With all its whimsy and wonder, it’s no wonder that kids are drawn to the circus. If your little one is a lion tamer at heart, make their next birthday extra-memorable with a circus-themed birthday bash that will rival an afternoon under the big top.
Invitations
First, let your child’s friends know that the circus is coming to town! You can find a free printable template online or look for premade invitations at your local party supply store.
Setting the Scene
Welcome party guests to the greatest show on earth with a bag of popcorn and a red foam nose so that they’re ready to “clown around.”
Decorations
Transforming your home into a circus tent is easier than you might think! A few plastic tablecloths or streamers can turn any room into a big top (as seen on Paper Crush). Add a few buntings and plenty of brightly coloured balloons and your circus is almost complete!
For an extra-special touch, be sure to include a few classic circus animals in your decor. Vintage circus posters are perfect for an older child’s party, while cute stuffed animals are great for wee ones. Lions, elephants, monkeys—the more the merrier!
Games/Entertainment
Kids will have a blast playing classic carnival-style games for a chance to win tickets that can be exchanged for small prizes from the prize board at the end of the party. Here are a few easy DIY games that little guests are guaranteed to love:
Want to take the party to the next level? Set up a face-painting station with a selection of temporary tattoos. A simple photo booth is sure to be a hit, too. Gather up balloons, fake moustaches, clown noses and wigs, and a ringmaster top hat to use as props. You could even splurge and hire a clown to entertain the crowd and make balloon animals as a fun take-home gift.
>>Find clowns for children’s parties in the Greater Toronto Area.
Food
No circus-themed party would be complete without some classic big-top eats!
You can’t go wrong with popcorn for snacking (bonus points if you can snag a popcorn cart from a party-rental company for the event), along with some peanuts in the shell (as long as allergies aren’t a concern), and animal crackers. Hot dogs with all the fixin’s are perfect for feeding a crowd, and can be washed down with some homemade lemonade.
For dessert, whip up simple vanilla and chocolate birthday cupcakes topped with icing, sprinkles, and tufts of delicious cotton candy.
Loot Bags
Don’t forget the loot! Send your guests on their way with a bag of circus snack mix and a set of juggling balls or a hula-hoop to help them practice their circus performing skills at home.
READ MORE LIKE THIS:
Do you have a pink-wearing, princess-loving little one? Learn how to throw the perfect princess party for her and her friends.
If pegged legs, eyepatches, and skulls and crossbones are more likely to float your child’s boat, give them the perfect pirate birthday party or else risk walking the plank!
Make sure you have everything you need for your little one’s big day with the ultimate birthday party planning checklist.
Sign up for our newsletters to get parenting and family fun articles delivered to you!
