Families packed the fairgrounds in St. Davids this weekend as the Lions Carnival wrapped its 62nd edition with big crowds, strong sales and a few new ideas for how to give back.
The four-day event, organized by the St. Davids Lions Club, ran July 23 to 26 and brought together food, games, rides and live entertainment — all in support of local community projects.
Entry was free, and all proceeds will be returned to the community through Lions initiatives, said longtime organizer Al Snider.
He said that while the club has about 100 members, in total, it has 250 volunteers to help out at this event.
“Some come for an hour, some for the weekend. That’s what makes the carnival really great for us,” said Snider, who’s worked 45 of the past 62 carnivals.
“There’s not many places where you can take your family and still go and relax for cheap.”
This year’s big-ticket draw was a $10,000 cash prize, replacing the trailer giveaway that had become a carnival tradition. Bill Brower, who ran the main prize tent, said ticket sales were strong and the cash prize was a welcome switch.
“The trailer was just getting too expensive, and a lot of people don’t want a trailer; they want the money,” said Brower.
Mark Robertson, who oversaw the games tent, said this year’s event went smoothly, with steady participation and volunteers coming out to help.
“Very good turnout. I’m running out of prizes,” he said. “Might have to send somebody to get more.”
The carnival featured Townsend Amusements’ midway and food booths staffed by Lions members and local supporters.
Though the rides drew smaller crowds this year, Familytime Amusements worker Aiden McRae said rethinking the layout could help.
“This spot has started to die down the last few years,” said McRae, who has worked the event for 18 years.
“It could be smaller if it’s going to be this many people every year.”
The Lions Club doesn’t rely on the rides for revenue, Snider said, but rather the tradition of offering low-priced amusements for families.
“We don’t make any money on the rides. Their prices have gone up, but we keep ours the same,” said Snider.
Wednesday’s turnout in particular surprised organizers, and overall attendance remained strong throughout the weekend. Snider credited that success to community spirit and a family-focused atmosphere.
“You just get to wander around, grab something to eat, check the games out, buy a grocery basket, have a drink and watch the band at night,” said Snider.
The third annual Lions Dog Show returned Saturday with categories ranging from “smartest trick” to “waggiest tail.”
All proceeds from the carnival will go toward future Lions projects, like possibly additions to the planned St. David’s roundabout, depending on town approvals. Past projects have included contributions to Niagara Health and eye-care equipment.
“We’re always looking at ways to give back, so we’ll sit down with parks and rec and see what’s on their wish list,” Snider said.
The Lions Club is also bringing back its popular drive-through barbecues, which became popular during COVID, and it’s always looking for new members.
“If anybody wants to come do service work, give us a call. We’ll find something for you to do,” said Snider.
