There is an important birthday coming up, and you want to throw a party. Whether it is for your own birthday or a loved one's birthday, this checklist will help you keep track of all the things you need to do to plan a memorable birthday celebration. This checklist includes tasks for birthday parties for all ages, so feel free to add or remove any tasks you think necessary. Some tasks obviously apply to children's parties, so if planning for an adult, you can do away with them. You will have to start planning three or four weeks in advance, especially if you are sending invitations by mail. Otherwise, two to three weeks are enough to notify your guests and plan properly. Also plan for more time if the birthday falls on or around a major holiday, as people tend to book these days quickly. Since the biggest part of the party preparation work involves food and cooking, the biggest days will those closer to the date. If you decide to order a cake, go to your bakery at least a week before the date, otherwise they might not be able to fill your order. If this is a birthday party for children, don't forget to plan activities for the adults, too; if you are hiring an entertainer for the kids, do so at least three weeks in advance. Clowns and other entertainers for children are very busy, especially in the summer. We hope that this list will help you plan the perfect birthday party, and don't forget to have fun, even if you are planning somebody else's birthday party!