The annual Family Fun Carnival runs at St. Francis of Assisi, rain or shine, on Saturday and Sunday, October 7 and 8.

The carnival takes place at the church, 35 Norfield Road, both days from noon to 6:00 pm, featuring bingo, inflatables, games, live music, food, drink, craft vendors, drawings for prizes, and more.

One Saturday attraction is a hayride for adults and children. On both days, favorites include craft vendors, a silent auction, and a drawing for high value prizes.

Children can have their face painted, enjoy inflatables and the bounce house, and bob for ‘apples.’ For older kids, there is Euro Bungee, Toxic Meltdown, and the Football Obstacle Course. Bracelets are sold for all-day limitless rides.

Continuous bingo games will be played both days. Other games include a chance to win at Soda Pop Ring Toss, Candy Game, Pop a Balloon and Break a Plate. For several games, every player is a winner.

Those over 21 can enjoy more adult games such as Win Some Cheer, Mystery Boxes and Outdoor Fun.

Local food trucks will be on hand, offering carnival fare like Italian sausage with peppers and onions, meatball heroes, and hamburgers. Hot dogs and french fries will also be available, as will hot pretzels, popcorn, and cotton candy. Water, wine, and beer will also be sold.

Saturday’s live music at the carnival features New Canaan School of Rock from 1:00 to 3:00, followed by Ridgefield School of Rock from 3:30 to 5:30. On Sunday, Fairfield School of Rock performs from 1:00 to 3:00, followed by singer and guitarist Larry Siegel, from 3:00 to 6:00.

This is the 13^th annual Family Fun Carnival at St. Francis, an event organizers say is enjoyed by people from all over Fairfield County. Carnival chairperson Sandra Jester said, “the air is full of laughter and joy as families enjoy a beautiful afternoon together. We love how this has become part of celebrating fall for so many families.”

Blessing the animals

On Saturday morning at 11:00, all animals and their pet parents, regardless of religion, are invited to a blessing of the animals in the church parking lot before the carnival begins. A tradition, the blessing recognizes that St. Francis, the Patron Saint of Animals, had a great love for animals and the environment. Born in 1181, he preached that people have a duty to protect and enjoy nature and everything in it.