8 Fun Circus-Themed Event Ideas

Jenny Berg
April 15, 2013

The Starlight Children's Foundation hosted its Starlight Gala, sponsored by Toys "R" Us, at Toronto's Fairmont Royal York Hotel on April 6. With the goal of raising money for sick or injured children, organizers created a whimsical bash filled with circus-inspired ideas. From flowers in a popcorn container vase to carnival games and a Ferris wheel filled with cupcakes, here's a look at how the foundation breathed vibrant life into a popular theme—which, incidentally, is perfectly suited to summertime functions, including corporate parties, picnics, and more.

Jugglers flanked the step-and-repeat, and guests could have their photos snapped with the circus performers.
Jugglers flanked the step-and-repeat, and guests could have their photos snapped with the circus performers.
Photo: George Pimentel Photography
The evening's theme was spelled out—quite literally—on a giant drop-down screen that appeared onstage during the program.
The evening's theme was spelled out—quite literally—on a giant drop-down screen that appeared onstage during the program.
Photo: George Pimentel Photography
Dinner tables were topped with miniature Ferris wheels that held cupcakes topped with colorful frosting.
Dinner tables were topped with miniature Ferris wheels that held cupcakes topped with colorful frosting.
Photo: George Pimentel Photography
Fluffy white flowers spilled out of striped containers that were shaped like classic popcorn boxes.
Fluffy white flowers spilled out of striped containers that were shaped like classic popcorn boxes.
Photo: George Pimentel Photography
The cocktail reception had the look of a carnival midway, and guests could play games to win plush prizes.
The cocktail reception had the look of a carnival midway, and guests could play games to win plush prizes.
Photo: George Pimentel Photography
Guests could twirl their own sticks of pastel cotton candy.
Guests could twirl their own sticks of pastel cotton candy.
Photo: George Pimentel Photography
Evoking a child's dress-up box, a photo booth had props including royal crowns, feathery fans, and star-topped wands.
Evoking a child's dress-up box, a photo booth had props including royal crowns, feathery fans, and star-topped wands.
Photo: George Pimentel Photography
At $25 a pop, Starlight Bears were available for purchase. The cuddly toys helped contribute to the evening's overall take of $450,000.
At $25 a pop, Starlight Bears were available for purchase. The cuddly toys helped contribute to the evening's overall take of $450,000.
Photo: George Pimentel Photography
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