For many that come to the Maple Leaf Festival, one of the most popular attractions is the carnival in downtown Baldwin City.

It is on High Street between Eighth and Ninth streets. The carnival was moved to that location two years ago after always being in front of the library. The switch has been well received and it allows for more rides and games.

“The carnival is always a very popular part of the Maple Leaf Festival for kids of all ages,” said Jennifer Hayes, the festival committee’s person in charge of the carnival.

“The carnival will begin setting up Wednesday and will be opening the rides on Friday evening again this year. The carnival will be located in the same location again this year, with a variety of rides and games.”

Many Maple Leaf Festival goers make sure and the carnival rides in downtown Baldwin City.

It was a big step two years ago when the committee made the switch. It’s turned out to be one of the best improvements to the festival.

“The carnival will be where it has been the last two years,” said Diane Wagner, another member of the festival committee. “That seems to have been a good call and has worked well for everyone.” Another recent change involves a discount on Sunday rides.

“On Sunday, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., there is unlimited riding in the carnival with the purchase of a wristband,” said Hayes. “Wristbands can be purchased at the Santa Fe Market in advance for $14.

They will actually purchase a ticket and then turn it in at the ticket counter and then they will receive the wristband.

“If people wait to buy it at the ticket booth the weekend of the festival, it will cost $17,” she said.

In addition to Friday evening’s opening and the wristband offer Sunday, the carnival will also be in operation all day Saturday. The carnival is another money generator for the festival committee.

“The carnival is an important part of the Maple Leaf Festival,” said Hayes. “It generates funds which allows the festival committee to give money back into the community in the form of donations to many non-profit organizations, groups and clubs.”