Fireman's Carnival Opens Tonight!

It’s that time — when the field at Union School is lit up with a rainbow of twirling rides. The field is packed with children gripping tickets and clamoring for ice cream. Teens rush about in giddy packs and parents bump into old friends and classmates they meet only once a year.

It’s time for the fireman’s carnival.

Now in its 119th year, the carnival, sponsored by Tunxis Hose, has been around almost as long as the fire department itself.

“We’ve been doing it for over 100 years and it’s the highlight of the year for Unionville. Everyone looks forward to it,” said Fire Chief Brian Hunter. “It’s the class reunion for everyone who doesn’t have a class reunion.”

At the carnival, which opens tonight at 6 p.m., you can expect to find rides for the little ones, the adventurous and classic rides like the merry-go-round and Ferris wheel. Tunxis Hose firefighters will be making and selling their famous fried dough (with Uncle Bill’s secret sauce), hamburgers, hot dogs and sausage burgers. This year, Hunter said, they’re adding French fries. All the food is just $3. Soda, water and beer are also available.

Hunter said the department prides itself on keeping the prices low, both on food and on the rides.

Tonight is family night, meaning you can buy a bracelet for $16 to ride all the rides, all night.

“That’s $10 cheaper than most places do it,” Hunter said.

The fireworks display is scheduled for Friday night at about 9:30 p.m. Fireworks are set off from the Union School field and are visible all over the center.

The fireman’s parade will be held Saturday, with more than 40 units expected to attend. Stepoff is 6 p.m. in Unionville center. Saturday is also the rain date for fireworks.

A raffle will be held, with tickets available at the fair grounds. Tickets cost $1. The drawing will be done at 9 p.m. Saturday, but the winner need not be present.

Prizes include:

1: 42” John Deere X300 Riding Lawn Tractor From Farmington Valley Equipment;

2: $500.00 Gift Certificate Redeemable at Tower Energy (Oil, Propane, Service, etc.);

3: $300.00 Gift Certificate Redeemable at Monarch Jewelers;

4: $200.00 Gift Certificate Redeemable at Sanford & Hawley;

5: $100.00 Gift Certificate Redeemable at Stop & Shop Supermarket; and

6: Amazon Kindle e-Reader with Wi-Fi, 6” Display.