Redondo Beach Carnival - Beloved Seaside Amusement Park Tradition

Exploring the Charming Redondo Beach Carnival

Known for its beautiful beaches, seaside charm, and festive community, Redondo Beach has become a popular destination in the South Bay area of Los Angeles County. One of the treasured traditions that both locals and visitors look forward to is the annual Redondo Beach Carnival.

A Beloved Community Tradition

The Redondo Beach Carnival has been a beloved community tradition for over 70 years. Since its inception in the late 1940s, it has grown into a highly anticipated annual event that draws over 100,000 visitors every year. The carnival is hosted by the Redondo Beach Pier Association and takes place right along the scenic waterfront area next to Veteran’s Park and the historic Redondo Beach Pier.

Taking Place in May

The carnival usually occurs for five consecutive days in May every year. The specific dates may vary, but it generally takes place during the third weekend of May. This year, the carnival is set to run from May 18th through May 22nd, filling the festive summer air with delighted screams of carnival-goers enjoying amusement park rides, playing carnival games to win giant plush prizes, and indulging in classic carnival treats.

Unlimited Ride Passes

What makes the Redondo Beach Carnival extra special is that guests can purchase ride wristbands which offer unlimited access to all of the amusement park rides. Since rides can add up cost-wise when paying for individual tickets, unlimited ride wristbands provide excellent value. There are rides suitable for all age groups, from thrilling rides like the Sea Dragon rollercoaster to gentler rides like the Merry-Go-Round Carousel that even toddlers can enjoy.

Thrilling Carnival Rides and Games

In addition to the spectacular beachfront views, what keeps guests coming back year after year are all the exciting rides, challenging games, and old-fashioned carnival nostalgia. Some of the most popular rides include:

• Sea Dragon: This is a high-thrill rollercoaster that races up to 40 mph with spins, sharp turns, and gravity-defying drops perfect for adrenaline junkies.
• Mach 1: Lay flat against a vertical wall as you’re spun around at high speeds while the floor below you drops out.
• Cliff Hanger: This thrill ride lifts you 60 feet into the air before free falling at exciting speeds.

Carnival Games of Skill

The Redondo Beach Carnival wouldn’t be complete without rows of colorful, flashing carnival games just waiting for guests to test their skills. Booths line the park with games like:

• Basketball free throw shooting challenges
• High striker strength test bell games
• Ball and bucket tossing games
• Balloon and dart throwing challenges
• Milk bottle pyramid stacking
• Ring tosses over prizes

Those who excel at these games of skill can win fun carnival prizes like giant plush animals, play sets, sports equipment, and toys to take home.

Tasty Carnival Food Favorites

In addition to rides and games, no carnival experience would be complete without digging into classic carnival cuisine. Enjoy fan favorite bites and sweet treats like:

Funnel Cakes

Crispy, golden brown funnel cakes coated in sweet powdered sugar make for a quintessential carnival meal. Enjoy plain funnel cakes that allow the richness of the fried dough to shine or opt for inventive flavors like S’mores funnel cake topped with marshmallows, chocolate sauce, and graham crackers.

Turkey Legs

Giant, meaty smoked turkey legs have become a carnival staple, offering a hearty, handheld meal that’s perfect for strolling the park. Savor the smoky, salty, sweet flavors as you walk around taking in all the sights and sounds.

Cotton Candy

Get your sugar fix from clouds of bright blue, pink, and rainbow cotton candy spun right in front of you. Cotton candy makes a nostalgic treat to nibble on between rides.

In addition to these favorites, you’ll find booths and food trucks serving up crispy corn dogs, giant pretzels, buttery popcorn, fluffy churros, and cold refreshing lemonade to help you stay fueled for full day of activities.

Family-Friendly Affordable Fun

The Redondo Beach Carnival makes for an excellent budget-friendly attraction perfect for visitors and locals alike thanks to its $1 entry fee. Wristbands for unlimited rides cost between $30-$50 per guest, depending on if you visit on a weekday or weekend. Otherwise, you can purchase individual ride tickets at each attraction. Carnival games and food cost a few dollars each. Compared to pricey theme parks, carnivals make a great value-for-money family activity.

Convenient Carnival Hours

The carnival runs from the afternoon through the late evening to accommodate school and work schedules. The carnival is open weekdays from 4 PM to 11 PM and weekends from 12 PM to 11 PM. This allows families to come for a few hours in the evening on a school night or make a full afternoon and evening of it on the weekend.

Prime Seaside Location

The carnival’s premier seaside setting creates a scenic atmosphere where guests can enjoy sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and beach landscapes adjacent to all the excitement. Located right next to the iconic Redondo Beach Pier which extends out over 500 feet above the water, the carnival allows visitors to combine a day of rides and games with beach and pier fun.

Make a full day out it by walking along the waterfront restaurants and shops, playing beach volleyball, swimming, searching for seashells, fishing off the pier, and watching spectacular sunsets over the ocean. The carnival’s prime beachfront placement enhances the entire experience.

Save the Dates!

The 2023 Redondo Beach Carnival will make lasting summer memories with five festive days of amusement rides, challenging carnival games, tasty carnival cuisine, and stunning beach scenery. It’s an excellent annual tradition offering affordable family fun for tourists and locals alike. So be sure to mark your calendars for May 18th-22nd this year and start planning your visit to this beloved Southern California carnival tradition.

FAQs

What are the dates for the 2023 Redondo Beach Carnival?

The 2023 Redondo Beach Carnival will take place May 18th through May 22nd.

What are the carnival hours?

On weekdays, the carnival is open from 4 PM to 11 PM. On weekends, it is open from 12 PM to 11 PM

How much do unlimited ride wristbands cost?

Unlimited ride wristbands cost $30 on weekdays and $50 on weekends per guest.

What kinds of rides and games are at the carnival?

There are rides like rollercoasters and spinning rides as well as carnival games like basketball shoots, strength tests, milk bottle pyramid stacking, and more. Prizes include giant plush animals and toys.

Can you see the beach and pier from the carnival?

Yes, the carnival is conveniently located right next to the beach so you see beautiful ocean views while enjoying the festivities.