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The Business of Fun: Why Carnivals and Circuses Belong in Your Parking Lot

Image result for pictures of carnival in parking lot

There’s something timeless about the thrill of a carnival or the spectacle of a circus. These attractions draw crowds, stir up nostalgia, and—most importantly—generate foot traffic. For shopping centers, they also represent a major revenue opportunity.

Carnivals and circuses need space. They need visibility. They need access to restrooms and power hookups. Mall parking lots check every box. More importantly, these traveling operations come with their own built-in marketing. Their bright signage and giant tents turn heads and pull families off the road.

For mall owners, the deal is simple: rent your parking lot for 1–3 weeks, collect reliable rent, and gain the added benefit of thousands of new visitors walking near or through your retail center. The most successful events often coincide with school breaks, long weekends, or holidays—times when traditional indoor foot traffic slows.

KevaWorks has helped place dozens of carnivals at malls across the country, working directly with operators and local officials to streamline the setup. If you haven’t hosted a carnival before, it’s easier than you think—and often more lucrative than expected.