Planning a circus-themed birthday party? Make it unforgettable with fun and easy carnival games like a classic ball toss, mini golf and lucky duck. These exciting games keep kids entertained and add to the festive atmosphere.
Bring the excitement of the carnival to your next party with this DIY Ball Toss Game! This simple and fun game is perfect for kids and adults alike, making it a great addition to birthday parties, school events, or backyard celebrations. Follow this easy guide to create your own carnival-style ball toss game and keep your guests entertained for hours!
Supplies
- Large cardboard or foam board
- Red and white striped wrapping paper or paint
- Blue construction paper or paint
- Yellow star stickers or cutouts
- White plastic or paper cups (at least six)
- Red marker or printed number labels (10, 25, etc.)
- Small lightweight balls (ping pong balls work great)
- Glue or double-sided tape
- Scissors
- Table for setup
Instructions
Cover a large cardboard or foam board with red and white striped wrapping paper or paint to create a carnival tent effect. Cut out a large rectangle of blue paper or paint a blue section in the center. Add yellow star stickers or cutouts to enhance the circus theme. Use bold, colorful lettering to write “Ball Toss” and a fun sign at the top, like “Step Right Up!” Use white cups and number them with red marker (e.g., 10, 25, etc.) to indicate different point values. Arrange the cups in a triangular or semi-circle formation on a table. Secure the cups to the table with double-sided tape or glue to prevent them from tipping over. Place the game board on a flat surface, ensuring it is visible to players. Position the cups in front of the board, spaced evenly. Provide small, lightweight balls for tossing.
Game Rules
Players take turns tossing balls into the cups. Each cup has a point value, and players try to score the highest total. You can set a time limit or give each player a set number of balls per round. Award small prizes for reaching different score levels.
This DIY Mini Golf Carnival Game is an excellent way to add fun and excitement to any gathering. It’s budget-friendly, easy to assemble, and sure to be a hit with guests of all ages!
Supplies
- Large cardboard box or wooden board (to serve as the base)
- Colored paper or paint (to decorate)
- Scissors or a craft knife
- Markers or number stickers (for scoring)
- Small plastic or foam balls (ping pong balls work great!)
- Toy golf clubs or DIY clubs (made from pool noodles and wooden dowels)
- Tape or glue
- Banners or decorations (optional for a carnival feel)
Instructions
Cut out three holes in the cardboard or wooden base. Make each hole a different size and assign a point value to each one (e.g., 3 points for the largest hole, 5 points for the medium hole, and 10 points for the smallest hole). Paint or cover the box with colorful paper to make it visually appealing. Write or place number stickers above each hole to indicate the point values. Place the decorated board against a sturdy surface or stand it up at a slight angle so the balls can roll in easily. Set a designated hitting spot a few feet away from the board. Add decorations like carnival banners or flags to enhance the game area. Each player takes turns hitting a ball towards the holes using a golf club. The goal is to get the ball into one of the holes to earn points. Players can take a set number of turns (e.g., 3 tries per round) and add up their total score. The player with the highest score at the end wins!
For a classic game that kids of all ages will love try the lucky duck game. It’s easy to set up, requires minimal supplies, and guarantees lots of fun.
Supplies
- A large tub, basin, or kiddie pool filled with water
- Small rubber ducks (enough to float in the tub)
- Permanent marker or waterproof stickers
- Prizes for winners
- A sign with game instructions
Instructions
Use a permanent marker or waterproof stickers to mark the bottom of some (or all) ducks with numbers, colors, or symbols that correspond to different prizes. Fill the Tub – Add enough water so the ducks can float freely. Place the ducks in the water and swirl them around to ensure they are shuffled. Assign different prizes based on the markings under the ducks. For example, a star might mean a big prize, while a number could determine the level of reward. Place a sign with instructions so players know how to participate.
How to Play
Each player picks a duck from the water.
Flip it over to see if there is a marking.
If the duck has a special mark, the player wins a corresponding prize!
Ducks are returned to the tub for the next player.
Game Variations
Timed Challenge: Set a timer and let kids pick as many ducks as they can within a time limit.
Number Match: Assign numbers to ducks and let kids match them to a prize chart.
Floating Maze: Add small obstacles in the water, making it trickier to pick a duck.
Did you make the ring toss, can toss, and 3 in a row games or did you purchase them?
It was a mix of both really. The bowls and jars can be bought at craft stores or the dollar store. And the decorations can be handmade with cardboard draped with circus wrapping paper.