12 Unique Carnival Party Ideas (2024)

Looking for some exciting carnival party ideas? At Peerspace, we get it! There’s something about the atmosphere at a carnival that inspires good times. Maybe it’s the games, the rides, or the food (preferably on a stick). Or maybe it’s the combination of everything that creates a certain kind of magic.

And if you want to capture a little carnival magic for your next party or event, you’re in the right place. Keep reading to discover some of our favorite carnival party ideas to make your day special. 

1. Set up carnival booths at a carnival-themed venue

Every carnival needs some engaging booths with games. Balloon pops, spinning wheels, guessing games, and beanbag tosses are all carnie staples. Create a list of some of your favorite carnival booths and attractions, and think of ways to incorporate them into your carnival party.

If you need space to set up all of your booths, keep an eye out for Peerspace party venues that just happen to be carnival-inspired. For instance, our party people in Los Angeles can book this carnival-themed 1940s bar and performance venue in Hollywood. It provides you with space for nearly 300 guests and comes equipped with amazing carnival features.

2. Chow down at a food truck

Food trucks are a common sight at many modern carnivals. Their inventive menus fit right at home into the novelty of a carnival day. Plus, they look perfect between booths and can offer restaurant-style food without taking up space.

Plenty of rentable venues come with their own food trucks on-site, like this outdoor venue in Miami, FL. The venue is also home to a performance stage where you can put our next carnival party idea to good use. 

3. Hire musicians and other performers to entertain the crowd

This carnival party idea helps you set the mood for your event. Musical acts are right at home at carnivals and fairs. They can enhance the atmosphere and help your guests feel relaxed and welcome. Thumbtack is an excellent resource to find local performers in your area, though you can also ask your Peerspace host when you book an event venue with us!

Looking for a spacious, private, outdoor venue for your carnival gathering? Then learn how to rent a backyard for a party!

4. Hang out with animals at a carnival petting zoo 

Carnival party ideas like this will help bring a cute element to your event. Try hosting your carnival at an outdoor petting zoo where guests can spend time with animals.

This Peerspace petting zoo is home to alpacas, sheep, goats, donkeys, chickens, and even horses. It can help bring a “county fair” vibe to the party and allow your guests to get closer to nature as they enjoy the company of farm animals. 

5. Enjoy a rooftop screening featuring carnival movies

Do you have a favorite movie that features a carnival or circus — like the spooky Carnival of Souls, or the modern musical The Greatest Showman? Why not air the movie at your carnival party to help set the tone? 

We’ve got you covered if you need a place to set up carnival booths alongside a projection screen. Check out this rooftop movie theater in Miami, FL. It’s already wildly colorful and provides tons of space, so even with your carnival theme, you won’t have to decorate much here! Check it out on Peerspace if you’re looking to throw a unique carnival party. 

6. Make a splash at a dunk tank 

Do you want to really make a splash at your event? This carnival party idea has you covered. 

Set up a dunk tank where guests can try their hand at dunking an unlucky individual. If you’re raising funds for charity or a special cause, then charging for throws is an excellent way to rack up funds. Just make sure that the dunkable person is on board with the idea beforehand! 

7. Snap pics at a photo booth with carnival props

While your guests are busy having a blast at your carnival party, they’ll want to capture memories to share. Setting up a photo booth with carnival-themed photo props can provide a designated spot for guests to capture snapshots of their day at the carnival. If you want to put a kitschy spin on it, try making a DIY photo cutout that reflects the theme of your carnival. 

8. Challenge your guests to a cornhole competition

Cornhole is a classic carnival-style game to pass the time. Plus, it brings out some competitive spirit in your guests – especially if prizes are involved.

You can find cornhole games online, make a DIY one to suit your theme, or rent a venue with the game included, like this urban farm in Seattle. It’s a spacious garden venue that can easily bring all your carnival party dreams to life.

9. Create your own Big Top with a handy tent

We’re taking a cue from circuses with this carnival party idea. If you want to channel the openness of an outdoor carnival but don’t want the confinement of an indoor space, a tent can offer the perfect middle ground. Tents can create a festive environment that feels exciting, fun, and welcoming for carnival games.

If you need help finding a tent in your area, keep an eye out for Peerspace outdoor event venues with spacious tents.

Speaking of tents, check out our favorite camping party ideas to enjoy with your outdoorsy buddies!

10. Pig out on hot, buttery popcorn

Popcorn is a quintessential carnival food. It’s easy to eat while you walk and talk and simple to hold in one hand while you play games. Plus, it can come in a full range of flavors, from savory to sweet, making it a versatile fair snack.

You can set up a popcorn stand at your carnival with pre-popped baggies for guests. Fresh popcorn and a day at the carnival? Yes, please! 

11. Fluff up and dish out sweet, sweet cotton candy 

What’s a carnival without cotton candy? This fluffy treat provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy a dessert that takes you straight back to your childhood days at the fair.

You can find cotton candy machines online or see if your Peerspace venue’s host can put you in touch with a rentable machine. Better yet – put a gourmet touch on this carnival treat by learning to make dragon’s breath, AKA traditional Chinese cotton candy. 

Looking for a cotton candy-inspired wonderland to host your carnival? Then check out this 1,200-square-foot cotton candy clouds and baddie Barbie dreamland in LA! It’s an amazing space that will make your guests’ jaws drop.

12. Host your carnival at a brewery for a unique setting and tasty drinks

If all this talk about food has you thirsty, don’t forget the drinks! If you want to put a more adult slant on your carnival event, consider hosting at a brewery where guests can learn how their favorite beverages come to life and enjoy carnival games with a refreshing brew in their hand. 

For instance, you can book this spacious and inviting downtown taproom in Tacoma, WA, and enjoy its delicious drinks in a fun atmosphere. Talk to the host about your carnival theme and see what they suggest in terms of decor and food and beverages!

It’s just one of many carnival party ideas you can make possible through Peerspace. 

Carnival party ideas: conclusion

We hope these carnival party ideas have you geared up and excited to throw your next themed event. As you can see, you can bring any of these ideas to life with ease by booking the perfect event venue through Peerspace. Between Peerspace’s sensational spaces and our dedicated hosts, your about to throw a party your guests will never forget!

Find unique party venues on Peerspace