Venue, activity and how much you want handled for you. A practical guide to planning a children's birthday party in Lagos.

A good children's birthday party in Lagos comes down to three decisions: where, what activity, and how much of it you want handled for you.

Venue first. If you want your own space decorated exactly as you imagine it, look at venues that allow full customisation and bring-your-own food, such as Alali Studio in Victoria Island or 788 On The Sea in Lekki, both with waterfront or private-hire settings. If you would rather skip the planning entirely, hotel venues like Radisson Blu or Federal Palace come with catering built into the package, so the only job left is choosing a theme.

Activity second. Canvas painting suits almost any age group and requires no experience. For older children, pottery, tie dye and jewellery making tend to hold attention longer and give a more personal keepsake to take home. Younger children respond well to tote bag painting or hand casting, both simple enough to finish inside a shorter attention span.

Or skip venues altogether. KidzPaint also comes to you, anywhere in Lagos, with a fully equipped art instructor, all supplies set up before guests arrive, and face painting, balloon art and name bracelets included at no extra cost. You choose the theme, we handle the rest.

Whichever route you take, book on a weekday if you can. Weekend slots at our most popular venues go first, particularly for parties of ten or more.