Marion County Parks & Recreation Celebrates Record-Breaking Carnival & Honors Dedicated Team

Marion County Parks & Recreation proudly recapped the success of its 7th-annual community carnival during the county commissioners meeting on Nov. 4. The event welcomed more than 9,200 attendees, making it one of the largest and most impactful community gatherings of the year.

Held at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, the carnival offered a wide variety of activities for all ages, including giant inflatables, interactive games, creative face painting, a petting zoo, spine-tingling haunted stalls, live entertainment, and costume contests. Admission was just $5 or five non-perishable items, with all donations supporting the Bring the Harvest Home Food Drive to help families in need.

The carnival also raised $10,000 for the Friends of Marion County Parks & Recreation Youth Scholarship Program. Over the last six years, this program has generated $35,000 to help approximately 120 local youths access life-changing camps and recreational programs. Every dollar directly funds scholarships that remove financial barriers and ensure all children have the opportunity to participate in Marion County's youth programs.

"Events like this showcase the strength of our community," said Jim Couillard, Parks & Recreation director. "They bring people together for fun while also making a meaningful difference in the lives of our residents."

Multiple county departments and countless volunteers collaborated to ensure a safe, organized, and fun experience for everyone in attendance. The carnival also served as a hub for community engagement, connecting attendees with local nonprofits, businesses, and county services.

Marion County Parks & Recreation thanks its dedicated team and community supporters for making this annual event a memorable success.

For more information on upcoming events and programs, contact Marion County Parks & Recreation at 352-671-8560 or [email protected].