Come one, come all
(cityweekend.com.cn)
Updated: 2005-08-05 16:03

Disney plush toys maybe seen everywhere in World Carnival. [baidu.com]

"Come to the World Carnival because it is great fun, exciting and colorful," according to director William Stevens. As if we needed any encouragement! Yes, boys and girls, the largest touring carnival, aptly named the World Carnival, is back in Beijing for the second summer in a row. An extravaganza of rides, snacks, and games await all who enter...

A little history--carnivals are a tradition that date back to around two thousand years ago. The first ones began around the Rhine River and were originally harvest celebrations. Gradually they turned into professional traveling shows, featuring competitions, food, rides and dances. The World Carnival is proud to bring this tradition of European carnivals to China. According to Stevens, the 2005 World Carnival's date has been extended into October in order for the weather to play along. Because it's longer, that means that many attractions this year will be less expensive, benefiting all customers. As well, Stevens noted that there will be new additions like student and group discounts.

Stevens cited the novelty of the World's Carnival as another reason to attend! "60% of the rides are new to China,?he declared. Stevens stated that the rides were not ones that would be seen in theme parks in China, rides such as "magic mouse,"which promises dizzying speeds of descent of 11.5 m/s and the feeling of being tossed out of the ride at every corner. As well, the games and toys are very unique, several toys being exclusive to World Carnival.

But on to the info you're all waiting for: the rides. The Carnival's 50 rides are broken down into three categories: "exciting""family"and "children"Prices vary according to ride, the most expensive rides falling in the "exciting"category. Adults can get their kicks on whirligigs like "Batman" Children's attractions include such favorites as pony rides and slides, and the whole family can take a spin on the Ferris wheel.

Those with a competitive frame of mind can take part in such standbys as basketball, darts and bowling, where participants can try their luck at winning one of the many unique toys. Others looking to prop up their feet for a moment or two can stop by the international and Chinese folk shows that will be performed throughout the grounds of the carnival.

In keeping with its family orientation, there will be no alcohol served on site. However, there will be plenty of both Chinese and international food and drink available for those who need an energy boost in-between rides.

Those who were lucky enough to attend last year's carnival should take note that although the venue is the same(the International Sculpture Park)it has moved over to the west side of the park. And finally, if you're heading to other cities in China, you'll encounter the World Carnival in other major spots.  Stevens remains tightlipped about the other venues though, but that's all part of the mystery that surrounds carnivals...stay tuned.

2005 World Carnival
July 22-October 9
West Side of International Sculpture Park, Shijingshan District (exit at the Babaoshan Subway Station)
Tel:010-6518-0618, 010-8825-5582, 8825-5556 or check: http://www.china-carnival.com/eng/gp.htm.