Step right up to a classic, vintage carnival themed party!
My cutie nephew, Stefan, just turned two this past June and to celebrate his parents planned this fun, carnival themed party.
I love summer because I get to entertain more often. I also love the ease of outdoor entertaining, especially when kids are involved. The great thing about this theme is that it can be as simple or elaborate as you choose, and is always a hit with kids and grown-ups too! I had a great time wandering around snapping photos of all the fun at this backyard birthday.
Décor:
A potting table was transformed into a treat station with fresh, hot popcorn, sweet slushies and candy store jars filled with sweet treats and dime-store toys. Striped paper straws, jars of candy store treats, brightly colored balloons, polka dots and pinwheels created a festive atmosphere.
Fun & Games:
Games are always a popular part of any Carnival themed party and this party included lots of fun to keep guests entertained. Classic egg races, bean-bag toss, ring toss and pin-the-tail on the donkey and a piñata were a big hit.
The kids also had a great time posing for photos with the muscle man, bikini lady and the crazy clown props created by my daughter.
Party Food:
Guests loved filling their tummies with the carnival treats, mini-burgers and sodas.
Invitation idea:
A string of carnival tickets ties with bakers twine and a tag inviting guests to your backyard carnival would be a simple, fun invitation.
Favor Bags:
Easy and fun! Guests can assemble treat bags using the tickets they win from games or just let everyone pick from the jars of treats and dime-store toys.
Pick Fair on Etsy sells some great packaging and fun decorations for parties. These milk cap cupcake toppers (bottom left) are so sweet and evoke an era of simple country fairs and carnivals, don’t you think? The ice cream bar sleeves (top left) are perfect to hold your icy treats or to fill with candy.
Inspired by Stefan’s party? Then I hope you will enjoy the printable I’ve created for you to download. You can use this to create tags, cupcake toppers, and party flags.
Have a happy summer full of outdoor fun!