Clients looking to hire a magician for their upcoming event normally have two options: strolling magic or a magic show.
We asked our resident magicians Kenny and James (as well as our booking agent Jessica) to help us explain the differences so every client can book the best fit for their upcoming event.
What is the difference between strolling magic and a magic show?
Our magician James performing a stage show
James: In a magic show, there’s a boundary between the “stage” area and the “audience” area. While volunteers from the audience are often invited up on stage, and the magician frequently makes forays into the audience, there’s a demarcation. The stage (or “platform” or “parlor”) magic show is longer — often half an hour or 45 minutes — with several routines consisting of several tricks, to provide a cohesive whole with a theme. Think of a one-act play.
In strolling magic, the magician approaches individuals or small groups (three to five folks, typically) to present one to three tricks. The magic is more like a conversation than a stage play. Often the members of the audience touch and examine the props, and the magic itself takes place in the spectators’ hands. People sitting a dinner, folks waiting in line for some other event, people standing about — they are the ones who have a bit of magic touch their lives. It’s up close and personal.
Kenny: My personal show is a 50/50 mix of comedy and classic magic with a twist of clown charm. You can expect to see me on a stage while I go through one trick after another with plenty of helpers and laughs. Like most magicians, every show I do is largely the same with some adjustments for the event.
My strolling magic is more clowning around. I do plenty of magic, but can cater each interaction to the event and individuals there. That might be some puppets, juggling, clown gags, balloon twisting, or anything else–all depending on what I think will work best for the audience.
What audiences does *your* strolling magic land best with?
James: For me, it’s often folks above the age of six or seven, though young adults through twenties seem to enjoy it most.
Kenny: My strolling magic is great for all ages, like an animated movie that’s made for kids ages 5-9 but has plenty of jokes and puns for teens and adults.
When would you recommend strolling magic over a show?
James the magician performing strolling magic at a public event
James: Would having everyone sit in rows looking in one direction fit in with your plan for the event? Then go with a show. A corporate dinner and awards presentation, for example. If you have more freedom of motion, mingling, and random movement with no fixed schedule for various phases of the day, go with strolling.
Kenny: I recommend strolling magic for fairs & similar big events where there is 100s off people to entertain a few at a time
Jessica: In my experience planning events with clients, event organizers who don’t have a formal schedule for their event often like the flexibility of having a magician wander through the audience.
When would you recommend a show over strolling magic?
Kenny performing a stage show at a school event
James: When there’s a schedule, when you expect folks to be all in one place at one time, then go with a show. If it’s mingling/freeform, then go with strolling.
Kenny: Private parties, corporate events, big events if there is ample seating.
Jessica: Clients who are booking entertainment with the goal of keeping kids contained often prefer a show so the kids can sit down while parents talk amongst themselves (or also hang out and enjoy the show!
About how many guests will interact with you an hour?
James: For a show — all of them, all at once. For strolling, probably forty people an hour will be directly involved, with as many more looking on as random chance may provide.
Kenny: In a strolling set I can entertain 15-30 people, depending on how amped up the kids or adults are.
What sort of tricks should guests be ready to see in *your* strolling set?
Kenny strolling on a boat for a private summer camp event
James: Folks should expect to see dice, coins, rings, strings, dollar bills. They’ll see classic sleight-of-hand using ordinary objects. They’ll experience the magic in their own hands.
Kenny: Gravity manipulation with water, magic bags they can reach into, a cheeky puppet named Sherbert, ball juggling, and of course plenty of clowning around!
Our summer camp entertainment ideas, activities, and them inspiration are perfect for camps looking for unique programming ideas. We know camp directors face a few challenges: hundreds of kids needing to be entertained, running a complicated schedule, and having to do it all on a budget!
After over a decade of working with YMCAs, town Parks & Recs departments, public schools, and private daycares, we have our summer camp entertainment packages down to a science to make sure all of your campers are thrilled, parents are impressed, and you stay within your budget.
1. Foam Party
Programming Theme: Splash Day
Alternative Theme Ideas: Luau Party, Beach Day
Entertainment Package: We throw a foam party where campers dance to kids bop, take tons of silly photos, and get out all of their energy–all in our amazing foam pit! This “party in a box” model means you have ZERO PLANNING to do, which puts it at #1 for our list of summer camp entertainment ideas!
Bonus summer camp entertainment ideas for your team to implement:
Want to add more to your foam party? Here are some budget programming ideas that your staff can use, based on things we’ve seen other camps do!
