We are in the midst of what has inadvertently become an annual “bust the winter blues” staycation. Andy’s been off all week, and I joined him starting on Wednesday. Opting to save money instead, we set aside an idea to visit Wisconsin Dells and decided to stick close to home. However, that doesn’t mean we have to live life as usual, does it?
The other day, Drew requested corn dogs for dinner. He’d recently had them from the kids’ menu at a restaurant and has been mildly obsessed lately. And before I even calculated the potential complications, I blurted out, “LET’S HAVE A CARNIVAL TONIGHT!!!!”
So one trip to the thrift store later, we had a carnival. My Dad came over to enjoy the games. I of course did a bit of Googling and saw the cutest carnival parties EVER, but in the end I’m glad I decided not to craft adorable backdrops and decor. The whole spontaneous nature was kept intact by keeping it low-key. Other than the time we spent at the thrift store, the whole thing was pulled together in the time that the frozen corn dogs cooked in the oven. 
If you’re feeling especially inspired though, Martha Stewart’s carnival party was SO cute: http://www.marthastewart.com/275410/how-to-throw-a-kids-carnival-party/@center/276964/60-days-summer.
Anyway, here’s the carnival. (Another bonus of vacation days? Time to edit video!)
I confess, I still really like corn dogs:) I’ve taken to buying chicken corn dogs so they are “healthy.”
Love this post. Wish I could’ve gone.
Such a fun idea!
Looks like so much much fun!! What a great idea, might try this next time the grandkids come for a visit (I have a tub full of beannies). Darling kidos, love their expessions, they were into it!!! Thanks for sharing!
Kelsey,I just found your blog. I love your carnival idea. My girls are almost 5 and 3 and I think they would eat this up. Especially the beanie baby prizes. Thanks for inspiring me!
Hi Emily! I probably wouldn’t have recognized your name if I hadn’t seen your comment on Shannon’s post about homework the other day! Hope you are well.