[ccfic caption-text format="plaintext"]
Two young girls enjoy a leisurely ride. Photos by Daniel Curtin
By Daniel Curtin
Hometown Weekly Reporter
Crowds of people came out on Saturday to enjoy the bright lights and raucous atmosphere outside Needham High School, where a carnival was being held. The carnival, which was put on by the Needham Rotary Club, ran for four days, starting last Thursday and finishing up on last Sunday.
Attendees enjoyed a variety of delicious food, from cotton candy and hot dogs to fried dough. The carnival featured several different rides and games, giving individuals of different age groups several ways to enjoy the festivities.
Elizabeth Perry, who attended the carnival with her family, was pleased with the different attractions available to her kids.
“We didn’t have anything to do this afternoon and we thought this would be a fun way to entertain our four-year-old twins,” Perry said. “They’re having a blast. This is great. It’s very family-friendly; there are lots of rides that are age-appropriate for my four-year-olds and not too overwhelming. It has been a great experience so far.”
Younger visitors to the carnival enjoyed a large slide and a chair swing that took the kids in circles several feet up in the air.
Ted Shaughnessy, who is member of the Rotary Club of Needham, was happy that so many people were enjoying their carnival experience.
Parents and children alike enjoyed the super slide. Photos by Daniel Curtin
“Look at any of these kids’ faces. Look at anybody's face - they’re all happy, they’re all smiling, they’re all laughing. You see people coming out [of the carnival], and they’re all holding prizes that they won,” Shaughnessy said.
Steven Williams, who was working at the carnival, helped make sure the rides were running properly and that everything was safe.
“As long as everyone is safe, that is all that matters to me. Then everyone [can] have a good time,” Williams said.
Vadim Afonkim, who was enjoying the nice weather at the carnival with his family, summed it up rather well. “Well, the kids always like this stuff - the different rides and the different games,” he said.
“It’s a beautiful day and a great family event.”
