Circus Birthday Party

Updated August 21, 2013
Credit: Jennifer Koehler

Send in the clowns! Break out your inner Ringmaster and host a Big-Top event to celebrate your birthday boy or girl with this Circus Birthday Party. Our hostess with the mostess Jennifer Koehler tells you how.

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Set the Scene

Credit: Jennifer Koehler

When planning your spread, consider your theme and the time of day. For a midafternoon party, plan to have snacks and cake, as well as a few drink options. If you host your party over lunch or in the evening, plan heavier items to satisfy everyone.

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Spread the Word

Credit: Jennifer Koehler; Invitation by lemonadepaperie

Invite guests to the party by sending invitations that include tickets for your attractions. The tiny ticket on the bottom of the invite pulls the theme together.

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In Case of Rain...

Credit: Jennifer Koehler

If your party's outside, don't forget about having a rain plan. If your yard can't hold a big-top inspired tent, then alert guests to a rain date by including a cute note along with their invitation.

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A Big-Top Cake

Credit: Jennifer Koehler; Cake by Jackie Treschl

Use your too-cute cake as a centerpiece that adds to your decor before the guests arrive and dig in. The fondant elephant balancing on the ball is a classic circus moment, and the red stripes bring back memories of nights under the tent.

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A Tasty Treat

Credit: Jennifer Koehler

Serve a treat that's easy to make and fun to look at. Dipped marshmallows add a sweet spot to your spread without being messy. Adorn the sticks with thin ribbon that matches your theme, and pick bright candy melts for a pop of color.

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Lick a Lollipop

Credit: Jennifer Koehler

Bring the fun of the circus to your backyard with cute lollipops. Make yours in the shape of your favorite circus animal, or freeform, if you prefer. Just match the colors to your party's theme.

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Clown Noses

Credit: Jennifer Koehler

Honk honk! Keep the theme going by serving "clown noses" for a sweet treat. Pair with pint-sized party bags so that guests can take home these treats as favors.

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Say Cheese!

Credit: Jennifer Koehler

Invite guests to get decked out in Ringmaster's hats, clown noses, and fake barbells by creating a photo booth. Set up your digital camera with a hand held timer to let guests control the fun. Bonus: You get a copy of all the pictures! If you prefer, suggest guests take snaps with their own cameras.

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Clowning Around

Credit: Jennifer Koehler

Transform store-bought cupcakes into theme-ready treats by adding theme-ready wrappers and too-cute cutouts. Prefer to make your own cupcakes? Try our Lemonade Cupcake recipe topped with cream cheese frosting.

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