How Much Food Should I Buy for a Party With 60 Guests?

You should buy at least 1 lb. of food per guest for a party.

About 1 to 1 ½ lbs. of Food Per Person

Each guest you invite will eat approximately 1 to 1 ½ lbs. of food--approximately ½ lb. of meat per person, ¼ lb. of starches such as bread or pasta and ¼ lb. of vegetables such as salad. For a party of 60 this will be approximately 60 to 90 lbs. of food.

It Depends on Several Factors

The type of party you're throwing plays a big factor into how much food you will serve. A party of 60 children will eat much less than a party of 60 Marines. Other factors that you should consider are the time of day the party will be held and the focus of the party--whether the party about food, or food is only a formality.

Bottom Line

Most experts agree that for a party of 60 guests you should provide each guest with at least 1 lb. of food. This is a good rule of thumb as some guests will only nibble as others will take much more than 1 lb. You should also take beverages into account--approximately two beverages per person, or 120 beverages.

References

• Party Recipes And Ideas: Party Food Quantities and Party Supplies Guide
• The Old Farmer's Almanac: The Party Planner: Cooking for a Crowd
• Reason To Party!: Food and Beverage Quantities for your Event or Party!
• Great Party Recipes: Party Food Planning Guide

Resources

• Chef Menus: Cooking for a Crowd? Need Large Quantity Recipes? Why Not Create Your Own?
• Kids Party Fun: Party Food