Games, balloons, and bright colors -- a carnival is just like a birthday party, but better! So why not invite kids to a carnival-themed party in your backyard or at a local park? Any supplies you don't already have at home are inexpensive and easy to find. Decorate in midway colors, play old-fashioned games, and serve carnival staples: lemonade, hot dogs, popcorn, and store-bought cotton candy. For the booths, raid your linen closet for colorful sheets and lightweight blankets; hang them from ropes suspended between trees.

If trees are scarce, stick volleyball or tent poles in the ground (in a public place, check with officials first). Older siblings can don utility aprons and man the booths, or you might ask a few of the other parents to help. At day's end, each child will leave with souvenirs and memories of a great day at the fair.