Round it out to be a full splash day with more water activities
Water play for younger kids
Water balloon fights for older kids
Water sponge dodgeball
Pool time
Ages: 2 – Teen
Great For: Outdoor camps, camps without pool access
Don’t Recommend For: Camps with only indoor space; daycares that are only for infants and toddlers.
Alternative Theme Ideas: Adventure Day, Magic Day, Aquarium Day
Entertainment Package: We invite a mermaid or pirate of your choice for group shows and individual activities. Gather everyone around for mermaid story time or a pirate magic show, then bring by individual groups for mermaid glitter tattoos or pirate sword balloon twisting.
Bonus summer camp entertainment ideas for your team to implement:
Want to add more to your pirates and mermaids day? Here are some budget programming ideas that your staff can use, based on things we’ve seen other camps do!
Have campers dress up as mermaids and pirates.
Hold a “talk like a pirate” contest all day–give each kid a sticker to start the day. If an adult catches them talking without a “pirate accent” they lose the sticker. Whoever can go the entire day talking like a pirate wins!
If your camp has occasional pool access, this is also perfect for a pool day to keep groups busy while they’re out of the pool.
Ages: Our mermaid story time is perfect for ages 2-6, and our pirate magic show is perfect for ages 4-9. Invite one or both of them for a mix-and-match day that fits your needs.
Great For: Camps with younger kids (for mermaids); camps looking to keep kids busy on pool days (both mermaids and pirates); camps who love dress-up days (both mermaids and pirates).
Don’t Recommend Mermaid Story Time For: Camps that are primarily elementary and middle school (mermaid story time is best for younger kids)
Don’t Recommend Pirate Magic Show For: Camps that are mostly toddlers or PreK (magic needs more attention span than that)
Entertainment Package: Kenny the Clown comes and entertains the whole group with a 30min magic show, then takes groups for a juggling lesson using easy-to-juggle clown scarves. Bonus: add a second clown for speedy face painting or simple balloon twisting.
Bonus summer camp entertainment ideas for your team to implement:
Want to add more to your circus camp day? Here are some budget programming ideas that your staff can use, based on things we’ve seen other camps do!
Put on a talent show to create your own variety show as part of the camp circus!
If you have snack time, consider renting a popcorn or cotton candy machine.
Ages: 4-9 for the magic show, 7-teen for juggling class. Learn more here.
Great For: Camps with a stage; arts camps; camps that can program different activities for different ages.
Don’t Recommend For: Daycares that are only for infants and toddlers
Alternative Theme Ideas: Clown School, Circus Camp, Carnival
Entertainment Package: One of our professional balloon twisters will come with enough supplies for groups of up to 15 kids to learn designs at once. Students will learn between 2-4 designs (depending on age and time alotted) and take home their creations.
Bonus summer camp entertainment ideas for your team to implement:
Want to add more to your balloon class? Here are some budget programming ideas that your staff can use, based on things we’ve seen other camps do!
Have staff come to the class to twist along (and have fun!), as well as keep things running smoothly
Include other balloon crafts like origami or paper mache hot air balloons
Consider balloon-themed sports like water balloon fights, balloon-popping relay races, or water balloon dodge ball!
Ages: 7-teen for balloon twisting class, but professional balloon twisting time can be added so younger kids aren’t excluded. Learn more here.
Great For: Small-group breakouts, library camps, arts or STEM camps
Don’t Recommend For: Daycares that are only for infants and toddlers
Alternative Theme Ideas: Arts & Crafts Day, 60’s or 70’s Spirit Day
Entertainment Package: We set up a do-it-yourself tie dye station using spray-dye for a low-mess experience. Campers can bag their shirts immediately after creation and put them in their backpacks to avoid confusing mix-ups when picking up their shirt (no air-dry time required).
Bonus summer camp entertainment ideas for your team to implement:
Want to add more to your tie-dye station? Here are some budget programming ideas that your staff can use, based on things we’ve seen other camps do!
Host the tie dye station for the first day of Color Wars to get everyone in the spirit, and let our office know at booking what colors your camp teams will be repping so we can bring the right colors for you
Before dying the shirts, let kids get creative with Sharpies and draw their own designs in black (or let them write their name / group on the back like jerseys)
Bust out all of your favorite craft activities like chalk art, weaving, or jewelry making for an amazing art day.
Host a different decade every day of the week, and throw in airbrush tattoos (below) for 80’s or glitter tattoos for 90s/00s/Y2K
Ages: 5 – Teen
Great For: Camps that don’t typically have arts and crafts time; take-home projects
Don’t Recommend For: Camps with indoor-only space; camps that are nervous about kids potentially getting dye on clothing or floors.
