Event Food Calculator
Never run out of food at your event! Calculate exactly how much food you need based on your guest count, event type, and duration. Perfect for weddings, parties, corporate events, and holiday gatherings.
Event Food Planning Tips
Consider Event Timing
Guests eat more at dinner events than lunch. Late-night parties need less food than dinner parties. Afternoon events can get by with lighter fare.
Know Your Guests
Adults eat more than children. Athletes and outdoor workers have bigger appetites. Elderly guests typically eat smaller portions.
Plan for Extra
Always prepare 10-15% more food than calculated. It's better to have leftovers than run out. Popular items go faster than expected.
Don't Forget Ice
Plan 1-1.5 lbs of ice per person for drinks. Double that if you're using ice for food displays or it's a hot outdoor event.
How Much Food Do You Need for Your Event?
Planning food quantities for an event can be challenging. Order too much and you waste money on excess food. Order too little and you risk running out, leaving guests hungry and disappointed. Our event food calculator takes the guesswork out of party planning by providing accurate estimates based on your specific event details.
General Food Quantity Guidelines
| Food Type | Per Person (Light) | Per Person (Heavy) |
|---|---|---|
| Appetizers (cocktail party) | 6-8 pieces | 12-15 pieces |
| Appetizers (before dinner) | 3-4 pieces | 5-6 pieces |
| Main Course Protein | 4-5 oz | 6-8 oz |
| Side Dishes (each) | 3-4 oz | 5-6 oz |
| Green Salad | 1 oz | 2 oz |
| Bread/Rolls | 1-1.5 pieces | 2 pieces |
| Dessert | 1 serving | 1.5 servings |
Beverage Guidelines
Plan for 2-3 drinks per person for the first hour of your event, then 1-2 drinks per person per hour after that. For a 4-hour event, plan approximately 8-10 drinks per guest total, split between alcoholic and non-alcoholic options based on your crowd.