This year, I’ve been hunting for great carnival party ideas for my kindergartener’s birthday bash. The bright colors and State Fair-style food is a current favorite of kids and a nostalgic favorite of grown-ups. And here’s the thing: Carnival parties are perfect for the backyard, so I don’t have to spend a lot of money on a pricey venue — or worry about kids messing up my house.
See, our carnival party will be big. My girl has friends from soccer, preschool, and her new class, so lots of invites will be hitting mailboxes all over town. I want the party to be cute, but not too cutesy. I’m determined to get creative in making a party that’s fun for kids and parents alike. Here, I’ve rounded up 11 carnival party ideas that are cool, not cheesy. Ready to get inspired? Check ’em out.
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11 Non-Cheesy Carnival Party Ideas
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Carnival Birthday Photo Booth
Fun animal masks and a huge barbell let little guests flex their muscles and portray their favorite carnival animal for the camera.
Image: Lu Loves Handmade
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Carnival Birthday Food Vendor
You're already doling out snacks left and right. Look the part by attaching striped ribbon to a box of goodies to be a carnival vendor.
Image: Pinterest
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Carnival Birthday Sack Hop Game
Decorate plain, white bags with colorful fabric dots for a festive potato sack race.
Image: HWTM
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Carnival Birthday Guessing Booth
Let the kiddos take a turn at guessing how many treats are in each container. The closest guess wins the whole jar.
Image: East Coast Mommy
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Carnival Birthday Gum Ball Favors
Mini gum ball machines will be a big hit as take-home favors for carnival kiddos.
Image: Little Shop of Wow
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Carnival Birthday Tablescape
Set the tone of your carnival party with a red and white tablecape.
Image: Rustic White Photography
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Carnival Birthday Animal Cracker Cupcakes
If you're short on time (or baking skills), just decorate plain cupcakes with frosted animal crackers for a carnival party idea that's sure to please.
Image: With Sprinkles on Top
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Carnival Birthday Ball in a Basket Game
A palette and some apple baskets are all you need to create this carnival favorite.
Image: Kara's Party Ideas
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Carnival Birthday Cookies
Fondant-topped cookies are the perfect backdrop for edible elephants and tents.
Image: Karo's Fun Land
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Carnival Birthday Clown Popcorn Pops
A real clown can be scary for kiddos, but these Bozo-topped popcorn pops are sure to be a hit with the tikes.
Image: Lady Behind the Curtain
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Carnival Birthday Treats
Red and white striped favor bags make a theme-appropriate treat sack for pretzels and other carnival food.
Image: Karo's Fun Land
