The Burtonsville Fire Department hosted a carnival off route 198 for 10 straight days in an effort to raise money for the department as well as help raise money for local hospitals.

Many local community members attended the carnival, which was open from 6:30 pm to 11:00 pm on weekends and 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm on the weekdays.

Families were out early during the opening time of the carnival, getting in line for the bumper cars or trying to win a jumbo bear prize at the stands. A populous teenage crowd filled the fairgrounds 8:30 PM and many students came out to support and enjoy the carnival. A large amount of Paint Branch students displayed their support on Saturday night.

“It’s a good crowd, a lot of new faces and fresh smiles,” commented a carnival staff member of the carnival.  “I’m looking forward to all the funding being given to the fire department, it looks great out here.” Tickets ranged from a dollar apiece to twenty dollars for an all-ride wristband. Rides included a Ferris wheel, kiddy car rides, balloon poppers, and many more.

“It’s a nice crowd, nice vibe, everyone’s just enjoying themselves in the nice weather. My favorite ride is the one that flips you upside down!” said Kaila Wallace. “It was awesome.” Foods available for purchase included were mainly hamburgers, cheeseburgers, French fries and other delicious carnival sweets like fried Oreos, funnel cake, and onion rings.

“I’m having a sweet tooth just by looking at the menu tonight; everything looks so good!” added Paint Branch student Michelle Espinoza as she waited in line for her night’s snack. However, the food was not as reasonably priced as some would have liked. Prices ranged from $2 for a small drink to $8 for a sandwich. The carnival seemed to exceed its estimated occupancy, meaning more money for the fire department and hospital funding.