How much does a masquerade party cost? A 40-guest example (2026)
For example, a masked cocktail party for 40 guests typically costs about $1,280 all-in ($32 per guest), including Extra buffer.
That total is about $0 for the space, $480 for the cocktail apps, $400 for the drinks, $140 for the decor / lighting, $80 for the spare masks, $60 for the invitations, and $120 for Extra buffer.
Extra buffer is spare money on top if something runs over. It is already inside that $1,280. This example is a masked cocktail party. It is not a seated dinner party, and it is not a wedding reception.
The example in one table
This is one mid-range example for the United States. Shares are rounded; the dollars are the source of truth. Source: Project ROI Calc Standard estimate, United States, 2026.
| Line | Dollars | Share of all-in |
|---|---|---|
| Space | $0 | 0% |
| Cocktail apps | $480 | 38% |
| Drinks | $400 | 31% |
| Decor / lighting | $140 | 11% |
| Spare masks | $80 | 6% |
| Invitations | $60 | 5% |
| Extra buffer | $120 | 9% |
| All-in | $1,280 | 100% |
Masquerade party cost calculator
Walkthrough
Space — $0
This example leaves Space at $0. Change it on the calculator if you will spend here.
Cocktail apps — $480
Cocktail apps is $480 in this example. Change it on the calculator if your quote is different.
Drinks — $400
Drinks is $400 in this example. Change it on the calculator if your quote is different.
Decor / lighting — $140
Decor / lighting is $140 in this example. Change it on the calculator if your quote is different.
Spare masks — $80
Spare masks is $80 in this example. Change it on the calculator if your quote is different.
Invitations — $60
Invitations is $60 in this example. Change it on the calculator if your quote is different.
Extra buffer — $120
Extra buffer ($120) is spare money on top if something runs over.
All-in vs per guest
People quote both. All-in ($1,280) is money to have on hand for a masked cocktail party. Per guest ($32) is for comparing catering menus or grocery lists. This page does not add a third “average.”
What would change your number
- A different guest count
- A nicer or simpler cocktail apps
- A quote you already have from a vendor
Change those amounts on the calculator — do not add a mental extra percent on top of Extra buffer.
Not in this number
- Guest gifts and the host's outfit
- Travel
- Sales tax if a vendor puts it on the invoice
How to use the calculator
- Enter how many guests you are hosting. This example starts at 40.
- Open a cost row and tap a starting-price button, or type the quote you already have.
- Tap Calculate. The all-in and per-guest figures update together.
Masquerade party cost calculator
Frequently asked questions
How much does a 40-guest masquerade party cost?
This example is $1,280 all-in for 40 guests ($32 per guest), including Extra buffer. Extra buffer is spare money on top if something runs over. That is a masked cocktail party.
What is included in this $1,280?
Every line in the table, plus Extra buffer. Items listed under “Not in this number” are left out on purpose.
Do I have to keep Extra buffer?
No. Extra buffer is spare money on top if something runs over. You can lower it or zero it on the calculator. Do not add a mental extra percent on top of it.
What if I invite more guests?
Raise the guest count on the calculator. Food and per-person lines usually move with the list. The $1,280 figure here stays this example.
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