Alternative Theme Ideas: Kids in STEM, Slime Day, Science Museum
Entertainment Package: Our mad scientists will present the kids with a show (similar to a magic show but grounded in the scientific method) and follow it up with hands-on slime labs!
Bonus summer camp entertainment ideas for your team to implement:
Want to add more to your science day? Here are some budget programming ideas that your staff can use, based on things we’ve seen other camps do!
Throw contests where the winning group(s) get to “slime” their camp counselors at the end of the day!
Couple this with other STEM projects: paper boat races, pinewood derby, crystal growing, or seed starting!
Make it a “science museum” day and bring astronomy, dinosaurs, or history into your programming with crafts or a movie screening.
Combine it with the Bubble Show (below) for a Science Week
Ages: 5 – 10
Great For: Camps that like to schedule seated activities; arts camps looking for something out of the box and educational; camps with families who value multi-disciplinary activities.
Don’t Recommend For: Camps that focus on high-energy activities; camps that focus on toddlers and Pre-K only.
Alternative Theme Ideas: Splash Day, Kids in STEM, Science Week
Entertainment Package: Our Bubblologist comes and puts on a show that’s equal parts magic and science–all about bubbles!
Bonus summer camp entertainment ideas for your team to implement:
Want to add more to your bubble show and play? Here are some budget programming ideas that your staff can use, based on things we’ve seen other camps do!
Kids love bubbles! Add a bubble station and bubble photo booth for multiple stations for every group to rotate through.
Add crafts to your bubble day like DIY pipe cleaner bubble wands; “bubble painting” with bingo stampers; and bubble painting.
Combine a bubble day, a foam party day, and pool day to create a whole splash week!
Combine it with the Science Show (below) for a Science Week
Ages: 4-10
Great For: Camps that like to schedule seated activities; arts camps; camps with families who value multi-disciplinary activities.
Alternative Theme Ideas: Glow, Overnight Sleepover, Dance Party
Entertainment Package: We provide a DJ, party lighting, and black-light reactive face painting. Your summer camp is instantly transformed to a family-friendly night club!
Bonus summer camp entertainment ideas for your team to implement:
Want to add more to your black light party? Here are some budget programming ideas that your staff can use, based on things we’ve seen other camps do!
Have kids wear only black and white so the white glows under UV
Couple morning black light face painting with a glowing mini golf field trip in the afternoon
Add light painting or glow stick crafts earlier in the day and watch your creations come to life!
Ages: 4 – Teen
Great For: Camps with large indoor space where windows can be shut and lights can be turned off.
Don’t Recommend For: Camps that are only outdoors during the day.
Alternative Theme Ideas: Picasso Day, Day at the Museum, LIT/CIT Appreciation Day
Entertainment Package: We throw a paint party for your teens where we go step-by-step with a real art teacher to create masterpieces we can take home. (The most common paint party feedback we receive from camp directors is “I can’t believe how engaged the kids are”. If you’re struggling to keep tweens and teens off of phones, this is a great activity to have them lock in on the real world.)
Bonus summer camp entertainment ideas for your team to implement:
Want to add more to your paint party? Here are some budget programming ideas that your staff can use, based on things we’ve seen other camps do!
Bust out all of your favorite craft activities like tie dye (above), weaving, or jewelry making for an amazing art day.
Have a “dress like a famous painting” costume contest and assign each kid a famous painting (Starry Night, Mona Lisa, The Scream, Andy Warhol’s Soup Cans, The Persistence of Memory) and give out awards for Most Fashionable, Most Creative, Best Acting, Most Artistic, and more!
Host a chalk art contest where the LITs and CITs work with their groups to create an original piece of work, again handing out awards for Most Colorful, Best Teamwork, Most Artistic, and more!
Ages: tweens, teens, and adults.
Great For: Camps that like to schedule seated activities; arts camps; camps with families who value multi-disciplinary activities; camps with populations of tweens and teens looking for more mature pogramming.
Don’t Recommend For: Camps with limited space; camps that are nervous about kids potentially getting paint on clothing or floors; camps on a tight budget; camps with a focus on kids in pre-K or elementary school.
Entertainment Package: New England’s most popular clown, Kenny, will entertain your kids with a 45-60min show full of comedy, puppets, juggling, and magic.
Bonus summer camp entertainment ideas for your team to implement:
Want to add more to the day you host Kenny’s extravaganza? Here are some budget programming ideas that your staff can use, based on things we’ve seen other camps do!
