’s experience, their reputation, and how busy they are, especially during the Christmas period.

What’s Included in the Price?

When you book a magician, you’re not just paying for their time at the event. Here’s a look at what’s typically included:

1. Personalised Performance

Most magicians can tailor their performance to fit your Christmas theme. This might include festive magic tricks, holiday themed humour, or even incorporating your company’s branding if it’s a corporate event.

2. Professionalism and Preparation

A professional magician will spend time preparing their act for your event. This could include rehearsing, packing up all the necessary equipment, and arriving early to ensure everything runs smoothly.

3. Equipment and Props

Some types of magic, especially stage performances, require specific equipment or props. These are usually included in the fee, but it’s always a good idea to double-check what’s covered when you’re booking.

Why You Should Book Early

Christmas is one of the busiest times of the year for magicians, and availability can be limited. Booking early means you’re more likely to secure your preferred performer. You might also avoid last-minute price increases, as some magicians charge a premium for late bookings. Plus, many offer early bird discounts if you lock in your date well ahead of time.

Questions to Ask Before Booking

To make sure you’re hiring the right magician for your Christmas party, here are a few important questions to ask:

• Have you performed at Christmas or corporate events before?

• What kind of magic do you specialise in (close-up, stage, mentalism)?

• Can you customise your performance for a Christmas theme?

• What do you need from the venue (stage, microphone, etc.)?

• What’s included in your fee?

• Do you offer any guarantees?

Asking these questions will help you feel confident that you’re booking the right entertainer for your event.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a magician for your Christmas party is a fantastic way to create unforgettable memories and keep your guests thoroughly entertained. Prices can vary, but understanding what affects the cost will help you make an informed decision and find the right magician for your event.

If you’re ready to add a bit of magic to your Christmas celebrations, get in touch for a personalised quote. Let’s make this Christmas truly magical!