Carnival Rides Ready to Deliver Good Times

While the Stratford Main Street Festival doesn't kick off until tomorrow morning, the good times begin at 6 p.m. tonight when the carnival kicks into high gear.

Orange-based Marenna Amusements has brought it's fun-delivering rides and games to the senior center parking lot on West Broad Street. The family-owned business enjoyed success the last time the festival was held, in 2008, and is hoping for a great turnout this year.

"It was really busy last time we were here," said Anne Marenna, who manages the business along with her brother, George III, and their parents, Patricia and George Jr. "Hopefully it will be the same [this year]."

Anne Marenna said the family brought all of its most popular rides, including 1001 Nachts (Nights), a pirate ship-like ride that she said is for "thrill seekers;" the big yellow slide; Super Tilt, a more intense version of tea cups; swings and the Fun House. For the younger set, Marenna suggests 4x4 trucks, the Rio Grande train or the popular Dragon Wagon Rollercoaster.

One notable ride is the Expo Wheel. Anne Marenna said, "It's the only one like that in Connecticut - that style of ferris wheel." She was referring to the way the seats face to the side.

Of course, no carnival would be complete without cotton candy, fried dough, candy apples and other fan favorites, as well as games to test skill and win a prize.

The carnival will be open from 6 to 10 p.m. tonight, June 3, and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. It is located in the senior center parking lot on West Broad Street, right off exit 32 on I-95.

Can't make it this weekend? Marenna Amusements brings its rides to the Orange Fair, the Orange Greek Festival and the Milford Oyster Festival. "We stay local," Anne Marenna said.

For more information about the company, visit www.marennaamusements.com