Setting Up a Traveling Carnival
Typically rides take three to six hours to set up, and a crew of about seven carnies can erect the more than 300-piece roller coaster in about seven hours.
Safety of Fairground Rides
A trip to the fair is in fact a very safe activity. You are actually more likely to be injured traveling to the fair than at it.
Carnival Ride Regulations
Roller coaster and drop tower manufacturer Utah’s S&S Worldwide sets a maximum weight restriction of 300 pounds and includes a sensor on each ride to detect over-sized riders.
Assembling Carnival Rides
Rides and stands are generally transported by truck. The rides generally have wheels mounted on the base and the rest of the ride is then dismantled and folded up to allow for over the road transport.
Carnival Lingo
An "Annie Oakley" is a free ticket for a shooting game. "Bally" means to attract a crowd. A "brodie" is a spectacular fall. To commit a "charley" means to steal something.
Ferris Wheel and Carousel Origin
The beloved Ferris wheel debuted at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. Carousels originated as training devices for cavalry units.
History of Traveling Carnivals
In 1893, the Chicago World’s Fair included rides, games, shows, and burlesque acts. This was the start of traveling carnivals in North America.
Safety Concerns and Regulations
You are more likely to be injured traveling to a fair than at it. Nevertheless, some rides are large and powerful, carrying many passengers. Log flumes are among the most dangerous, often lacking restraints.
Concerns for Plus-Sized Riders
Roller coaster manufacturer S&S Worldwide sets a 300-pound weight limit on rides. Sensors detect oversized riders. This concerns some plus-sized riders about visiting theme parks.