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We previously took a
look at the set up of Dorney Park's
Grand Carnivale, a must-see special event currently running at the the park nightly through August 11th, so now it's time to dig into all the fun that's taking place each day.
The park is decorated from top to bottom from the main entrance all the way to the area surrounding White Water Landing's splash pool. Grand Carnivale is the ultimate international celebration blended with a Mardi Gras feel, and each of the countries being celebrated have their own section within that area.
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Each area also has their own decorations, special activities, live entertainment, and a food stand offering unique treats and beverages. To say the top part of Dorney Park looks impressive is an understatement in my opinion, the level of decorations and fun that is packed into the area is top notch. The entire event is unlike anything that Dorney Park has ever done before, and they're pulling it off wonderfully.
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This map, direct from the park, gives an idea of what I'm talking about. You'll also note that in addition to the themed sections (Italy, India, China, France and Germany) there is also a parade route, we'll get to that in just a bit. The fun kicks off at 5 pm with an opening ceremony with the King and Queen of Grand Carnivale, after which all the live entertainment, activities and food service begins.
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Mixed into all the fun is an Adventure Club Challenge, where visitors can stop in at each country (above is the Italy check in) while on a trek around the globe. The club challenge comes with a guide book that walks you though the process of solving "clever clues and mind-bending puzzles" in order to gain admittance to the Club. There's also craft areas within each country where you can create a variety of items themed to each land, and you can even mail out postcards while on your travels.
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Live entertainment is a huge portion of Grand Carnivale, and during the event there is something going on pretty much everywhere you turn. Each country has their own stage and there are shows scheduled on each on a rotating basis, which makes it much easier to catch them all if you plan it right.
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Indian Drummers, aerialists in China, authentic French songs being performed... there's a big mix of shows to catch during Grand Carnivale. And they're not hard to find, something I've noted about Dorney Park's version of Grand Carnivale is that it is a bit more condensed than at some of the larger Cedar Far parks... and I think it really works in their favor. You can walk from one performance stage to another in about 30 seconds, very helpful when exploring.
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Another highlight was the Oomph Delics, which performed in the Germany area. The music is both fun and feels kind of silly, but it had people dancing all over the midway. A ton of fun and the performers have a great sense of humor.
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Just fast forwarding a bit, the end of the night features another large production on the giant stage the park built for Grand Carnivale, located just behind the Antique Carousel. Hot Summer Nights is the park's current live show that can be seen toward the end of the evening. It's a great production that keeps the vibe of the party going strong.
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I also have to note that the infrastructure that Dorney Park added to the Main Midway area to accommodate all the lighting and music required for Grand Carnivale is paying off big time. The park looks beautiful all lit up, with twinkling lights in the trees and bright colors everywhere. I hope the park takes full advantage of the set up for other events, such as Haunt and possibly more in the future.
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Around 8:30 the Spectacle of Color Parade begins, which is also something that the park has never featured before. This isn't just a marching band style parade, this is on a much grander scale. There's over 100 costumed performers in the parade, an original soundtrack (which you will wake up with in your head the next day!) and custom designed floats - and beads, LOTS of beads!
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The parade is beautiful and full of energy, brightly lit and best viewed after the sun has set. With the days getting a bit shorter now, that's easier and I suggest watching the parade near the end of its route on the Main Midway to get the best views.
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There's a giant float that represents each of the featured countries, with plenty of performers (like the Can-Can girls just before the France section in the above photo). Each one seems more impressive than the previous one, and at the end are three floats that feature lucky families that signed up to take a ride and throw out a ridiculous amount of beads.
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The Spectacle of Color Parade has three performance points during a usual evening, one near the Wild Mouse, and two on the Main Midway, one on each side as it travels up and back down it. That's when the parade becomes interactive, as the performers invite guests to dance with them, and some of the floats have interactive elements. For instance, the India float is an elephant made of drums, and kids get to help make some noise during the stops. It's a great way to involve the crowd!
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All the fun will probably have everyone rather hungry, and Grand Carnivale is prepared for that. As we said there is a food location for each country, each serving several dishes authentic to their nation. There are 15 in all to try, so make sure you're hungry! The tastings can be purchased individually but it makes a lot more sense to get a lanyard for $30 that lets you try six items. From savory to sweet, there's something for everyone!
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As the night continues there is continue entertainment on the main stage, several times there was a super high-energy DJ who kept things lively and fun. Many of the parade floats will park in the area for photos to be taken, and all the parade's performers come out and dance and interact with the crowd. The street party is a wonderful way to wind down the night. And watch the skies for a special treat at the very end of the night on weekend days!
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If you haven't already checked out
Grand Carnivale, I suggest you make it a top priority to get to the park and take in all the fun! The event runs every evening (so long as the weather allows) now through August 11th!
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