Have kids create their own paper bag puppets and write their own skits for their original characters.
Looking for college entertainment ideas in New England? Kaleidoscope is New England’s largest artistic entertainment company with artists in CT, MA, RI, NH, and additionally serving VT and ME.
We’ve compiled our Top 10 most creative college entertainment ideas in this guide full of quick tips and at-a-glance stats to help you quickly plan an amazing college party. These are all products that we provide, and if you’re interested in booking some college event entertainment we’d love to work with you!
12 College Entertainment Ideas for New England Schools:
1. Paint Parties
At-a-Glance: Students sit down with one of our professional artists and create a painting (which you, the event planner, chose) as a group. Think: Bob Ross meets Paint And Sip parties.
Number of students entertained: 20-200 per painting.
LogisticalConsiderations: For groups over 80, we encourage working with your events management department to get our paint night instructors some AV to be seen by the whole group. (Or, if that’s too much of a logistical challenge, invite our paint night instructors for smaller waves of 40-80 kids as part of your regular programming.)
You’ll also need to provide a chair and table for every student, plus tablecloths. Paint parties aren’t very messy, so consult your events management or building maintenance for any rules your campus might have.
We love it for: ResLife alternatives to alcohol or cannabis; Student Government-sponsored activities; and commuter schools trying to get students on campus for activities.
Not recommended for: family days (this is designed for teens and adults, not younger siblings); spaces with limited seating/space.
Bonus college entertainment ideas for your staff to implement: as an alternative to popular “paint and sip” parties, create a build-your-own-sundae or -tacos bar and have students snack while they paint.
At-a-Glance: Set up a station where students can get their own henna, glitter, flash, or aibrush tattoos done.
Number of students entertained: Anywhere from 10-12 guests per hour (henna) to 25 guests per hour (airbrush) per artist with up to 10 artists available per tattoo. We love these for large-scale events where you want to get a ton of students something fun in a short amount of time.
Considerations: Temporary tattoo artists require 2 chairs and some table space per artist, and for outdoor events must be placed in the shade (over 75*F) or in a heated area (under 55*F). Airbrush tattoos require electricity.
We love it for: events over 500+ students; cultural centers; Safe Grad / Project Graduation; and carnival-themed events.
Not recommended for: Small intimate events (tattoos are generally very quick to apply).
Bonus college entertainment ideas for your staff to implement
Here are a few budget-friendly ideas we’ve seen other colleges do which your staff can organize to take your temporary tattoo entertainment to the next level:
Add all 4 types of tattoo stations throughout your event or campus. Have students go on a scavenger hunt and collect all 4 for a prize.
Because airbrush tattoos specifically are fast, the cost per student is significantly less than some higher-end entertainment types. Use airbrush tattoos to add some budget entertainment so you can also offer students more expensive niche experiences without breaking your budget.
At-a-Glance: Students are invited to dance in waist-high foam and bubbles.
Number of students entertained: Up to 50 at a time (2 cannons). Can be done in lined waves (like an amusement park line) or organically (typically students are done after about 10-15min in the foam).
Considerations: Foam must be done outdoors and requires a large flat area (such as black top or a quad lawn) with no obtrusive objects (sprinklers, sewers, rocks, holes, landscaping). Additionally, foam needs to be no more than 100′ from a grounded power outlet on it’s own circuit and 100′ from an outdoor water spigot. Students will get wet, so foam may be best suited for post-class activities.
We love it for: spring finals stress-busting activities; school-sponsored sporting events and tailgating; commuter schools trying to get students on campus for activities; sorority and fraternity events; and health-focused events that want to get students up and moving.
Not recommended for: indoor events; low-energy events.
Bonus college entertainment ideas for your staff to implement
Here are a few budget-friendly ideas we’ve seen other colleges do which your staff can organize to take your foam party to the next level:
Use foam cannons as “checkpoints” every 1k for a 5k race or at intervals throughout walking/running fundraisers on a track.
Use foam to let students cool down at an outdoor event like a BBQ or outdoor fundraiser
Throw a foam party for your wellness week to encourage movement or bust stress during finals week.
At-a-Glance: Students indulge their inner child with some fun face painting or silly balloon twisting.
Number of students entertained: 10-12 per hour (regular size) or 15-20 per hour (“speedy” selection).
Considerations: Face painters need 2 chairs and some table space; balloon twisters need 1 chair and some table space.
We love it for: carnival-themed events; family visitation weekends; and school-sponsored tailgates.
