It’s one of those questions that seems simple until you actually have to answer it. You’re excited to plan a gender reveal party, but suddenly, the timing feels... tricky. Go too early, and you risk guessing. Wait too long, and the moment might feel like old news.

If you’ve been Googling when do you do a gender reveal party and still feel a little lost, you’re not alone. Many parents want to get it just right, but with appointments, family expectations, and Pinterest-worthy pressure, it’s hard to know where to begin.

This guide is here to help you figure out the perfect time to celebrate, how to prepare, and fun, creative ways to make your reveal moment truly unforgettable.

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The Best Time To Have A Gender Reveal Party

What Week Can You Find Out The Baby’s Gender?

You can usually find out if you’re having a little boy or girl around 18 to 20 weeks during your ultrasound. That’s when your doctor gets a good peek and can give you a pretty accurate answer.

Some parents get super curious and go for a blood test as early as 10 weeks, but most people wait for the scan to be sure. If you're planning a big reveal, it’s worth waiting so there are no surprises... except the fun kind!

When Do Most People Host A Gender Reveal Party?

Most people throw their gender reveal party soon after the 20-week scan. That’s the sweet spot—it gives you just enough time to plan something cute without waiting too long.

It’s fun to do it over a weekend so family and friends can come celebrate. You’ll have everything ready, from pink-and-blue treats to that “pop or slice” moment everyone’s waiting for!

Should You Wait For Confirmed Ultrasound Results?

Waiting for confirmed results is a smart move. That way, you won’t end up cutting into a cake with the wrong color inside!

It also makes planning way easier. If you're wondering how to prepare a gender reveal party that’s stress-free and super special, knowing the baby's gender for sure keeps everything on track.

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How Does A Gender Reveal Party Work?

So, What Actually Happens At A Gender Reveal?

A gender reveal party is all about sharing the big surprise with your loved ones in a fun and creative way. Guests usually gather, play a few themed games, take guesses on “team boy” or “team girl,” and enjoy snacks and sweet treats.

The highlight? That big reveal moment—cutting a cake, popping a balloon, or opening a box filled with pink or blue. Everyone finds out together, and there’s lots of cheering, hugs, and happy tears. That’s how a gender reveal party works in the most exciting way!

Who’s In On The Secret Before The Big Reveal?

Someone’s got to be the keeper of the secret, right? Sometimes it’s the bakery making the mystery cake, a friend planning the reveal, or even a sibling who’s sworn to secrecy.

The parents might hand over a sealed envelope and say, “Don’t tell us!” And from there, the behind-the-scenes magic begins.

Can Mom And Dad Be Just As Surprised?

Totally possible—and honestly, it’s kind of adorable. Some parents love the idea of being just as shocked as everyone else when the color flies or the cake’s cut.

They give the gender info to someone else and keep their curiosity bottled up until the big reveal. It takes some willpower, but the surprise on their faces? Priceless.

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How To Prepare For A Gender Reveal Party

Step 1 – Choose A Theme That Screams “Us!”

The theme sets the whole vibe, so pick something that feels like you. Whether it's “He or She? Let’s Taco See!” or something soft and sweet like “Twinkle or Rocket?”—let your personality shine.

A fun theme also helps with everything else, like decorations, snacks, and even the reveal idea itself. Bonus: it makes your photos look extra adorable.

Step 2 – Make A Guest List That Feels Just Right

A gender reveal doesn’t need a huge crowd to feel big. Invite the people who make your heart happy—the ones who’ll cheer no matter what color pops out.

Once you’ve got your list, you can go fancy with printed invites or keep it simple with digital cards. Either way, make it cute, and make it you.

Step 3 – Pick A Place (Or Set The Scene Online!)

You’ve got options! A cozy backyard, a fave café, or even a decorated living room can make the perfect spot. What matters most is that you feel comfortable and excited there.

Going virtual? Totally doable. You can still dress up the space, send mini reveal kits, and stream the big moment live. Distance doesn’t have to dull the fun.

Step 4 – Lock In the Perfect Day and Time

Pick a date that gives you just enough time to plan without rushing. Most people go for a weekend—it’s easier for guests and gives you time to breathe.

Aim for a time when people are relaxed and ready for fun. Afternoon with snacks? Early evening with cupcakes? Whatever fits your style, go for it!

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How to Do a Gender Reveal Party Right

Big Reveal Ideas That Really Pop

This is the moment everyone’s waiting for. The big surprise. The oohs, the aahs, and maybe even a few happy tears.

