A dream about carnival points either to the need to stop pretense, to take off your mask (the persona, and show the true Self). Or it could be a message to be more outgoing and have more fun.
The image of the carnival often appears when you feel rigid and cut off from life. Particularly, when, in the dream, you are rejecting the carnival, you are denying your own wild and carefree side. Furthermore, carnival is also always connected to the Fool, a symbol that combines the absurd and the wise, and represents freedom. On the other hand, the fool is also somebody who, in a conventional sense, is unable to organize his everyday activities.
Folklore: Advancement. [1]
If you are watching ‘freak shows’ then you have a lack of peace and fulfillment within your home life. Sadness will be coming to parts of your life that were once happy and content.
To dream about being on a carnival ride indicates that you are traveling in loops. It could also represent simple enjoyment; the kind that leave no lasting impression.
To dream that you have run away with a carnival represents that you will have close ties or will be involved with the entertainment industry in some manner. [2]
If the sensation of the dream feels connected to being a guest at the carnival, then interpret this dream through the lens of play.
If the dream is more a behind-the-scenes experience, then you may be connecting to your rebellious nature.
If you observe freakish sights, there is a lack of harmony in your family life.
To dream that you are on a carnival ride, suggests that you are going in circles in your life. It may also symbolize cheap thrills.
If you dream that you run away with the carnival, you will be involved the entertainment field one day. [4]
See also: Mardi Gras. [5]
To join in a carnival and enjoy yourself shows that you will be treated to some unusual entertainment in the near future. [6]
A carnival when masks are used, or when incongruous or clownish figures are seen, implies discord in the home; business will be unsatisfactory and love unrequited. [8]
A carnival may dircct you to look back at an event within the last few days that brought you fulfillment, or point to a colorful and magical experience that you enjoyed immensely [9]
2. Beware, what looks worthwhile and solid may be a come-on.
3. If one has the opportunity to go to a carnival and misses it, one may be avoiding an opportunity that only comes along every so often. [10]
If you are performing in the carnival, you are due for a period of many changes. [13]