Not recommended for: formal events.
Bonus college entertainment ideas for your staff to implement
Here are a few budget-friendly ideas we’ve seen other colleges do which your staff can organize to take balloon twisting and face painting to the next level:
Use face painting for themed holiday events that typically involve costumes–like Mardi Gras, Purim, Halloween, Day of the Dead–and let our artists create something amazing in-theme!
Have our face painters or balloon twisters create Game Day sports faces or wearable balloon designs in your school colors to add some school spirit.
At-a-Glance: Our professional makeup artists and face painters will create over-the-top glitter looks for your guests.
Number of students entertained: 12-15 per hour per artist.
Considerations: Glitter look artists need 2 chairs and some table space each. Recommended over tile floors or outdoors.
We love it for: School spirit and homecoming weeks; sorority programming; campus Pride groups; and glamorous events looking to add some fun.
Not recommended for: carpeted areas (glitter will stay in those carpets for years).
Bonus college entertainment ideas for your staff to implement
Here are a few budget-friendly ideas we’ve seen other colleges do which your staff can organize to take your glitter looks entertainment to the next level:
Host an after-party to a formal academic event with some fun glitter looks as a magical touch
Have a glitter looks makeup bar before your upcoming Pride event or drag show to let all guests get glammed up before the main event
At-a-Glance: We provide both the light rental and the artists to create glowing UV looks.
Number of students entertained: 10-12 per hour per artist
Considerations: The area should be dark with only limited color lights (such as uplights or LED strips) as well as UV. (Ask our office about lighting packages with our DJ services.)
We love it for: Pride events; nightclub-inspired events; Safe Grad / Project Graduation; ResLife events planned as late-night alternatives to alcohol or cannabis.
Not recommended for: outdoor events; indoor spaces where lights cannot be shut out by shutters, blinds, or curtains.
Bonus college entertainment ideas for your staff to implement
Here are a few budget-friendly ideas we’ve seen other colleges do which your staff can organize to take your UV-reactive entertainment to the next level:
Ask students to bring consoles to project party games like Mario Cart or Super Smash onto the walls for a glowing game night tournament.
Host a glow in the dark 5k run or fundraiser, using both glow stick jewelry and a UV-reactive face painting station
Create a nightclub-inspired event by combining UV face and body painting with DJ services.
At-a-Glance: Your students will bring a question or problem to our tarot and palm readers, who in turn will use the “grammar” of palmastry and tarot to discuss the questions the guests have. (Palm and tarot do not use any religious themes or witch craft.)
Number of students entertained: 6-8 per hour per reader.
Considerations: Each reader needs a table and 2 chairs far away from the “action” of the event (DJs, food lines, other stations) for a cozy and private chat.
We love it for: Halloween or fall events; cozy indoor events; commuter schools trying to get students on campus for activities; and Safe Grad / Project Graduation events.
Not recommended for: Loud and large events (these readings feel intimate and quiet).
Bonus college entertainment ideas for your staff to implement
Here are a few budget-friendly ideas we’ve seen other colleges do which your staff can organize to take your psychic entertainment to the next level:
Create a “psychic” area at your upcoming fall event.
Hire massage therapists or yoga instructors for a wellness day, and add some lighthearted fun with tarot or palm readers.
For a cozy event, pair psychic services with “craft bars” where students can build terrariums or succulent gardens for their dorm rooms.
At-a-Glance: One of our magicians or mind readers will walk throughout your event and invite guests to participate in some up-close magic. (Please note, this is not a stage show.)
Number of students entertained: Up to 40 per hour. (Ideal for large-scale events.)
Considerations: Strolling mentalism and magic is extremely flexible and require nothing from the planner except a place to stash personal belongings like a coat, water bottle, and extra props.
We love it for: Halloween or fall events; Safe Grad / Project Graduation; carnival-themed events; and any events of over 500+ students.
Not recommended for: Small events under 50 people; events looking for a sit-down show; events where this is the only entertainment.
Bonus college entertainment ideas for your staff to implement
Here are a few budget-friendly ideas we’ve seen other colleges do which your staff can organize to take your magical entertainment to the next level:
Add a strolling magician to a formal seated event, like a dinner or gala, for some strolling entertainment and a fun touch to a classy event.
Throw an outdoor event inspired by vintage carnivals with carnival rides, games, tarot/palm readers, stilt walkers, and strolling magicians.
At-a-Glance: Students drop by a craft station where, with the help of one of our professional tie-dye artists, they twist, wrap, and spray their creations. They can instantly bag and take their creations with them.