Here are some adorable and fun ways to spill the secret:

• Cake Cutting: Slice into a simple cake and boom—pink or blue filling inside. Classic and sweet.
• Balloon Pop: Pop a big black balloon filled with confetti. It’s loud, fun, and full of color.
• Confetti or Powder Cannons: Perfect for outdoors and totally Instagrammable.
• Smoke Bombs: Add some drama with colored smoke in your backyard or a wide open space.
• Pinata Party: Let the kids (or grown-ups) smash it open and watch pink or blue candy fall out.
• Surprise Box: Open a box and watch pink or blue balloons float up into the sky.

Pick one that makes you smile and fits your space. Cute, simple, and unforgettable.

Keep It Fun And Keep It Safe

Let’s keep the party full of smiles, not surprises we don’t want. Safety doesn’t have to be boring—it just means choosing the fun stuff that won’t end in a mess or emergency.

Here are a few quick tips:

• Use safe materials like confetti, balloons, or cake.
• Skip anything fiery like fireworks or sparklers.
• Keep it outdoors if you’re using powder or confetti.
• Clean up easily with eco-friendly stuff.
• Check the weather if your party is outside.
• Think fun, think safe, and you’re good to go.

Let’s Play! Cute Games To Keep Everyone Smiling

Games are the best way to keep your guests laughing while waiting for the big reveal. They make everyone feel part of the moment—even if they guessed wrong!

Here are a few easy and cute ideas:

• Team Pink or Team Blue: Let guests wear their guess or vote on a board.
• Old Wives’ Tale Quiz: Answer fun myths and let guests guess the gender based on your cravings or bump shape.
• Name That Baby: Have guests suggest baby names. Some might be silly, some might surprise you.
• Baby Bingo or Trivia: Add some friendly competition with prizes.
• Guess the Due Date: It’s fun to look back later and see who nailed it.

Keep it light, keep it fun, and make it all about enjoying the moment together.

Eats And Sips For The Big Day

Let’s be real. Everyone shows up a little early when they know there’s good food. Start by deciding if you’re going for a full meal, finger foods, sweet treats, or just some fun drinks.

Now here’s where it gets fun. Match your menu to the theme. Think cookies shaped like mustaches or lips, cupcakes with question marks, or snack trays that spell “boy or girl.”

Going with a pink and blue vibe? Try strawberry and blueberry skewers, colored popcorn, cotton candy, or cake pops in hidden shades. Cute, easy, and totally snackable.

Smile, Snap, Repeat! Set Up a Cute Photo Booth

A gender reveal party without photos? Nope, not happening. A photo booth is the perfect way to capture all the fun, love, and “team pink or blue” pride.

You can DIY a setup with props and backdrops, or make it extra special with a professional setup. Consider renting a booth with instant prints and fun features. Some of the most popular options for gender reveal parties include:

• Instant Photo Booth – Strike a pose and get printed photos in seconds. Perfect for guests of all ages.
• Roving Photography – A photographer roams around capturing all the sweet and silly moments. No one gets left out.
• 360 Degree Photo Booth – Guests stand on a platform while the camera circles them. Great for big reactions and twirls.
• Animated GIF Photo Booth – Short, looping clips you can send instantly. It’s fun and super shareable.
• Customised Photo Booth – Match your booth to your theme with personalised designs and props.

Photos make the memories last, and they look amazing on the ‘Gram too.

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How to Plan a Gender Reveal Party On A Budget

Fun Reveals That Don’t Break the Bank

Who says you need to spend big to go big? Some of the most adorable gender reveals come from simple, creative ideas that totally wow.

Here are a few budget-friendly favorites:

• Balloon-in-a-box: Wrap up a big box filled with pink or blue balloons. Open the lid and let the surprise float out.
• Cupcake magic: Bake cupcakes with hidden pink or blue filling. One bite and the secret’s out. Yum.
• DIY confetti poppers: Make your own with paper tubes, tissue, and a little glitter (just not the kind that never leaves).
• Paint splash reveal: Squeeze pink or blue paint onto a canvas for a colorful, Insta-worthy moment.

It’s not about how much you spend. It’s about how fun you make it.

DIY Decor That Is Crafty, Cute, and Totally Affordable

Decorating doesn’t have to be pricey to be pretty. A little glue, a lot of creativity, and you’re party-ready.

Here’s how to make it cute without going broke:

• Choose a theme like “Waddle It Be?” or “Staches or Lashes” to tie everything together.
• Grab streamers, balloons, and paper fans in pink and blue. So simple, so cute.
• Make your own signs, food labels, and voting cards with free printables or markers and flair.
• Repurpose baby clothes, bottles, or toys as decorations. Double the cute.

