Around lunchtime yesterday, I happened on a flier for the Olde Tyme Carnival and Fireworks at West Manchester Township's Sunset Lane Park, which was taking place from 5:30 to 10 p.m. that night.
Since I knew I'd be home from work by about 6, I made some quick plans to go with my mom and Sarah. Why not, we figured? It's free, after all!
First, I want to say that this drew a HUGE crowd. More, even, than the Dover Fireman's Fair does on some nights. Much like many small-town fairs, it was made up in large part of middle- and high-schoolers looking for someplace to chat and eat, in addition to the usual contingent of parents, grandparents and neighbors.
We didn't get there until close to 7:30 p.m., and we parked several blocks away, along the street. We didn't mind the walk, and it was nice to see so many people come out.
Best thing about the carnival: LOTS of food stands. Mom and I went in for the waffles and ice cream (and Sarah went for ice cream in a dish); Mom also got an old-fashioned cherry vanilla Coke, with the real syrup flavoring, which she enjoyed a lot.
Not-the-best thing about the carnival: We had some trouble finding the games at first, and by the time we found most of them, around 8:20, they had decided to close them down before it got too dark.
That said, we were able to hear a little bit of the band, The Citations, and everyone seemed to enjoy them. And Sarah played one game where you get to catch a pingpong ball in a net for $1, and based on what's on that ball, you win a small, medium or large prize. You guessed it, we got a small. Most expensive bouncy ball ever, but she liked it.
We decided not to fight the crowds for a place to sit to watch the fireworks, and headed home. Less than an hour later, though, we DID get to see fireworks - out our upstairs window, where we had a clear view of all but the lowest sparklers.
Sarah liked that. No crowds, but a great light and sound show. She had some interesting comments, too, for the organizers... she said, "It's really nice that they buy all the fireworks and do that so people can come see it." She also said the band was nice. "They took time out of their day to come there and play music for the people." I was happy to see her so interested in how such an event came together.
I know there are several other town fun fests coming, including Craley Days in early August. If you know of one - please, post a comment. I'd love to tell people more about these events, which are a great way to meet your neighbors.
