When Should You Have a Baby Shower?

If you're expecting a baby, there's a good chance someone has already asked the question:

“When are you having your baby shower?”

So, when should you have a baby shower?

For most pregnancies, the best time to have a baby shower is during the third trimester, typically between 28 and 34 weeks of pregnancy. This gives you plenty of time to celebrate your growing family while still leaving several weeks before your estimated due date to organize gifts, purchase anything you're still missing, and prepare for baby's arrival.

But there is no universal rule.

The best baby shower date depends on your pregnancy, comfort level, family schedule, travel plans, and the type of celebration you want to have.

If you're planning a baby shower in Boise, Idaho, here's what to consider when choosing your date.

What Month of Pregnancy Is Best for a Baby Shower?

Traditionally, baby showers are held sometime during the seventh or eighth month of pregnancy.

For many expecting parents, this is the sweet spot.

Your pregnancy is far enough along that the celebration feels connected to baby's upcoming arrival, but hopefully not so close to your due date that you're uncomfortable or worried about going into labor before the party.

A general timeline might look like:

24–27 weeks: Earlier shower
28–32 weeks: Popular sweet spot
33–35 weeks: Later shower
36+ weeks: Possible, but getting pretty close to baby's arrival!

There is nothing wrong with celebrating earlier or later. Your pregnancy and circumstances should always come before tradition.

Is 28 Weeks Too Early for a Baby Shower?

Not at all.

Around 28 weeks can actually be a wonderful time to host your baby shower.

You may have more energy than you will later in pregnancy, and you'll have plenty of time afterward to organize gifts, finish the nursery, wash baby clothes, and purchase anything remaining on your registry.

An earlier baby shower can also make sense if guests are traveling or you're trying to plan around holidays, weather, work schedules, or other family events.

Is 32 Weeks a Good Time for a Baby Shower?

Yes! Around 30–32 weeks is one of the most popular times to have a baby shower.

Baby is getting closer, your bump is beautifully showing for photos, and there's still some breathing room before your estimated due date.

For many families, this timing gives you the best of both worlds: the excitement of baby's arrival feels very real without scheduling your celebration at the very end of pregnancy.

Is 36 Weeks Too Late for a Baby Shower?

Not necessarily—but you'll want to consider your comfort and circumstances.

At 36 weeks, you're getting very close to full term. Sitting, standing, socializing, opening gifts, and being the center of attention for several hours may feel different than it would have a month earlier.

And, of course, babies don't always follow our calendars.

If you're planning a later shower, consider keeping it smaller, shorter, and more relaxed.

Think brunch, flowers, comfortable seating, good food, and your closest people rather than an elaborate event with a packed itinerary.