10 November 2026 - Planning a School Christmas Fair? 7 Ways to Make It Extra Special

School Christmas fairs are one of the highlights of the festive season, bringing together pupils, parents, teachers and the local community for a little Christmas magic.

But if you're helping to organise one, you'll know there's quite a lot to think about!

From keeping children entertained to creating a festive atmosphere, finding the right activities can make all the difference.

Whether you're planning a small primary school celebration or a larger Christmas fundraiser in Kent, here are seven ideas to make your event extra special.

1. Create a Magical Santa's Grotto

For many children, meeting Father Christmas is the highlight of a school Christmas fair.

A beautifully decorated grotto can create a memorable experience for families while offering a fantastic opportunity for festive photographs.

Think about adding a comfortable Santa's throne, Christmas decorations, reindeer and a welcoming entrance.

Beyond Bounce offers a range of Santa's Grotto Hire options, suitable for different types of festive events.

2. Add Some Christmas-Themed Bouncy Castles

Children love bouncy castles, and Christmas-themed inflatables can bring even more excitement to a school fair.

They're a great way to give children an energetic activity between visiting stalls, enjoying refreshments and meeting Santa.

Depending on your venue, you could choose a Christmas bouncy castle or a festive bounce-and-slide combination.

Take a look at Beyond Bounce's Christmas Bouncy Castle Hire range for inspiration.

Make sure your chosen venue has suitable space and that the inflatables are operated with appropriate supervision.

3. Set Up Traditional Christmas Fair Games

Games are a brilliant way to keep visitors entertained and can also help raise money for your school.

Some popular ideas include:

  • Guess how many sweets are in the jar

  • Christmas ring toss

  • Name the Christmas teddy

  • Lucky dip

  • Festive beanbag throwing

  • Hook-a-duck or other suitable fairground-style games

You could offer small prizes or run activities using tokens.

For something a little different, Beyond Bounce also provides Party Games and Extras that can be incorporated into school events.

4. Create a Festive Photo Opportunity

Christmas fairs are full of special family moments, so why not create a dedicated photo area?

A festive backdrop, decorative sleigh or life-size nutcrackers can provide the perfect setting for Christmas photographs.

For a winter wonderland theme, consider white decorations, reindeer and sparkling lights.

Browse the Christmas Prop Hire range for ideas that can transform an ordinary school hall into something magical.

5. Include Activities for Younger Children

If your Christmas fair welcomes families with toddlers and preschool children, it's worth providing activities designed specifically for younger visitors.

A dedicated soft play area can offer little ones somewhere to play while older children enjoy the other attractions.

Colourful soft play shapes and ball pools are popular choices for younger age groups.

Discover Beyond Bounce's Soft Play Hire options to find something suitable for your event.

6. Add Festive Food and Treats

No Christmas fair feels complete without some delicious food!

Popular choices include mince pies, biscuits, hot chocolate and traditional festive sweets.

For something different, you could introduce a popcorn stall or other fun food options.

Beyond Bounce offers Popcorn and Party Food Equipment Hire, which can help you add extra treats to your event.

Remember to consider food allergies, dietary requirements and appropriate food hygiene arrangements.

7. Plan Your Layout and Timings

A well-organised Christmas fair makes the experience more enjoyable for everyone.

Before the event, think about the flow of visitors through the venue.

Consider placing Santa's grotto away from busier games and refreshments, giving families a calmer space to enjoy their visit.

Make sure you allow enough room for queues, pushchairs and accessible routes.

If you're hiring inflatables or other large equipment, check the available floor space, ceiling height and setup requirements in advance.

Christmas Fair Equipment Hire Across Kent and Medway

Whether you're organising a school Christmas fair in Rochester, a festive fundraiser in Chatham or a community celebration in Dartford, Beyond Bounce can help you bring your ideas to life.

With Christmas inflatables, Santa's grottos, festive props, soft play and party games available for hire, there are plenty of ways to create a memorable event.

Explore our School Event Hire range, or contact Beyond Bounce to discuss your Christmas fair requirements.

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