How to Do a Centerpiece for a Carnival Birthday Party

Small, stuffed animals work well in a carnival centerpiece.

A carnival-themed birthday party engages a sense of wonder in children and adults. Bright colors, treats, stuffed animals and special booths create a carnival atmosphere. To do a carnival centerpiece requires using colors and decorative elements that bring the look of the carnival to your party. Make a centerpiece that will be the center of attention -- and give out treats and prizes from the centerpiece at the end of the party.

Things You'll Need

• Bright-colored tablecloth
• Scarf or table runner
• Crystal ball
• Stand for the crystal ball
• 2 small matching vases, 6 to 8 inches tall
• 1 or 2 bunches of fresh flowers or silk flowers
• Tarot cards (optional)
• 2 medium clear glass vases
• 1 to 2 bags of large, colorful gum balls
• Extra-large lollipops in bright pin wheel pattern, 1 for each guest
• Small, stuffed animals

Instructions

1. Cover the table with a bright tablecloth, such as a paisley print, wide carnival stripes or solid, red fabric. Drape a contrasting scarf or table runner vertically down the center of the table.

2. Center a stand for a crystal ball in the center of the table. Set the crystal ball on the stand.

3. Display fresh flowers, such as red geraniums or red roses, in two matching vases on each side of the crystal ball. Prop tarot cards on each side of each vase, if desired, to add to the carnival fortuneteller effect.

4. Center one medium-sized vase between the flower vase and each end of the table. Pour gum balls into the empty vases to fill them half way or more. Insert lollipops into the vases of gum balls, displaying them like bouquets of flowers, with the lollipops facing in all directions.

5. Line up small, stuffed animals between the flower vases and the lollipop vases. Alternate the stuffed animals so that every other animal faces the guests on the opposite side of the table.

Tips & Warnings

• Round stands sold for displaying small statues work for holding a crystal ball.

• Novelty retailers and gem and mineral dealers sell crystal balls.

• If the table for the birthday party is round, use a table riser or box covered with the scarf to raise the crystal ball and then display the vases and animals in a circle around the crystal ball.

• Omit the gum balls if the party is for very young children. Gum balls can present a choking hazard. Substitute rubber duckies or another age-appropriate toy and use larger vases to display them.

Resources

• University of Kentucky: Centerpieces and Table Decorations
• Good Housekeeping: Toddler to Teen Party Planner: Gypsy Carnival