La Mirada~A fun-filled weekend of rides, food, and entertainment is fast approaching for the 20th 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.

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.

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 $15 at most La Mirada schools and the La Mirada Resource Center until 3 p.m. on Friday, May 9th. 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 is returned to the local schools and organizations.

Entertainment this year will feature crowd-favorites the Squirettes, the Alohi Polynesian Dancers, George Simion and the Bombers, The Shakedown, Glory of Paradise, La Mirada High School Jazz Band, Benton Middle School Band, Gray Matter, the Groovetones, The Maunaloa Dancers, The Tuxedo Junction, Benton Varsity/JV Cheer and more including contests for kids.

Tony Aiello, founder of the La Mirada Blog Media Network will be the MC for the entertainment line-up for the entire weekend. Stop by the entertainment stage and pick up your free La Mirada Blog bumper sticker.

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, May 9th, 5-11 p.m.; Saturday, May 10th, 12-11 p.m.; and Sunday, May 11th, 1-6 p.m.  For more information, call the La Mirada Community Services Department at (562) 943-7277.