Your guests will think you hired a stylist... only you’ll know it cost under ten bucks.

What to Save On and What’s Worth the Splurge

Planning a party on a budget is all about knowing when to DIY and when to treat yourself just a little.

Here’s the breakdown:

Save on

• Invitations (digital is fast and free)
• Decorations (go crafty)
• Food and drinks (keep it simple and crowd-friendly)

Splurge a little on

• The reveal moment. Whether it's a dreamy cake or a confetti explosion, this is your spotlight.
• Photos. A cute setup or photo booth makes everything feel extra special and gives guests a fun keepsake.

A little planning goes a long way. The goal is to celebrate, not stress the budget.

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Inclusive and Modern Alternatives to Traditional Reveals

Skip the Pink And Blue with Gender Neutral Reveal Ideas

If pink and blue confetti isn’t your thing, that’s totally okay. There are so many sweet and stylish ways to celebrate without putting baby in a box—color-wise, that is.

Think color themes like yellow and mint, green and gold, or even a full rainbow party. You could reveal a cute message instead of a color, like “Baby Is On The Way!” or “Loved Beyond Labels.” It keeps the surprise fun but lets you skip the gender stereotypes. Everyone still gets to celebrate, and baby gets a party that’s 100 percent unique.

Make It Personal With A Name Or Zodiac Reveal

Why not switch things up and reveal something unexpected? A baby name reveal can be just as exciting, especially if it has a fun backstory or meaning.

You could also do a zodiac sign reveal based on the due date. Add a touch of magic with star signs, constellations, or themed decorations. It’s quirky, meaningful, and gives everyone something new to guess!

Celebrate the Family, Not Just The Gender

Not every family fits the same mold, and that’s the beauty of it. Some parents may be embracing adoption, surrogacy, or welcoming a baby in a more blended or non-traditional family setting.

Instead of a typical gender reveal, think about what really matters to your crew. Celebrate the journey, the love, and the joy of a growing family—however that looks. No rules, just love, laughter, and a really good cake.

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Conclusion About Planning A Gender Reveal Party

Planning a gender reveal party is one of the most exciting parts of the baby journey. It’s your big “ta-da!” moment, and with the right mix of timing, theme, and a touch of sparkle, it can be as fun as it is meaningful.

Whether you're hosting at home, renting out a cozy restaurant, or planning a picnic in the park, don’t forget the extras that make it unforgettable. Think pink and blue cupcakes, confetti everywhere, and a photo booth that catches every gasp and giggle. Want to spice it up even more? Try a 360° Slow Motion Video Booth for those dramatic reveals, or add Roving Photography to catch all the behind-the-scenes smiles.

At The Photobooth, we’re all about turning sweet moments into snap-worthy memories. Our Instant Photo Booths are the perfect party add-on—fun, fuss-free, and super cute. Because if you’re going to throw a party this adorable, you better have the photos to prove it.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Planning A Gender Reveal Party

When Do You Do A Gender Reveal Party?

Most people plan their gender reveal party between 18 to 20 weeks of pregnancy, after the baby's gender is confirmed through an ultrasound.

How Does Gender Reveal Party Work?

It usually involves a fun reveal moment, like cutting a cake or popping a balloon, to share the baby's gender with friends and family.

How To Prepare A Gender Reveal Party?

Pick a theme, choose a reveal method, plan your guest list, and decide on food, games, and decorations to match the vibe.

How To Do Gender Reveal Party On A Budget?

Use DIY decorations, digital invites, and simple reveal ideas like cupcakes or confetti to keep things cute and affordable.

Can Parents Be Surprised Too?

Yes, they can hand the gender results to a trusted friend or vendor so they find out at the same time as everyone else.

Do I Have To Choose Pink And Blue?

Not at all—many parents go for gender-neutral themes with colors like yellow, green, or even a full rainbow palette.

Should I Hire A Photographer For The Party?

If you want to capture the reactions and fun moments, a photo booth or roving photographer is a great idea.

Can I Combine The Gender Reveal With A Baby Shower?

Yes, many families combine the two events for convenience and to celebrate with everyone at once.

Is It Okay To Host A Virtual Gender Reveal?

Absolutely, virtual parties are a great option and can still include games, themes, and a live-streamed reveal moment.

What If I Don’t Want To Reveal The Gender?

That’s perfectly fine—some parents choose to celebrate the baby’s arrival with a name reveal or simply a “baby celebration” instead.