Party Drink Calculator
Estimate how many drinks to buy for a party by guests, duration and type.
Stocking a party
Buying drinks for a party is a balance between running dry and being left with crates you did not need. This estimates how much to buy from the number of guests, how long the party runs, and the mix of drinks, so you stock roughly the right amount.
Enter the guest count, duration and drink types to see the estimate.
The rules of thumb
A common planning guide is around one drink per guest for the first hour and one per hour after, adjusted for the crowd and occasion — a long celebration with drinkers needs far more than a short afternoon gathering. Provide plenty of non-alcoholic options too, since not everyone drinks and people need to pace themselves. Most retailers take back unopened stock, so it is safer to over-buy a little than run short. And if guests are driving, planning soft drinks and being mindful of how much is served is simply responsible.
Party Drink Calculator FAQ
How many drinks per guest should I plan?
A common guide is one drink for the first hour and one per hour after, adjusted for the crowd and how long the party runs.
Should I buy extra?
A little, since many shops take back unopened stock — running short is worse. And always provide plenty of non-alcoholic options.
Is anything uploaded?
No. The calculation happens in your browser.