The Chemainus Elementary School Spring Carnival returns Wednesday, May 28, promising an evening of fun for the whole community.
Running from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on the school grounds (3172 Garner St.), the event will feature live performances, carnival games, raffle prizes, food, inflatables and a bustling marketplace. Open to the entire community, the carnival invites people from Chemainus and beyond to join in the celebration.
Admission is free, with a mix of free and ticketed activities available.
The entertainment lineup includes performances by the Chemainus Elementary School Choir and the Chemainus Concert Band.
It wouldn’t be a carnival without crowd-pleasers like the Balloon Bros, who will be making custom balloon animals, and face painting by Sunlit Faces.
The Circle Drive Street Fair & Show 'n Shine will bring together the North Cowichan Fire Department, BC Ambulance Service, RCMP Public Safety Unit and the Chemainus Classic Car Club, giving kids and adults a chance to explore emergency vehicles and classic cars up close.
Inside the Spring Marketplace, local artisans and makers will showcase a variety of handmade goods highlighting the creativity and talent of the Cowichan Valley. Organizers say the event emphasizes community collaboration and shopping local so it’s the perfect time to pick up some unique, locally crafted gifts.
Organizers aim to make the fair both a successful fundraiser and a fun, welcoming event for all. So there will be plenty of free activities on offer including temporary tattoos, crafts, an interactive photo booth and a candy jar guessing game, all free of charge.
Classic carnival games will return with favourites like the cupcake walk (featuring cupcakes made by student bakers), ring toss, gone fishing, and knock 'em down.
For more adventurous visitors, the inflatable lineup has blown up this year. The inflated fun ranges from the T-Town Playground for little ones, to inflatable pony hoppers, a fire truck bouncy castle, bumper ball sports arena (roll yourself around in a giant ball like a human gerbil!) to an extreme obstacle course.
Plenty of opportunities to try your luck and win will include a prize basket raffle, silent auction and a 50/50 raffle. All proceeds will support school fundraising efforts.
Once you’ve worn yourself out with games, head on over to one of the many great food options including barbecue burgers and hot dogs grilled by the Rotary Club, plus cotton candy, popcorn and jumbo freezies.
An exciting addition to the food offerings this year will be made-to-order fry bread (bannock) courtesy of members of the Stz’uminus First Nation.
Organizers say the event is designed to be inclusive and welcoming, with activities and treats to suit every interest and age group. The fundraising goal is $10,000 and all proceeds will go toward school initiatives and student supports. So grab your cash and your favourite carnival pals and get ready for a night of fun, food and fundraising.