Number of students entertained: 15-25 students per hour per tie-dye artist.
Considerations: Spray dye is lower mess than traditional dip-dye, but should still be done over tile floors or outdoors to facilitate clean up. All apparel must be 100% cotton and can be provided by the school (university-branded apparel) or by Kaleidoscope.
We love it for: outdoor events; sorority and fraternity event programming; school-sponsored sporting events; school spirit week; and student government-sponsored events.
Not recommended for: events where students’ clothing cannot get dirty. (Dye is washable until heat set, but students who are afraid of dye on their clothes won’t participate.)
Bonus college entertainment ideas for your staff to implement
Here are a few budget-friendly ideas we’ve seen other colleges do which your staff can organize to take your tie-dye station to the next level:
Include tie-dye in a spirit week with decades-themed days for the 60’s or 70’s and include a DIY hemp jewelry station.
Create an end-of-semester Summer Camp event where students can bust finals stress with tie-dye, a foam party, and classic camp crafts that ignite their inner children.
Prepare 100% cotton university apparel and have our tie-dye artists bring only school colors before a sports game. (Just let our office know at the time of booking.)
Bring all of your school’s sorority and fraternity chapters together for Greek Week where students can dye apparel of their choosing with the colors of their house.
At-a-Glance: Our professional DJ will set up a karaoke station for students including all music, monitors with lyrics, microphones, and optional add-ons like photo booths or lighting.
Number of students entertained: Up to 14 songs per hour (up to 4 mics available for 4 students to sing together).
Considerations: Our DJ should be kept either inside or under shade outdoors to stop equipment from overheating and will need access to grounded power outlets on their own circuits.
We love it for: Evening programming as an alternative to alcohol and cannabis; cultural center post-parties; Pride and drag events; sorority events; and project graduation.
Not recommended for: outdoor events after 8pm (the local area may have sound ordinances that don’t allow loud music to be played outdoors after a certain time); events where you want to encourage dancing and have regular DJ sevices.
Bonus college entertainment ideas for your staff to implement
Here are a few budget-friendly ideas we’ve seen other colleges do which your staff can organize to take your karaoke party to the next level:
Host a karaoke event series over the course of several weeks where the crowd is able to vote for winning teams.
Have a fun spin on a Halloween costume contest where students are invited to come in costume, but then judged not on the costume itself but their character’s ability to pull off a fantastic karaoke number. (For instance: a student in a Barbie costume singing the 90’s pop hit Barbie Girl; or a group dressed up as the characters of Grease singing Grease Lightening.)
For events that are alternatives to alcohol and cannabis use, hire a DJ for an event series to host a series of activities that are reminiscent of the social parts of a bar–such as karaoke, trivia, music Bingo, board game night, or a cornhole tournament–but swap the alcohol to snack bars. We’ve seen sundae bars, cereal bars, taco bars, and brunch bars be huge hits with students!
Host a drag karaoke evening where students are encouraged to come dressed up and belt their hearts out. Add glitter looks for students who want to enjoy the fun but don’t want to come in drag themselves!
At-a-Glance: Students line up to be drawn as cartoons by one of our professional artists.
Number of students entertained: Up to 10 faces per hour per artist.
We love it for: lighthearted events; carnival-inspired events; outdoor picnics; department-wide events; events looking to use entertainment as a marketing hook to draw in large amounts of students.
Not recommended for: formal or serious events; family day events geared towards entertaining young children.
Considerations: Each caricature artist will need 1 table and 3 chairs. This should be indoors or, for outdoor events, in the shade for days over 75*F or with heat for days under 50*F.
Bonus college entertainment ideas for your staff to implement
Here are a few budget-friendly ideas we’ve seen other colleges do which your staff can organize to take your caricature entertainment to the next level:
Use caricatures as a fun alternative to photo booths and help students get a break from screens and cameras.
Create a “beach day” with a foam party, caricatures, a DIY sand art craft station, airbrush tattoos, ice cream trucks, and other entertainment reminiscent of boardwalks and summer sand.
At-a-Glance: A stilt walker will roam throughout your event chatting with students.
Number of students entertained: Unlimited
Considerations: Stilt walkers should only be placed on even ground such as black top, pavers, or indoor flooring. They cannot walk on sand, gravel, or grass.
We love it for: Carnival, Mardi Gras, and Purim events; circus-themed events; career or club fairs; and college-sponsored sporting events.
