How to Plan a School Carnival in Sonoma County: Rentals, Games & Budget Tips

Planning a school carnival in Sonoma County—or nearby areas—can feel like a big project. But with the right plan, it’s one of the best ways to bring your school community together while raising funds. Whether you’re part of a PTA, a principal looking to create a memorable event, or a youth pastor organizing a church carnival, a little preparation goes a long way.

Here are five key steps (plus insider tips) to make your school carnival stress-free, fun, and budget-friendly.

Step 1: Choose the Right Rentals

One of the easiest ways to take your event from “basic” to unforgettable is by renting high-quality attractions. Parents and kids alike will remember the big-ticket items.

1. Bounce Houses & Inflatables – Perfect for younger students, inflatables are always the #1 draw. Search for school carnival rentals Sonoma or school event inflatables Napa to see local options.
2. Giant Slides & Obstacle Courses – Keep older kids engaged while spreading out the crowds.
3. Carnival Games – Ring toss, giant Jenga, balloon darts, and spin-the-wheel add that classic fair feel.

Pro Tip: Pair each rental with a ticket system—kids can play as many games as they want, but charge extra tickets for premium inflatables or rides.

Important Note on School District Rules: Some Sonoma and Napa school districts have restrictions on what can be rented directly through the PTA. In certain cases, inflatables that kids can enter (like bounce houses or obstacle courses) may not be allowed. If that’s the case, inflatable games—such as basketball toss, soccer shootouts, or giant connect-four—are a perfect alternative. On the other hand, if bookings and rentals are made through another organization outside the school (such as a church group, booster club, or parent foundation), those restrictions usually don’t apply, giving you access to the full range of bounce houses, slides, and interactive inflatables.

Step 2: Add Fundraising-Friendly Games

A carnival is about fun, but it’s also one of the best PTA fundraiser opportunities of the year. Certain games not only entertain but also maximize revenue:

1. Cake Walks – Always a hit with families (donated baked goods = pure profit).
2. Photo Booths/Face Painters – Capture memories while raising funds.
3. Prize Wheels – Sponsored by local businesses to offset costs.
4. Sports Challenges – Football toss, basketball shootouts, or soccer kicks.

Many local PTAs in Sonoma County and Napa boost fundraising by involving community sponsors—local grocery stores, pizza shops, or coffee houses—who provide prizes in exchange for recognition at the event.

Step 3: Budget Smart (Without Cutting Fun)

Budgeting is often the trickiest part of planning, but you don’t need to overspend to make your carnival successful.

1. Start with Rentals: They’ll be your biggest expense, so lock those in first.
2. Ask for Sponsorships: Local businesses love supporting schools—they get visibility, you save money.
3. Bundle Rentals: Companies like Astro Jump of Sonoma County offer package deals for inflatables and carnival games, stretching your budget further.
4. Pre-Sell Tickets: Let families buy tickets in advance to build momentum and predict turnout.

Step 4: Logistics & Volunteers

Even the best attractions won’t matter without enough hands on deck.

1. Volunteers: Recruit parents, older students, and church youth groups to staff games and ticket booths.
2. Layout: Spread out big rentals like slides and obstacle courses to prevent bottlenecks.
3. Safety First: Make sure your rental company handles set-up, safety checks, and carries insurance.

Step 5: Promote Your Event

Your hard work deserves a big turnout, so promotion is key.

1. Flyers: Send flyers home with students at least two weeks in advance.
2. Email & Social Media: Use Facebook, Instagram, and school newsletters to post countdowns.
3. Community Calendars: Submit your event to local sites like Santa Rosa Parks & Recreation, Rohnert Park Parks & Recreation, City of Cotati, and Petaluma Recreation. These backlinks not only boost visibility but also improve your event’s online presence.

Final Thoughts

Planning a school carnival in Sonoma County doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right rentals, budget strategy, and community support, your PTA or church can host an event that kids will talk about all year—while raising important funds for programs and activities.

Ready to start planning? Contact Astro Jump of Sonoma County today for bounce houses, slides, obstacle courses, and carnival game rentals tailored for school events in Sonoma or Napa County.