We have really found the ptotoday forums on carnival planning helpful. Our elementary school has participated in a Halloween-themed carnival for many years and we'd like to share some ideas on planning & executing!
Jim Conti & Sons in Louisville, KY is a great company to work with. We have used them for our Santa Shop for 2 years and love them. They are very friendly, considerate and VERY helpful. We've never used them for a carnival so I don't know about pricing. They are worth a look if it's not too far for you. Just my .02!
Originally posted by Ti: Well I live in Akron, Ohio and I wanted to rent the games does anyone know where to rent the games from? I have been looking and the places are saying 600-900 a game. That's way too expensive. I am not looking for impressive games just something to rent for fun.
There are small companies that come out and provide the games and prizes for you for a cost. If you have no games they are worth it. It helps if you can find a company that will give you perks with the carnival that you don't have to pay for. Call around to other schools pto's and see if anyone has used a company like this and can refer you.
We are going hopefully get local businesses to sponsor the games so we won't have to pay for them . If they can't pay for games then they can sponsor prizes for the kids. We would charge a small ticket fee for the games. We also would have an auction/rally prizes and sell food that we hope too can be donated.