School carnivals and field days are big fundraisers and even bigger fun. This checklist helps PTAs and school staff in Frisco, Prosper, Plano, McKinney, Allen and across DFW plan school carnival rentals and activities.
Start With the Basics
- Confirm the date, rain plan and space with the school.
- Set a fundraising goal and ticket prices.
- Check district rules on vendors, insurance and food.
Carnival Game Ideas
- Cornhole, giant tower and 4-in-a-row
- Basketball pong and golf pong
- Prize wheel for raffle winners
- Face painting and tattoos
- Teacher dunk-tank style challenges (check safety rules)
Concessions That Raise Money
Popcorn, cotton candy and snow cone machines are low-cost, high-profit favorites. Add a beverage cooler and pre-packaged snacks.
Shade, Seating and Stage
- Pop-up and frame tents for booths and seating
- Tables and chairs for food areas
- A small stage and PA system for announcements and performances
- Misting fans for spring and early fall heat
Safety Rentals
- Barricades to separate parking and play areas
- Cones and stanchions for lines
- First aid station and a lost-child meeting point
Volunteer Plan
- One lead per zone (games, food, tickets, stage)
- Shifts of 60–90 minutes
- Setup and teardown crews — or book event helpers
Sample Rental List for 400 Students and Families
- Six 10×10 pop-up tents for booths
- One 20×40 tent for the food area
- Ten 8-ft tables and 80 chairs
- Popcorn, cotton candy and two snow cone machines
- Eight yard games plus a prize wheel
- Barricades and cones
FAQ
What sells best at a school carnival? Snow cones, cotton candy and popcorn are usually top sellers.
How far ahead should a PTA book? Six to eight weeks for spring carnivals.
Plan Your Event With Dallas Party Rentals
Add rentals and event services to your cart, pick your dates on our booking calendar and check out online — or call 469-909-0360.
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School carnival rentals: Next Steps
Ready to put these school carnival rentals tips to work? Browse our party rental catalog for tents, tables, chairs, linens and decor, and see the cities we cover on our delivery areas page.
For more ideas, read the rest of our party planning blog, or explore more inventory from our partner 360° Party Rentals. To reserve, add items to your rental cart or call 469-909-0360.