Carnival to illuminate dark sky over Seaside Park

    Keith Campanello of Campy’s Blue Star Amusements is excited about tonight.

    While a portion of Casino Pier in Seaside Heights reopened last Friday, marking a major milestone in the Sandy recovery progress, with Funtown Pier shuttered, Seaside Park remains without rides.

    That changes today at 6 p.m., with the opening of a carnival at the Seaside Park Marina at Central Avenue and J Street in the borough.

    Campanello, who is based out of West Paterson and runs carnivals throughout New Jersey, said that he was contacted by Seaside Park officials in January about bringing the event to the borough.

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    “There are no rides in Seaside Park, and I feel very positive about operating here,” he said.

    The carnival, featuring 17 rides and a variety of concession stands, runs through Sunday, Campanello said, adding that tonight’s promotion is “ride all rides for a dollar each.”

    There are options for children and teens alike, with classics like the Tilt-A-Whirl, Teacups, Gravitron, bumper cars, and a ferris wheel.

    A buzz has been building around town, with the rides quickly assembled on the marina’s highly visible green over the past few days.

    “[It’s] a great idea,” said Seaside Park resident Jennifer Lowden. “Taking the kids tonight!”

    And it’s not just for the kids, with Lowden’s husband, John Wroblewski, chiming in that she’s taking him as well.

    IF YOU GO: The carnival runs until Sunday at the Seaside Park Marina at J Street and Central Avenue. Hours are 6-10 p.m. today through Friday and 3-10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

    Ride all rides for a dollar each tonight. On Thursday and Friday from 6-10 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 3-7 p.m., buy a wristband for $25 and enjoy unlimited rides. Individual tickets are also available. The carnival is weather permitting, and there are no refunds.

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