Kids love carnivals. (And I do too!) They’re a great way to get out, have some fun, and make for a great party theme. They’re filled with rides, food, games, prizes, and entertainment. There’s literally something for everyone. OMG! I’m getting overly excited just thinking about it.
But, let’s be honest here, planning a carnival themed event can also be overwhelming and chaotic – just like me. So, to help you out, I’ve put together a list of carnival activities for kids that will keep them entertained.
Balloon Pop
This game is great for younger children as it does not require any skill or dexterity. Simply blow up balloons and pop them with a stick, or their feet. You can even make a contest out of it.
Fishing Game
This one is a bit more hands-on, but kids always love it! Fill a small pool or tub with water and add some plastic fish. Give each child a fishing pole (can be a stick with a string and magnet attached) and let them try to “catch” as many fish as they can.
Skeeball
This carnival classic is a favorite among kids and adults alike. Who doesn’t love trying to get that little ball into the highest scoring hole?
Dunking Booth
This is my personal favorite. All you need is a small pool or tub, some water, and a stool. Place the stool on top of the pool or tub and have someone sit on it. Then, have someone else throw balls at the target.
Inflatable Cash Grab Money Machine
This is a great carnival game for kids because it’s safe, easy, and fun! All you need is an inflatable money machine and some fake money. Put the fake money in the machine and let the kids try to grab as much as they can.
Zorbing Balls
If you have a large grassy area, this is another personal fav of mine. All you need is an inflatable ball and some space. Let the kids get inside the balls and roll around. They’ll have a blast!
Whack-A-Mole
This carnival game is perfect for kids who love to hit things. All you need is a Whack-A-Mole board and a soft mallet. Let the kids take turns hitting the moles as they pop up.
Mini Basketball Shootable Inflatable
This is for the kiddos who love basketball. All you need is an inflatable mini basketball hoop and some balls. Let the kids shoot as many baskets as they can in a set amount of time.
Whack-A-Mole
This carnival game is perfect for kids who love to hit things. All you need is a Whack-A-Mole board and a soft mallet. Let the kids take turns hitting the moles as they pop up.
Face Painting
No carnival is complete without face painting. It’s a carnival classic that kids always love. You can have a few different designs for the kids to choose from or let them pick their own.
Twister
This game is ideal for children who enjoy getting active. All you need is a Twister mat and some balls. Allow the children to spin the wheel and follow the directions in turns. Make it even more interesting with an inflatable twister board.
Mini Golf
All you need is a mini golf course and some clubs. Let the kids putt their way through the course and have a blast.
Balloon Animals
Another carnival classic are balloon animals. You can find someone to make them on-site or make them yourself ahead of time. Either way, the kids will love them.
Bean Bag Toss:
Set up a series of targets (can be anything from buckets to cardboard cutouts) and let the kids take turns tossing beanbags at them. Again, be sure to have plenty of prizes for the winners.
Magic Show
Kids love seeing things that they don’t understand and a magic show is the perfect way to do that.
Ring Toss
This is one of the most popular carnival games for kids. The object of this game is to throw rings at a target.
Piñata
Old faithful, you really can’t go wrong with a Piñata. Fill one with candy and small toys, then let the kids take turns hitting it until it breaks open. Be sure to have a blindfold on hand to make it more fair (and more fun!
Petting Zoo
If you have the space, a petting zoo is always a carnival favorite. Kids love getting up close and personal with animals.
Balloon Darts
This classic carnival game is always a hit with kids! Simply blow up some balloons and hang them from a string or dowel. Then, let the kids take turns throwing darts at the balloons. Be sure to have plenty of prizes on hand for the winners!
Cotton Candy
Last but not least, no carnival is complete without cotton candy. It’s a carnival classic for a reason – it’s delicious!
So there you have it, carnival games that are sure to please any crowd. Now all you need is some good weather and you’re all set! Have fun!`
What carnival games are your favorites? Let us know in the comments below!
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