Throw an Epic Bash: Discount Party Supplies at Five Below
Planning a memorable celebration can feel like a high-stakes endeavor. You aim for a fabulous atmosphere and a joyous occasion, but the cost of balloons, streamers, and tableware can quickly turn excitement into budget panic. Sound familiar? Fortunately, there are places to find everything you need for an epic celebration without breaking the bank.
For years, Five Below has been a go-to for affordable party supplies. This guide shares insights on how to leverage their offerings for your next event.
Latest Update (April 2026)
As of April 2026, Five Below continues to be a popular destination for budget-conscious party planners. While the store has expanded its price points to include items up to $10, $20, and occasionally more, the core value remains. Recent celebrity events highlight the ongoing trend of “epic bashes.” For instance, as HELLO! Magazine reported in August 2025, Madonna threw an epic backyard bash for her twins. Similarly, Rolling Out covered Cardi B’s epic birthday bash in September 2025, showcasing how elaborate celebrations are still achievable on various budgets. These events demonstrate that “epic” doesn’t always mean exorbitant costs, especially when smart sourcing is involved.
Additionally, the demand for unique, themed experiences persists. The Natural History Museum’s New Year’s Eve party, as detailed by Secret London in October 2025, featured live music and after-hours access, indicating a trend towards experiential parties. While not directly related to Five Below’s inventory, this underscores the desire for memorable party elements that can often be supplemented or created with affordable finds.
Why Five Below is a Go-To for Party Planning
Five Below offers a compelling combination of value, variety, and accessibility for party supplies. While the store has evolved beyond its original $5 price point, introducing items up to $10, $20, and sometimes higher, the fundamental appeal of affordable essentials remains strong. Users report that the vast majority of party basics are still incredibly budget-friendly, allowing for ample stocking up without constant financial stress.
The variety is often surprising, ranging from seasonal decorations to everyday party necessities. Customers can find diverse colors and themes that are easily mixed and matched. Furthermore, Five Below’s inventory is frequently updated, ensuring there are always new and exciting items to discover, which is ideal for keeping party themes fresh and unique.
The versatility of Five Below’s merchandise is another key advantage. Many items are not explicitly labeled as ‘party supplies’ but can be creatively repurposed into fantastic decor or party favors. This adaptability allows for a more personalized and distinctive celebration.
Key Sections for Discount Party Supplies
When shopping at Five Below for party needs, a strategic approach can yield the best results. Beyond the dedicated party aisle, exploring other sections can uncover hidden gems.
The ‘Party Zone’ Aisle
This is the primary destination for foundational party elements. Shoppers can typically find:
- Balloons: A selection of Mylar balloons for various occasions, often priced affordably. Look for number and letter balloons, character designs, and essential balloon weights.
- Tableware: Plates, cups, and napkins in a wide array of colors and patterns. Solid colors are great for complementing any theme, while patterned items can add a playful touch.
- Banners and Streamers: Basic ‘Happy Birthday’ banners and solid-colored streamers that can be used for versatile decorating. Seasonal banners can often be adapted for general themes.
- Party Favors: Small toys, stickers, and temporary tattoos, perfect for goodie bags, especially for children’s parties. Multi-packs offer additional savings.
Beyond the Basics: Unexpected Finds
The real magic often lies in creative repurposing. Exploring other store sections can lead to unique discount party supplies:
- Craft Aisle: This is a treasure trove for DIY enthusiasts. Items like glitter, glue, craft paper, small canvases, paints, pipe cleaners, and googly eyes are excellent for creating custom centerpieces, photo booth props, or personalized party hats.
- Home Decor: Look for decorative items like vases, picture frames, candles, fairy lights, and storage bins. These can be transformed into stylish centerpieces, ambient lighting, or favor containers. For a recent ‘tropical’ theme, users report repurposing decorative plants and woven baskets as key decor elements.
- Seasonal Sections: Whether it’s a holiday or a change of season, these areas often have relevant colors and motifs that can be incorporated into non-seasonal party themes. Think pastel colors for a spring baby shower or metallic accents for a New Year’s Eve party.
Dollar Deals & Impulse Buys
Don’t overlook the checkout aisles or designated value sections. These areas often feature small, inexpensive items that can serve as last-minute additions to goodie bags, table scatter, or simple party favors.
Smart Strategies for Scoring the Best Discount Party Supplies
Maximizing your budget at Five Below requires a blend of planning and creativity.
