Frequently Asked Questions 

What happens during the party?

Mad Scientists arrive 15 minutes before the party in their lab coats to set-up the experiments.

The show may range from 60 to 90 minutes based on the party you select.  During the show, the Mad Scientist will perform between 6 and 12 experiments with the assistance of the birthday child, while involving the rest of his or her friends in various demonstrations.

Most of our parties conclude with a hands-on activity where all of the children create a project that they can take home! Grand Finales like Rocket Launches and Bubbling Potions are also popular conclusions to our parties and each will add about 15 minutes.

How old do children need to be to enjoy and participate in the party?

Since our parties involve hands-on, interactive activities, they are usually appropriate for children 5 and older. Younger siblings are welcome to watch but do not participate.

What if my child has attended a Mad Science party before?

We have the programming to avoid repeating a party. When booking the party, tell us about what your child has experienced so that we can prevent repeating the experiments they saw as a party guest or during their previous birthday party.

Where are Mad Science parties held?

Our Mad Scientist will come to wherever you locate the party. In addition to homes, we conduct parties at community centers, restaurants, parks, the child’s classroom and other locations. Please let us know where the party will be held when you book the party.

What is involved with hosting a Mad Science Party?

There are no hassles, no worries and no mess with a Mad Science party. The Mad Scientist will arrive early to set-up the equipment and will clean-up at the conclusion of the party—leaving the party site exactly as they found it. What you will need to provide includes:

  • Access to electricity and water.
  • A small table (e.g. card table) to set up our equipment.
  • An area where the children can sit on the floor with space between them and the display table.
  • The ability to darken the room is preferable. Let us know if this is not possible when booking the party.

What is the typical flow of activities for the party?

We recommend starting the party 15 minutes before the Mad Science Show is to begin to allow for any late arrivals. You can plan you other activities like food service and presents after the Show. We will provide you with the estimated amount of time needed for all the Mad Science activities at the time of booking.

When are you available to conduct parties?

We will perform our shows any day of the week however, the most popular days for parties are Saturdays and Sundays. General times for parties are mornings (except Sunday); early afternoons and late afternoons.

Do you conduct parties in my area?

Mad Science covers the Greater Charlotte area. A travel charge may apply outside of Mecklenburg County.

How far in advance should I schedule a Mad Science party?

The earlier you call to schedule a party the better opportunity you have to get your preferred date and time—weekends can sell out 30 days in advance. So, we recommend that you book your party at least 4 weeks in advance.

What if I want to book a party less than two weeks prior to the party date?

Your options will be limited and we may be unable to confirm the party at the time of your call.

Is a deposit required?

A $50 deposit is required at the time of booking to reserve your party.  We accept Visa and MasterCard for deposits. The balance will be due on the day of your party.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept Visa, Master Card, personal check and money orders for the balance owed at the conclusion of the party. The Mad Scientist will present you with an invoice when they arrive for the party. Any changes to the balance due should be discussed with the Mad Scientist prior to payment. Please be prepared to provide payment promptly at the conclusion of the party.

What if I order more or less Goody Bags than are needed?

You only pay for the number of Goody Bags used. We bring a few more Goody Bags than is guaranteed, in case unexpected guests attend.

When are the party details confirmed or modified?

If we have not heard from you earlier, we will call you about 5 days in advance of the party to reconfirm your information. Contact Mad Science immediately when the number of children attending changes dramatically, to add goody bags, to add Grand Finales or to change the party location. 

We will endeavor to meet your needs however, we can not guarantee that changes to the originally booking can be accommodated.

Is a gratuity for the instructor customary?

Tipping the instructor is up to your discretion. A gratuity for good to excellent service usually ranges between 10% and 20%. When rewarding the instructor, please keep the tip separate from the balance that is due Mad Science.

What is your cancellation policy?

You will be refunded your entire deposit if you cancel your party 10 business days or more prior to the party. Cancellations within 10 business days will not qualify for a refund however the amount may be applied to other Mad Science services (e.g. rescheduled party, camps, after-school programs). Deposits on cancellations within 24 hours of the party will not be refunded or available for other services.

What happens in the case of inclement weather?

The Mad Scientist will discuss the alternatives with you the day before the party if inclement weather is forecasted. We are concerned with the safe travel for everyone and the ability to provide a great party. You will have priority if the party needs to be rescheduled.

Do you want to hear about the Mad Science party I hosted?

Absolutely! We pride ourselves on the services we provide and want to know about your experience. The Mad Scientist will present you with a pre-stamped survey card along with the invoice. Please take a moment to provide your feedback so that we can improve our service.

Call us to book a party! 704-561-9996