The Medford Township Police Department, Father Dan, the SML Carnival Committee, and Skelly Amusements will implement the following protocols to ensure a safe carnival.

The entire carnival will be fenced. There will now be two entrance gates: one off the Route 70 Main Parking lot at the front of the school, and the other at the opposite side of the school across from Town Hall. Everyone must enter through either of those two gates.

Face coverings will be strictly prohibited, hoodies cannot be worn over your head, wand screening will be conducted, and all backpacks and bags will be subject to search.

There will be NO CHARGE to enter for anyone who is 18 and older OR for children under 60" tall or for families. If you are 18 or older, please bring ID.

Friday and Saturday, May 15-16: If you are under 18 and over 60" tall, you will only be admitted with the purchase of a nightly unlimited ride wristband ($30) or the week-long Mega-Pass ($60). Adults have the option of buying individual tickets or wristbands for themselves or their children under 60".

Children over 60" tall with physical or developmental limitations that may affect their ability to enjoy the rides will be handled on an individual basis.

If Friday's weather results in the carnival closing before 7:30pm - the wristband can be redeemed for a replacement on Saturday night. You MUST have an original wristband for a replacement to be issued.

The hours of operation will be Friday from 5:00 to 9:00 pm and Saturday from 4:00 to 9:00 pm.

Carnivals are meant to be fun, family-friendly, fundraising activities held within communities. On May 1, in Maple Shade, we saw yet again, happens when groups of teens come to a carnival with intentions other than riding rides, eating funnel cake or playing games. We are hoping the measures above will prevent anything unwanted.

Over the past two years, there have been multiple carnival events cancelled in the South Jersey area due to bad actors. These events were a fundraiser for charities, clubs, schools and churches within a community. Like our carnival, these events were enjoyable by families of all ages.

We thank the Medford Township Police Department for their support and commitment to ensure the 2026 St. Mary of the Lakes Carnival and Musicfest remains a family fun event.