New Haven's #1 Family MAGICIAN

About Magician Matt Matthews

Planning a birthday or family gathering around New Haven, West Haven, or North Haven? Matt Matthews is a local favorite for high-energy, kid-friendly entertainment that parents enjoy too. He is a New Haven native, born at Yale New Haven Hospital and a graduate of Career High School on Legion Avenue. Over the years, Matt has performed for kids’ birthday parties, city functions, schools, and libraries across the region, bringing lively, interactive magic that keeps attention on the show and smiles in every direction.

Matt has appeared for the City of New Haven’s Fourth of July festivities outside Wilder Cross High School. After that event, Kyle Yoder from the Department of Arts, Culture & Tourism shared this note:

“He was great at the New Haven Fourth of July! I hired Matt to create his balloon masterpieces for the City of New Haven’s family-friendly festivities leading up to our Fourth of July fireworks. Once the first kid received his balloon … they started lining up in droves. Matt was always happy to oblige, though, making sure each and every kid left with a smile and a creation of their own, whether it was a superhero, a funky hat, or their very own life-sized Olaf (from Disney’s ‘Frozen’). I would highly recommend him for your event!”
— Kyle Yoder, Department of Arts, Culture & Tourism, City of New Haven

Following his performance for New Haven Head Start on Cedar Street, Janic Maysonet wrote:

“[Matt Matthews] has many tricks up his sleeves, pun intended. Matt was great, true artist with balloon twisting. Enjoyed his work and the kids did too.”
— Janic Maysonet, New Haven Head Start

Giving back matters to Matt. He has donated his time for the families at the Ronald McDonald House on Howard Avenue and volunteered for a Make-A-Wish Foundation fundraiser hosted at Southern Connecticut State University.

Why Families in New Haven, West Haven & North Haven Book Matt

• Interactive fun that works for mixed ages — the show pulls kids into the action while adults enjoy clear sightlines and photo-ready moments.
• Comfortable in homes and venues — living rooms, community rooms, club spaces, and park shelters all make great settings with a simple layout.
• Kid-first pacing — routines are structured to keep younger guests engaged while older siblings and grown-ups stay entertained.
• Easy seating plan — kids sit criss-cross up front and adults take chairs behind, which keeps attention high and makes pictures easy.
• Smart scheduling — with weekend sports and activities, many local families now choose Friday evening parties to reduce conflicts.

Where to Host a Party in New Haven, West Haven & North Haven

New Haven: Families often consider Lighthouse Point Park for breezy waterfront gatherings and East Rock Park for classic views and shaded picnic areas. For official details, start with the city’s Parks, Recreation & Trees page and the city’s park permits and applications. Facility information is listed for Lighthouse Point Park and East Rock Park.

West Haven: Parents frequently look at Old Grove Park near Savin Rock for pavilion-style picnics and easy beach access. Check West Haven Parks & Recreation and the city’s MyRec facilities list for reservations and availability.

North Haven: For community rooms and fields, begin with North Haven Community Services & Recreation. Nature-loving families also consider Quinnipiac River State Park for low-key outdoor time along the river corridor. For state park information, see Quinnipiac River State Park.

Neighborhood coverage for quick planning: In New Haven, families often host around Westville, East Rock, Wooster Square, Downtown and the Green, Fair Haven, The Hill, Edgewood, Newhallville, Dixwell, and the East Shore near Lighthouse Point. In West Haven, Allingtown, West Shore, and Savin Rock see frequent celebrations. In North Haven, common areas include Montowese, Clintonville, Ridge Road, and Quinnipiac Meadows.

More Places Families Book Parties (Ideas)

• New Haven Free Public Library branches — meeting rooms that suit cozy, kid-friendly gatherings. Review branch policies here: NHFPL meeting rooms.
• Lighthouse Point Park carousel season days — many families pair a seaside picnic with time at the park. See the official park page for updates.
• Old Grove Park pavilions — beach-adjacent shelters that are popular for simple, bring-your-own celebrations. Check facilities and availability.
• Quinnipiac River State Park — trails and open space for relaxed outdoor meetups. See state park details.

Party Logistics — Quick Answers

Indoors or outdoors? Indoors usually delivers the best focus and comfort for a magic show. If you plan an outdoor party, choose shade, keep the performance area dry, and avoid direct sun or strong wind. In colder months, a warm spot keeps guests comfortable and the show running smoothly.

How should we seat guests? A simple plan works well. Kids sit criss-cross at the front. Adults sit in chairs behind them. This arrangement helps with attention, photos, and space management in both homes and community rooms.

When should we schedule? Weekend calendars fill quickly with sports and activities. Many local families now choose Friday evening parties to make attendance easier and reduce stress.

What exactly is included? Details vary based on the party style and age mix. For specifics, please review the birthday options on the packages page below.

Next Steps

Read parent reviews • See birthday party packages • Check availability

Venue names are suggestions to help with planning. Please confirm rules, permits, and availability with each venue directly. Mentions do not imply partnership or endorsement.