How much should a DJ charge for 5 hours?

A five-hour DJ booking is a common length for a wedding evening reception, often covering the first dance, background music and dancing until late. The price you are quoted will depend on the DJ's reputation, the quality of their equipment, travel distance, and the time of year. A Saturday wedding in summer will cost more than a weekday in winter, simply because demand is higher.

When you ask for a quote, be clear about what the five hours includes. Does it cover just the music, or also a microphone for speeches, a separate sound system for the ceremony, or uplighting? Some DJs charge extra for setup time, which is fair because they need to arrive early and test everything. Always confirm whether the five hours is playing time or total time from setup to pack-down.

It is wise to get at least three quotes so you can compare like for like. Ask each DJ for a breakdown of their fee, and check what happens if your wedding runs late. Some DJs charge overtime by the half hour, so ask about that in advance.

You might also consider whether you need a DJ for the full five hours. If your guests are happy with a playlist for the first hour, you could book the DJ for four hours instead and save money. But if you want a lively dance floor from the start, five hours is a good amount.