A: During the party, the Mad Scientist will engage the children with amazing science demonstrations that are conducted with the help of your birthday child and guests. Some examples of experiments that may be included are: fitting a hardboiled egg into an impossibly small space, melting styrofoam, seeing flash paper disappear, or playing with magic sand. During the final 10-15 minutes of the party, the kids will make slime to take home. Adding on Bubbling Potions, a rocket launch or a hovercraft ride will add 10-15 minutes to the length of your party.
Q: How far in advance do I need to book my party?
A: Our party schedule fills up quickly. We suggest that you book well in advance to get the date and time you want. Generally, at least 4 weeks in advance is recommended.
Q: What do I need to do to make a reservation?
A: We can book parties over the phone by calling the office at (757) 502-8124 between the hours of 9 am to 4 pm.We require a 50 % deposit to book your party. We accept either Visa, Mastercard. or Discover.
Q: What time can I have my party?
A: On Saturdays we have set party times of 11:00 a.m., 1:30 p.m., or 4:00 p.m. Sunday party times are 1:30 p.m. or 4:00 p.m. Weekday parties may be possible with advance notice; contact our office for details. All dates and times are subject to availability.
Q: Do I need to know the number of kids attending my party to book it?
A: No. All we need is an estimate of the number of children you expect to attend. We ask that you plan for the largest number of children expected. On the day of the party, you will be charged only for the number of kids that actually attend.
Q: Do you have any themed parties?
A: No, we do not offer themed parties. If you have a theme, we can notify the Mad Scientist, and he/she will do his/her best to incorporate your theme into the experiments and language used.
Q: When will the Mad Scientist arrive?
A: The Mad Scientist will arrive at least 15 minutes early to set up. He/she will be ready to start the show at the time you booked. It is best to have your guests arrive at least 15-30 minutes before your Mad Science show is scheduled to start to ensure the Mad Scientist is able to start on time.
Q: What kind of space is needed?
A: The Mad Scientist will need at least a 4ft. table. We ask that you have enough space for the Mad Scientist and for your guests to be comfortable as well. The kids can be seated on the floor or in chairs, several feet back from the table.
Q: How much space is needed for the rocket launch?
A: The Mad Scientist will need a medium to large size back yard or open space to launch the rocket. If you are not sure if you have a sufficient space, you can always add the rocket launch and then the Mad Scientist will assess whether or not it is safe to launch the rocket on the day of the party. You will not be charged for the upgrade if the rocket cannot be launched safely.
Q: What do you need from us?
A: We will need access to water for set-up and clean-up, access to electricity, and at least a 4 ft. table. Please let us know if your party location will not have any of these items.
Q: Once I have scheduled my party, can I make changes to it later?
A: Any changes to your party must be scheduled at least three business days before your party.
Q: Is it okay to have other activities going on while the Mad Scientist is performing?
A: The Mad Scientist will begin at the scheduled start time and continue until our portion of the entertainment is finished. We will not be able to stop for any other activities (ex. food or cake). Please plan accordingly.
Q: Can I hold my party outdoors?
A. Our parties are designed to work best indoors, where we have the most control over the party environment. If you must schedule your party outdoors, it may affect the length of the party, as we might not be able to perform all experiments. Additionally, we still require access to a table, water, and electricity even if the party is at an outdoor location.
Q: Who is included in my party?
A: Our parties are most appropriate for 5-12 year olds. Younger siblings generally watch and may participate in the take home experiment (i.e. slime), but must be included in the number of children count if they do so.
Q: When do I pay?
A: We require a 50% deposit to book your party. At the end of your party, you will pay the Mad Scientist the remaining balance. You can pay with cash, check, or provide authorization to charge the credit card we have on file.
Q: What is your policy on tipping?
A. If you think your Mad Scientist did a great job, a tip is very much appreciated. 15%-20% of your party cost is typical. Tips should be given directly to the Mad Scientist, and not included in your balance payment.
