The Register Citizen (Torrington, CT)
CITY CELEBRATION
Annual carnival, fireworks display to be held at middle school Friday and Saturday
TORRINGTON » The annual carnival and fireworks display in the city of Torrington are scheduled for Friday, July 7 and Saturday, July 8 at Torrington Middle School.
The event has been extended to two nights this year, Parks & Recreation Superintendent J. Brett Simmons said Monday, because of the possibility of rain. Last year, he said, the weather didn’t cooperate, which may have driven down attendance last year.
In the approximately five years the carnival has been held, he said, 3,000 to 5,000 people have come out to take part in the annual event.
The aim, he said, is to provide a chance to celebrate the Fourth of July and the United States of America for city residents.
“It’s definitely a big draw,” said Simmons. “It just creates for a great community event for families.”
Attractions this year include “rides, games, and food vendors,” according to a press release from the city, as well as a DJ.
The event costs about $30,000, according to Simmons.
Fundraising efforts and admission fees, Simmons said Monday, usually largely compensate for the cost of the fireworks, with any extra money used to defray the cost to other city departments.
In addition to the Parks & Rec Department, he said, the police and fire departments play a role in the event.
The fireworks are scheduled
for July 7, with July 8 available as a rain date.
A decision will be made early Friday, Simmons said, as to whether the date of the fireworks will be shifted. Photos of the 2016 iteration of the Independence Day celebration can be viewed through The Register Citizen website.
The cost for admission is $10 per carload and $2 per person for walk-ins. The carnival opens at 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday.