The Cardboard Carnival 2026
We challenge you to design & build a cardboard carnival game
The Cardboard Carnival is open to all D65 students and Evanston residents in grades 5th – 8th.
The rules are simple. Design a carnival style game using cardboard and other everyday materials. You must also include at least one motorized element. We will provide you with a free kit to help you get started that includes supplies, tools, and everything you need.
No experience is required.
First time building a cardboard game? Never programmed a motor? We have you covered. We have created a variety of video tutorials to assist you in your design process – topics include programming a motor, building a catapult, obstacles, and more. We will also offer workshops and drop-in help hours throughout the challenge at Evanston’s Main Library.
Submit your game and earn a chance to win prizes.
Submit a video of your cardboard game before the deadline and you will be entered into the challenge raffle. The more design elements you include in your game the better your chances of winning. All participants are also invited to demo their games at Cardboard Carnival Showcase on April 18th, 2026 at the Fleetwood/Jourdain Community Center.
Stay Up-to-Date
Every week, we will add a newsletter update to provide updates, a refreshed token scoreboard, tips to help you build your game, and upcoming workshops.
“It always seems impossible until it’s done.”
— Nelson Mandela, famous engineer of history
Funded by the Illinois State Library – Project Next Generation Grant
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