St Rose Parish Carnival went three-for-five this year, with rain causing the cancellation of two nights of the annual five-night event. Nevertheless, those who attended the carnival were treated to three nights of traditional family fun.

The carnival was scheduled for June 18-22, but weather last week meant opening night was instead celebrated on June 19. Unsettled weather on Thursday, June 20, also meant another night off for employees of Stewart Amusement, but Friday and Saturday, June 21-22, were perfect for those eager to enjoy carnival rides, games of luck, and refreshments.

Within moments of the carnival opening on Friday, the Church Hill Road parking lot was full. Residents and fun seekers packed the grounds under a fair sky.

The ground was still muddy in spots, but the lines for rides, games, and food were filled with people enjoying the event that has reportedly been offered for more than 50 years. Children held the hands of their parents, many standing in lines getting ready to jump on a ride.

In a letter to the editor this week, Monsignor Robert Weiss said the carnival was “a great success the nights we were able to open. It was most obvious from both the laughter and the screams from the rides and the games that everyone enjoyed themselves.

“Our young people were most well-behaved,” he added, “which made for a safe and happy carnival. It is always good to have an opportunity to bring our community and our neighboring communities together for an event that is family- and fun-oriented.”

Proceeds from carnival benefit the parish of St Rose Church.

On Saturday, carnival attendees were surprised — and joined — by newlyweds Pam (Carlson) and David Cicches. The couple had been married just a few hours earlier, inside St Rose of Lima Catholic Church. They celebrated their reception in the carnival food tent before the opening of the carnival, and then stayed well into the evening.

The Ciccheses wanted to give their thanks to the church, they told The Newtown Bee. The couple raised money for Newtown Squires, the youth division of the Knights of Columbus Council #185, based at St Rose Church, by presenting a dunk tank. Still sporting his red wedding vest, Mr Cicchese heckled passersby from the seat of the dunk tank.

Plenty were willing to respond to the challenge.

While Mr Cicchese did that, his wife continued to enjoy the carnival. The entire wedding party, including Mr and Mrs Cicchese, were all sporting bright red Converse sneakers.