La Mirada~A fun-filled weekend of rides, food, and entertainment is fast approaching for the 19^th Annual "4 La Mirada Kids" Community Carnival to be held at Benton Middle School.

The carnival features a variety of activities for the entire family and sees over 10,000 people pass through the gates for the food, rides and entertainment.

Many local groups will once against perform at the 19th Annual "4 La Mirada Kids" Carnival this weekend, April 26-28. Photo Tony Aiello

The initial concept of the carnival-to help local nonprofits and schools raise money for programs that benefit La Mirada kids-remains the same today.

Local non-profit groups including schools, sport leagues, and community organizations will be offering a variety of tasty food for sale and running game booths throughout the weekend.

You can come out and support Benton Middle School Cheer, La Mirada High School Wrestling, Band and Aquatic Boosters, Color Guard, Cross Country, and Girls League, St. Paul of the Cross, Hutchinson Middle School, La Pluma Elementary School, La Mirada Pop Warner and Bobby Sox, and Cub Scout Packs 803 and 919, among others

Exciting rides and amusements will be offered for those seeking thrills.  Gentler, kid-friendly rides for younger children will also be available.

Pre-sale ride ticket books can be obtained for $10 at most La Mirada schools and the La Mirada Resource Center until 3 p.m. on Friday, April 26. Each booklet contains coupons for eight different rides, offering a substantial savings over purchasing ride tickets at the event.

Also, when you purchase your ride tickets ahead of time, a percentage of the pre-sale proceeds are returned to the local schools and organizations.

Entertainment this year will feature crowd-favorites the Squirettes, the Alohi Polynesian Dancers, and more including contests for kids. Tony Aiello, of the La Mirada Blog Media Network will be the MC for the entertainment line-up on Sunday.

The La Mirada Community Foundation sponsors the carnival to raise funds for youth groups and community organizations that provide a variety of educational, cultural and extracurricular opportunities in La Mirada.

Carnival days and hours are Friday, April 26, 5-11 p.m.; Saturday, April 27, 12-11 p.m.; and Sunday, April 28, 1-6 p.m.  For more information, call Community Services at (562) 943-7277.