Not recommended for: events looking to stilt walkres as an activity for students to participate in. (We classify stilt walkers as “atmospheric entertainment” which add to the overall vibe of your event, but are not a specific activity.)
Bonus college entertainment ideas for your staff to implement
Here are a few budget-friendly ideas we’ve seen other colleges do which your staff can organize to take your use of stilt walkers to the next level:
Station your stilt walker in front of a large event, drawing people in and explaining anything you want them to know (where certain stations are, what activities are going on, or anything else).
Buy a Polaroid camera and plenty of film. Have your stilt walker roam throughout the event and take photos of students from their point of view, handing the photos to students as they go. This is a really fun alternative to standard photobooth and gives students something tactile they can take home with them!
Have your stilt walker hand out school-branded swag at a sports game or spirit week.
Bianca is an experienced princess performer, balloon twister, and face painter with a super interesting background!
She started as a party entertainer with Kaleidoscope in 2022, and brings an impressive background as an entertainer both through cosplay and as a professional Twitch streamer. Here’s what she has to say about herself:
My name is Bianca, and I am an avid cosplayer, Twitch affiliate, and Disney fanatic. Although I originally adapted my makeup and costume skills as a cosplayer, I was given many opportunities to truly shape my craft while performing at events and immersing myself fully into the characters I love.
I understand the difference between cosplay and a professional acting gig and the sheer importance of creating memorable experiences for families and children. I’ve worked with children for many years, having started my adult career as a camp counselor for 4 years. I pay special attention to character details, personality traits, and lore related to the universe they come from. I often hyperfocus on these details because they help the characters come alive.
I’m thankful to have become a face painter and balloon twister more recently, because while I get the greatest joy out of interpreting the characters I love, it’s a new creative challenge that I’ve loved to explore!
I am Mexican-American, and I take great pride in my Latina heritage and culture. I’ve always been particularly enamored by Honey Lemon from the 2014 Disney film, Big Hero 6; but, I also deeply connect with Queen Elsa and Rapunzel. It always brings me great joy to portray the latter characters, who are prominently depicted as Caucasian, because it shows others (and especially children of color!) that their favorite Disney princesses can look just like them!
At Kaleidoscope, Bianca will be interpreting a number of princesses, pirates, and fairies that are unique to her.
In addition to her fantastic background as a cosplayer and princess, she entertains here doing:
There are plenty of big fans of caricatures who collect their portraits from different artists at theme parks, beaches, or events all over their state or the country–but for everyone else, check out our gallery and this handy guide to some of our most frequently asked questions!
Why is face painting so expensive? Why do you have to pay so much to have a princess come to your party? Why can’t you just have a 30min mascot visit?
Because almost all of our clients are party parents on a budget (although most of our income is actually from corporate clients on an even tighter budget) we’ve always put a lot of effort into keeping our prices down and our packages flexible enough for everyone to afford.
But we also understand it can be frustrating when you don’t see a package or price you had hoped for. So in the spirit of transparency in our business and respect for our clients, we published a breakdown of why, exactly, party entertainment can be so pricey.
Have you ever seen a celebrity magician read someone’s mind on TV? Or guess something about a total stranger they could have never known? Consider bringing those larger-than-life moments to your next event!
Kaleidoscope now offers jaw-dropping, impossible-for-you-to-know, and get out of my head! psychic encounters with our resident mentalist, Marissa.
Mascots + face painting and balloon twisting are HUGE of 2-5 year old parties in CT, MA, RI, and NH! Check out what we expect to be trending in 2017 for some great party ideas.
If you’re looking for creative bachelorete party entertainment ideas in CT, MA, RI, and NH, Kaleidoscope is New England’s highest-rated creative entertainment company!
Whether you’re looking for an alcohol-free alternative or something fun to do while you sip drinks, our amazing team of professional artists and entertainers would love to create an amazing event for your guests!
Foam parties
Foam parties are a unique and unforgettable way to bring bubbly excitement to your bachelorette celebration! Imagine dancing with your squad through mountains of foam, creating memories that are as fun as they are one-of-a-kind.
Encourage your guests to dress in playful poolside attire—think shorts, tank tops, bathing suits, or even festive Hawai’ian shirts—for a wet and wild party vibe that will keep the energy flowing all night long.
Make your bachelorette party unforgettable with DJ Cesar bringing the energy, fun, and perfect vibes to your celebration! Our customizable DJ packages are designed to keep the party going all night with features like:
Professional DJ services and sound system for nonstop music and dancing.
Karaoke setup with mics and monitors, perfect for belting out your favorite tunes with the bride squad.
