It’s food, entertainment, rides, games, and lots to do for everyone at the 14^th annual Family Fun Carnival at St. Francis of Assisi on two rain-or-shine days, Saturday and Sunday October 5 and 6.

On both days the carnival starts at noon and ends at 6:00, featuring inflatables, games, live music, food trucks, drink, craft vendors, face painting, drawings for prizes, and more.

On Saturday (only), hayrides run from 1:00 to 5:00.

At the carnival, young children enjoy inflatables, face painting, the bounce house, and bobbing for ‘apples.’ For older kids, there is Euro Bungee, Toxic Meltdown, and obstacle courses. Bracelets are sold for all-day limitless rides.

Favorite games for all ages include 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 features the band Moss performing from 12:30 to 3:00, followed by the Furious George band from 3:00 to 6:00. On Sunday, Ridgefield School of Rock performs from 12:30 to 3:00, followed by Two of Us from 3:00 to 6:00.

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.