Plan Ahead, But Stay Flexible
Having a general idea of your party’s theme and color scheme before you shop will help you focus. However, be open to adapting your plans based on what’s available. Sometimes, a unique find can inspire a whole new theme.
Theme It Up (Without Breaking the Bank)
Five Below excels at providing general party supplies in various colors. Use these basics as a foundation and add a few specific themed items if available. For example, for a ‘space’ theme, use black and silver balloons and streamers, and then add a few glow-in-the-dark stars or planet-themed stickers found in the craft or favor sections.
DIY Magic with Five Below Finds
This is where creativity shines. As noted, the craft aisle is invaluable. Users report creating custom banners by cutting letters from cardstock, making photo booth props from craft supplies, or even decorating plain items like buckets or bags to serve as party favor containers.
Don’t Forget the Favors
Five Below offers a wide range of small items perfect for goodie bags. Consider assembling themed bags with items like stickers, temporary tattoos, small toys, candy, or even mini craft kits. Buying items in bulk or multi-packs can significantly reduce the per-item cost.
Common Pitfalls When Buying Discount Party Supplies (And How to Avoid Them)
While Five Below offers great value, some common mistakes can be made:
- Overbuying: It’s easy to get carried away with low prices. Stick to your list and budget.
- Ignoring Quality: While generally good for the price, some items might be less durable. Inspect items like balloons or tableware for obvious defects before purchasing.
- Last-Minute Shopping: Popular items, especially seasonal ones, can sell out quickly. Shopping a few weeks in advance is recommended.
- Forgetting Essentials: Ensure you have all necessary items like tape, scissors, or balloon pumps, which may need to be purchased elsewhere.
Top Party Essentials Available at Five Below
Based on user reports and product availability, here are some consistently recommended party essentials:
- Balloons: Mylar and latex options for birthdays and general celebrations.
- Tableware: Disposable plates, cups, and napkins in various colors and patterns.
- Decorations: Streamers, banners, tablecloths, and themed cutouts.
- Party Favors: A wide assortment of small toys, novelty items, and candy.
- Craft Supplies: Essential for DIY decorations and activities, including glitter, glue, and art materials.
Making Your Party Pop: Real-Life Examples
Consider a ‘Glow Party’ theme. Five Below often stocks neon-colored balloons, streamers, and tableware. Add glow sticks and bracelets from the novelty or checkout aisles. For a DIY element, users report purchasing black poster board and neon paint from the craft section to create custom signs or backdrops.
For a ‘Tropical Luau,’ look for brightly colored leis (sometimes found seasonally), grass skirts (often in the seasonal decor), and palm tree cutouts. Use plain colored plates and napkins, and perhaps repurpose small decorative baskets from the home section as serving dishes or favor holders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to buy discount party supplies?
Based on current market trends and user reviews from 2026, excellent places to buy discount party supplies include Five Below, Dollar Tree, Walmart, Target’s dollar spot and seasonal sections, and online retailers like Amazon and Oriental Trading Company. Each offers a different mix of price points and product variety.
Does Five Below sell themed party kits?
Yes, Five Below often carries themed party kits that include coordinating plates, cups, napkins, and sometimes banners or centerpieces, especially for popular occasions like birthdays and holidays. Availability can vary by season and location.
Are Five Below balloons good quality?
Reports indicate that Five Below balloons are generally of decent quality for their price point. Mylar balloons for special occasions often hold helium well for a few days, and latex balloons are suitable for casual decorating. As with any discount item, it’s wise to inspect them for any defects.
Can I find decorations for adult parties at Five Below?
Absolutely. While many items cater to children’s parties, Five Below also offers sophisticated color palettes, metallic accents, candles, fairy lights, and generic banners that can be easily adapted for adult celebrations, such as birthdays, anniversaries, or themed gatherings.
What is the price range for party supplies at Five Below in 2026?
While Five Below is known for its $5 price point, the store now offers items ranging from $1 up to $20 or more for specialty items. The majority of core party essentials like plates, napkins, balloons, and streamers are still typically found in the $1-$5 range, offering substantial savings.
Conclusion
Five Below remains a powerful resource for anyone looking to throw an epic party without overspending. By strategically shopping its ‘Party Zone,’ exploring other aisles for versatile items, and embracing DIY creativity, you can achieve a festive and memorable atmosphere. Remember to plan ahead, stay flexible, and focus on the value these affordable supplies offer.
