Carnival at La Encantada

A determined-looking Caiden Rossiter, 2, puts a little body English into his roll while playing Buggy O Bowling. The children, who won prizes whether they won or lost, also played Dino Dig and Ring Around the Cactus, and did a bean-bag and lily-pad toss. There was also face-painting and an animal balloon maker. Mildred & Dildred, 2905 E. Skyline Drive, hoped to match or exceed the $1,000 that was raised last year to benefit the two groups. 

 A.E. Araiza / ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥

Take the kids to a carnival that benefits a ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ non-profit.

Toy store is hosting the carnival in the courtyard of La Encantada on Saturday, May 20.

The kids can play games like Robo Fish Race or Rocket Balloon Launch for $1 to $3 per game, with all proceeds going to , a ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ organization that promotes literacy, especially among our low-income population. 

“Make Way for Books does so much to benefit our community, and we are happy and proud to support and promote them," said Autumn Ruhe, the store's owner. "The ability to read and write puts a child firmly on the path to success. Every child deserves to start their life with that opportunity.â€

Last year's event raised $1,000 for the organization and Ruhe's goal is to at least match that this year. 

Make Way for Books will be there running the Buggy Bowling game and sharing stories with children. They'll also be collecting new and slightly used books and anyone who donates books gets a free ticket to play a carnival game.

Ten percent of Mildred & Dildred's sales during the carnival will be donated to Make Way for Books, as well, Ruhe said.

"Community partners like Mildred and Dildred help us achieve our mission to give all children the chance to read and succeed," said Natalia Hoffman, Family Literacy Program Manager or Make Way for Books. "Make Way for Books relies on the support of our community to provide books and early literacy programs for thousands of young children throughout southern ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥ each year. We are working to make our community a place where our youngest children can thrive. It’s only possible with wonderful partners like Mildred and Dildred. We are so grateful for their ongoing support."

As an added bonus, the kids will win a prize whether they win or lose. No tears!

Other activities include cracking open geodes, treats and face painting. 

P.S. They'll be selling fidget spinners.

Max Bell, 2, gets a his arm, instead of his face, painted by the Queen of Hearts, Silly Tassie, otherwise known as Stephanie Quimby-Greene, during the second annual carnival at Mildred & Dildred at La Encantada.

Event details

What: Carnival fundraiser

When: 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. May 20

Where: Mildred & Dildred, (at La Encantada)

Cost: Games are $1 to $3, but if you donate books, you'll get a free game

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Angela Pittenger | This Is ÃÛèÖÖ±²¥