Millerton Lions Club carnival starts 6-10-10

MILLERTON — For the next four days, Eddie Collins Field will  teem with activity, part of the first ever Millerton Lions Club Carnival.

In prior years, the Lions Club held an annual circus, but last year’s event was replaced by a silent auction and barbecue (that event, held in the fall, will continue). The carnival replaces the circus.

From June 10 through June 13, R.W. Commerford & Sons, of Goshen, Conn., will set up more than a dozen rides and a petting zoo, including animal rides with ponies and camels and traditional circus amenities such as popcorn and cotton candy.

Some not-for-profit organizations in the area will set up food tents. The Millerton Fire Department, American Legion Post 178 and the Sunday in the Country Food Drive will all have a helping hand in serving hamburgers, hot dogs and french fries, the proceeds from which will benefit those groups.

Admission to the event is free, but unlimited ride wrist bands will cost $20 (single ride tickets will also be sold). Thursday and Sunday coupons can be purchased for $5 off the wrist band prices at local businesses in the village. A percentage of the proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to the Lions Club to benefit its general administration fund.

Parking will be clearly marked along Eddie Collins Field, which is north of the village on Route 22.

“We just hope people come in, sit down and enjoy themselves and the sights and sounds of the carnival,� said Sarah Hermans, third vice president of the Lions Club.

The carnival will run from 5 to 10 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, from noon to 10 p.m. on Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday.