Looking for a party theme that pairs laidback fun with plenty of photo ops? Carnival theme parties are perfect for everything from kids’ birthdays to high-end corporate events. Trust us (and Stormi Webster), this theme delights guests of all ages.
The best carnival theme party ideas recreate the festive atmosphere of a real-life fair. This family-friendly party theme engages guests with carnival rides, games, and riveting entertainment. The food is as much of a draw with airy cotton candy, buttery popcorn, fried corn dogs, and more.
Keep reading to discover our favorite carnival theme ideas. Make sure to save your favorite photos to an Idea Slate by clicking on the heart in the top right corner. You can then share your custom Slate with your event planner for seamless collaboration. With PartySlate, planning a perfectly themed party has never been easier.
1. Welcome Guests With a Ticket of Admittance
Colts Neck, NJ
Step right up with a ticket of admittance. This carnival-themed kid’s birthday party, planned by Michael Marielli Events, gave guests a sneak peek into this pastel-colored celebration with ticket-style invitations in cotton candy pink, popcorn yellow, and sky blue hues.
2. Set the Scene With Striped Carnival Tenting
Lyme, CT
Red and white tenting, provided by PEAK Event Services, fully immersed guests into a carnival atmosphere. Make sure to check out other photo-worthy details from this outdoor celebration such as stilted greeters, carnival games, and a Ferris wheel ride.
3. Pass the Popcorn (Figuratively & Literally)
Houston, TX
A circus tent photo op, crowned with buttery-gold popcorn balloons by That Balloon Girl, kept employees posing at this corporate event in Houston. This backdrop looked good enough to eat — so luckily, A La Carte Events & Catering was onsite to deliver the real thing with a vintage popcorn maker.
4. Wow Guests With a Ferris Wheel Ride
Lyme, CT
Create a “wow” moment with a Ferris wheel ride. Event planner Lifetime Events By Jacqueline made sure guests at this carnival-themed graduation party enjoyed epic views of the celebration from above — taking in sights such as trapeze artists and carnival games.
No permit? No problem. See how Styles of MH designed a custom Ferris wheel design for a balloon-decked photo op at this carnival-themed birthday party.
5. Make It Memorable With a Merry-Go-Round
Irvine, CA
The Perfect Party planned the perfect kid’s birthday party, indeed, with a giant carousel ride. Make sure to also check out the pop-up candy store and carnival bites like corn on the cob by 24 Carrots Catering and Events.
6. Cue the Carnival Acts & Entertainment
Los Angeles, CA
This showstopping circus performance, planned by Bluebell Events, featured captivating circus acts by Cirque Berzerk Productions. Of course, hoopers and acrobats were just a few of the talented performers on-site. Click to see how water and fire dancers took entertainment to the next level, as well.
7. Invite a Little Friendly Competition With Carnival Games
New York, NY
This family carnival kept everyone engaged with carnival games by Decco By Party Up Productions and rentals by Party Rental Ltd.. Fun activities included a custom dunk tank, 60-foot-long obstacle course, fortune teller booth, and “Pie in the Face” station. A family reunion has never looked so inviting.
8. Satiate Guests With Carnival Comfort Foods
Scottsdale, AZ
This carnival-themed corporate holiday party made sure guests had enough energy to enjoy a glow-in-the-dark Ferris wheel, house of mirrors, and live band. M Culinary Concepts kept everyone refreshed with miniature corn dog bites, pretzels on a stick, and other carnival-style treats.
9. Keep It Sweet With Carnival Treats
Stamford, CT
ONTHEMARC Events reminds us that it’s not a meal without the final course. Dessert at this carnival-themed kid’s birthday party beckoned guests with Barnum’s Animal Crackers, clown cake pops, a merry-go-round cake, and other scrumptious treats.
10. Keep the Party Going After Dark
Los Angeles, CA
This Halloween carnival soirée came to life after sunset. Vintage string lights brought a ghostly glow to modern red-and-white carnival tenting and balloon tunnel by Balloon and Paper. Make sure to see how A-Max Entertainment enthralled guests with an acrobatic performance alongside carnival games.
People Also Ask…
What food should I serve at a carnival birthday party?
Catering is an essential extension of your unique party theme. For a carnival-themed birthday party, we recommend elevating classic carnival bites as passed apps. Some of our favorite ideas include:
- Mini corn dog bites
- Savory ice cream cones
- Pretzel on a stick
- Pigs in a blanket
For more catering ideas, check out the hottest catering trends taking over this year. You’ll find everything from sliders with a twist to local beers on tap. Make sure to save any of your favorite ideas to an Idea Slate by clicking on the heart in the top right corner. You can share these ideas directly with your chosen caterer.
Lastly, head to PartySlate’s curated vendor directory to find the best caterers near you. Use the filters to narrow your search by location, event type, services, and more.
What are some types of carnival games to include in my celebration?
Games are easily the centerpiece of any carnival. Make sure guests of all ages are engaged with on-theme activities. Consider creating the focal point of your celebration around an epic activity such as a merry-go-round or Ferris wheel. From there, include various gaming stations such as fortune teller booths for the adults and dunk tanks for the kids.
Use PartySlate’s curated directory to find gaming rentals as well as entertainment acts that range from magicians to stilt walkers. Use the filters to narrow your search by location and more.
Where can I find vendors for my carnival-themed party?
PartySlate is your go-to resource for assembling your team of party vendors. We always recommend starting with an event planner. Your event planner will ensure your planning process (and day-of celebration) is stress-free.
From there, use PartySlate to find the other key members of your team. You can visit our curated vendor directory or click on the vendors below for more information:
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ONTHEMARC Events
We love how this Connecticut-based caterer takes great pride in their work and has an extensive repertoire of cultural cuisines available for your event. ONTHEMARC Events curates a culinary experience for their clients that will enhance any special event and wow guests. photographer: Federico Photography