CARNIVAL-CIRCUS PARTY CHECKLIST
- Invitations
- Themed invitations (digital or printed)
- RSVP tracking list
- Optional: include a ticket-style design or dress code (“Come dressed as your favorite performer or animal”)
- Tableware
- Red-and-white striped or polka dot plates (dinner and dessert size)
- Matching napkins
- Themed cups (with circus prints or bright primary colors)
- Disposable utensils (forks, spoons, knives if needed)
- Striped paper straws
- Tablecloths (solid colors or circus-striped)
- Table centerpieces (popcorn buckets, mini circus animals, balloons)
- Decorations
- Balloon arch or columns in red, yellow, and blue
- “Welcome to the Carnival” entrance banner
- Hanging decorations (streamers, bunting, paper lanterns)
- Photo booth backdrop and props
- Game station signs
- Circus animal or performer cutouts
- Canopy tent or faux “Big Top” entrance
- Directional signs for snacks, games, photo booth, restrooms
- Food & Beverage Supplies
- Concession-style food trays or baskets
- Snack containers (popcorn boxes, cotton candy bags)
- Condiment containers (if serving hot dogs, nachos, etc.)
- Beverage dispensers or pitchers
- Cooler with ice (for drinks or snow cones)
- Themed food labels or tent cards
- Cake or cupcake stand
- Games & Activities
- Game supplies (ring toss, bean bags, rubber ducks, etc.)
- Prize table or bins
- Punch cards or tickets for games
- Face painting station supplies
- Balloon animal station or artist area
- Craft table with circus-themed activities
- Relay race or performer challenge setup
- Music playlist or speaker system
- Party Favors / Goodie Bags
- Striped or circus-themed favor bags
- Small toys (clown noses, stickers, finger puppets)
- Candy or snacks (animal crackers, lollipops, cotton candy)
- Coloring books or activity pages
- Thank-you tag or label on each bag
- Talent & Rentals (if applicable)
- Confirmed entertainers (clown, magician, balloon artist, etc.)
- Tables and chairs
- Tent/canopy rental
- Bounce house or inflatable
- Popcorn/cotton candy/snow cone machine rental
- Photo booth equipment
- Generator (if needed for outdoor power)
- Safety & Cleanup
- First-aid kit
- Hand sanitizer stations or wipes
- Trash and recycling bins
- Extra paper towels and napkins
- Cleaning supplies (broom, wipes, disposable gloves)
- Pack-up boxes for leftover supplies
- Day-of Essentials
- Camera or phone with charger
- Shot list for photos
- Guest list and name tags (optional)
- Extra batteries (for toys, lights, or machines)
- Event timeline or activity schedule