The reason I LOVE Carnival, is because you get to see the innovation, which to me translates into grass roots fun!
For example:
Sumo wrestling. Why buy hard to get Padded Sumo suits when you can duct tape inner tubes together?
Or what about a home made "Strong Man" contest. (hammer hit, bell ring) using an old car leaf spring, and a block of hard wood (kwila)
We even have an AirShow.... Remote Control Planes and Helicopters. The RC fans practiced to show us loops and rolls and unison flying, on a small scale.
And finally, the Ferris Wheel. A home made (welded and designed) steel contraption, powered by the teenage boys, who jump up, grab a bar, let gravity work, and then let go. It's an amazing feat. No electricity required.
Another reason I love this is because it gives families common experiences that aren't common. By that I mean, if one of our kids were to be in the U.S. and another kid ask them "have you ever ridden a ferris wheel?" they wouldn't feel as out of place and say 'what's that?' they'd say 'yeah, sure I have.'
Only the context would be different.
I personally think this down-home annual 'fair' beats any large fair I've ever been to in California, because it's more simple, it's a fun time at a time when people need something fun.
I can't really say that growing up here means you miss out.
Sure we don't celebrate halloween, but we have carnival.... and it's a wonderful part of living here.
