Traveling Carnival Opens in Asheboro Today, Runs Through the 21st

ASHEBORO — A traveling carnival rolls into town today and sticks around through June 21, with rides, games and food for the whole family.

If you're coming down E. Dixie Drive, it'll be hard to miss — it's set up in front of an old plant off E. Dorsett Avenue, between S. Fayetteville Street and 3rd Street, near the Charter Communications office by the Shoppers on Dixie shopping center. Guest parking is available across the street fromthe plant on E Dorsett Ave, and staff say there will be signs and people directing traffic.

On weekdays, expect it open from 5 to 10 p.m., possibly later if it's busy. Weekends usually start at 2 p.m., but organizers say they are planning to delay opening until 4 p.m.on hotter days.

There are 16 rides total: seven thrill rides for teens and adults, three intermediate rides the whole family can enjoy, and six kiddie rides for the little ones. The carnival is run by Michael's Enterprises out of Fayetteville.

An all-rides armband costs $30, or you can buy individual tickets. Games and vendors will accept debit cards.

Every ride has been inspected by the North Carolina Department of Labor and carries a sticker showing it's passed. N.C. Dept of Labor inspector has been on site the two days this week checking everything out. 

North Carolina requires rides to meet 100% of the manufacturer's specs before they can operate — one of the toughest standards in the country — and Michael, who's been running rides for 37 years, says the company has never failed an inspection in the state.

Police will be on hand throughout the event for security. The carnival is operated by Michael’s Enterprises out of Fayetteville N.C.