Fun photo booth options, including digital or printed photos, themed backdrops, logo inserts, playful props, and even an inflatable photo booth cube for extra flair.
Party lighting that sets the mood, including vibrant uplighting for the perfect party glow.
TV and projection rentals to display slideshows, videos, or heartfelt messages.
Interactive MC and hosting, featuring games and activities tailored to your group.
Every detail is customizable to fit your style and make the bride-to-be’s night truly one-of-a-kind. Let us help you throw a bachelorette bash to remember!
Looking to add a touch of mystique to your bachelorette party?
Our talented tarot and palm readers are ready to enchant your guests with engaging and lighthearted readings, perfect for adults of all ages. Let our master storytellers captivate your group with fun and intriguing insights that will make your celebration unforgettable!
Please note: Our psychic packages focus on positive, playful themes and do not address sensitive topics like death or dying. While ideal for adults, these experiences are best suited for guests aged 16 and up.
For a fun and creative addition to your bachelorette party, temporary tattoos are a hit! They’re quick to apply, budget-friendly, and perfect for guests of all ages to enjoy.
From elegant henna designs to bold full-sleeve airbrush tattoos, or even a nostalgic touch with Y2K glitter or 2010s-inspired flash tattoos, our team will bring the artistry to your celebration. Let us help you create a playful and stylish experience your guests will love!
Our paint party instructors will guide your bachelorette group step-by-step through a two-hour creative experience at any venue you choose. Whether you’re painting vibrant landscapes or trendy mandalas, all you need to do is pick the design and provide the space—we’ll take care of the rest!
Paint parties are a perfect alternative to traditional bachelorette activities, offering a fun and relaxed way to celebrate. They’ve been a hit as paint-and-sip experiences at luxury venues and are an increasingly popular choice for unique and memorable gatherings. Let’s make your celebration a masterpiece!
If you’re looking for party entertainment for adults in CT, MA, RI, and NH, Kaleidoscope is New England’s highest-rated creative entertainment company!
Here are some of our favorite ideas for creative adult entertainment for your next corporate event, night club, baby or bridal shower, and any other event you have in mind!
Foam parties for adults
Foam parties are wet and wild parties where your guests can dance through mountains of bubbles and fun.
Guests can be wearing anything they would to a pool party (shorts, tank tops, Hawai’ian shirts, or bathing suites) and enjoy a totally unique entertainment experience.
Our team of tarot and palm readers would love to come to your event and produce readings for adults of all ages. Let our master storytellers intrigue and delight your party guests!
Please note, our psychic packages are lighthearted and do not deal with topics such as death or dying, but are not appropriate for children under 16.
For large adult events, temporary tattoos are generally fast to apply and are a great budget-friendly experience for all ages.
Whether it’s a delicate henna tattoo, a full-sleeve airbrush tattoo, or a nostalgic Y2K glitter or 2010’s flash tattoo, we’d love to come decorate your guests!
Caricatures are our most popular art form for adult events, whether it’s a keepsake for a family reunion or a brand-oriented giveaway at a massive corporate event.
Our team of in-house caricature artists are all professional artists with advance training and years of experience, as well as their own unique styles.
Our stilt walkers can be themed to your event and help you achieve your event goals. Here are some of the ways our aamzing clients have used our stilt walkers:
Welcoming guests to an event (Blue Back Square, West Hartford, CT)
Helping guests find their seats at an event (Kernwood Country Club, Salem, MA)
Taking polaroid photos of guests as giveaways (Redbull, Boston MA)
Handing out glow sticks and LED accessories at a glow party (financial firm in CT)
Giving away free tshirts at a tailgate party (Behr Paint, Patriot’s Stadium, Foxboro MA)
Walking in a parade (The Town of Marblehead, MA)
Balloon twisting for restaurant guests (3rd Ave, Burlington, MA)
Our talented paint party instructors will help your group go step-by-step in a two-hour experience at any venue of your choosing. From colorful landscapes to modern mandalas, all you need to do is pick your painting and provide the space–we’ll bring the rest!
Paint parties are our single hottest-selling event type for colleges as an alternative to drinking, and have also recently been popular paint-and-sip activities at country clubs, luxury apartment communities, and corporate events.
Add some childlike joy to your adult parties–glitter isn’t just for kids!
Our glitter looks combine a ton of glitter and a touch of paint to creative unique looks for everyone, including men! From elegant Purim galas to over-the-top silly bachelorette party fun, our glitter looks are a way for adults to break out of their stiff, formal day to day and enjoy your event.
