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The three-day carnival, which opens at 6 p.m. Friday, is the rotary’s biggest fundraiser of the year. Proceeds from the event are donated to a number of local and international causes, Rotarian Pat Russo said.
“We’re typically able to help between 10 and 15 organizations with the money we raise from the carnival,” said Russo, who oversees carnival operations. “We not only support Wilton organizations but have a few international charities we support.”
Some of the organizations and causes Wilton Rotary supports include Wilton Social Services, Wilton Library, Wilton Commons, Trackside Teen Center, Fire Protection for Seniors, the Domestic Violence Crisis Center in Norwalk and PolioPlus — Rotary International’s program dedicated to eradicating polio.
The carnival will feature a variety of rides, a rock-climbing wall, games and, of course, food. In addition to the typical carnival fare, such as candy apples, popcorn and cotton candy, Wilton’s Burrito Shack and College Creamery also will be on hand.
This year’s rides and attractions will once again be operated by Tufano Amusements, a Cheshire-based company. The Wilton Rotary Club has worked with this company for the past 10 years at least, Russo said.
Realizing some people may be concerned about ride safety after the recent incident at the Norwalk Oyster Festival, Russo said Tufano Amusements not only has a clean safety record but also undergoes rigorous ride inspections.
“All their rides get inspected by the state once a week after every event, and again by local officials before they open up at a new venue,” Russo said. “They are a family-owned, proven amusement company with a long track record, not a fly-by-night operation. We feel very comfortable working with them.”
The carnival is located at the corner of Route 7 and School Road. Hours are 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, noon to 10 p.m. Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday.
Wristbands can be purchased for $25 and give guests unlimited ride access during designated time slots. Wristband times follow carnival hours on Friday and Sunday, but on Saturday, there will be two different time slots: noon to 5 p.m. and 5 to 10 p.m.
In addition to wristbands, individual tickets will be available for purchase.
“We hope people will continue to support us and have a great time,” Russo said.
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