To choose the right stilt walkers, start with your venue: ceiling height, floor surface and space to move decide what is possible. Then pick a costume style that fits your theme and check the performer's experience, insurance and set lengths. This checklist covers what we check for every booking.
Key takeaways
- Measure your ceiling height and check the floor before choosing a costume.
- Ask for recent photos or video of the exact costume you are booking.
- Plan stilt walkers for standing moments, not seated dinner service.
Will stilt walkers fit in your venue?
This is the first question we ask. Stilt walkers stand well above normal head height, and many costumes add wings, headpieces or props. Low ceilings, doorways, chandeliers and hanging floral installations all need to be checked.
Floors matter as much as ceilings. Polished marble can be slippery, and outdoor lawns can be soft after rain. Give us photos of the space and we will check it with the performer.
Think about the route as well as the room. Performers need to get from the changing area to the event space without stairs, low doorways or tight corridors, and back again for breaks.
Which costume style suits your event?
Costume is where stilt walkers vary most. LED and light-up costumes suit evening receptions and winter parties. Elegant white or gold looks suit weddings. Bright carnival costumes fit summer festivals and family days.
For South Asian weddings, many couples like costumes that pick up their colour scheme, or a royal look that fits a baraat or reception entrance. Themed corporate events might want branded colours.
Whatever you choose, ask for photos of the exact costume rather than a general portfolio. It avoids surprises on the day and helps your photographer and decorator plan around the look.
- LED or illuminated costumes for evening events
- White, gold or floral looks for weddings
- Carnival and circus styles for festivals
- Branded or themed costumes for launches
What questions should you ask before booking?
Ask these questions of any stilt walker so you can compare options fairly.
- Can I see recent photos or video of this exact costume?
- How long are your sets and how many breaks do you need?
- What height are you on stilts, including headwear?
- What floor surfaces can you work on safely?
- Do you hold public liability insurance?
- What do you need on arrival, such as a changing room?
Tip from our team: Ask for the height including any headpiece. The costume often adds more than people expect.
Want a quote for stilt walkers?
Free, no obligation. Tell us your date and venue.
What are the red flags when hiring stilt walkers?
Be wary of anyone who does not ask about your venue. A professional will want to know the ceiling height, floor and access before confirming.
Other warning signs include no insurance, photos that look very different from recent work, and vague answers about set lengths. Every partner we put forward is vetted and insured.
Also check the booking confirmation. It should state arrival time, set times, the costume, the number of performers and what the venue needs to provide. Clear paperwork prevents most problems on the day.
When should stilt walkers perform during the day?
The best window is when guests are standing and moving: arrival, the drinks reception and the gap before the evening party. Stilt walkers greet guests, pose for photos and guide people to their seats.
They can also lead a procession. A stilt walker walking ahead of dhol players on the way to the reception room makes a strong entrance. Once dinner starts, bring the performance to a close.
Share the running order with your host and venue coordinator so everyone knows when the performers will be moving through the room. It stops them clashing with waiting staff carrying trays.
How far in advance should you book stilt walkers?
For peak dates in summer and December, two to four months ahead is sensible. Custom costumes need longer. We cover the whole UK, from London and Kent to Manchester and Glasgow, as well as destination events abroad.
Send us your date, venue and theme and we will check availability.
Want a quote for stilt walkers?
Free, no obligation. Tell us your date and venue.
Frequently asked questions
Are stilt walkers safe around children?
Yes, experienced stilt walkers are used to busy crowds and children. They move slowly, keep a clear view of the ground and take breaks. We recommend a clear walking route and a flat, dry floor.
Can stilt walkers go up stairs?
Generally no. Stairs, steep ramps and uneven steps are unsafe in stilts. Plan the route so performers stay on one level, with a changing space nearby.
Do stilt walkers talk to guests?
It depends on the character. Many interact through gestures, poses and playful mime, while others chat freely. Tell us the style you want and we will match the performer.
Can stilt walkers hand out drinks or flyers?
Some can, using trays or costume props designed for it. This works well at product launches and brand events. Mention it when you enquire so we can check the costume allows it.
Check your venue for stilts
Send us your venue details and we will confirm what works and suggest costumes.
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Written by the Party Central events team. Prices mentioned are starting points only. Exact pricing depends on availability, your exact requirements, time on site and location. Party Central is a trading name of Booking Central Ltd.
