Carnival is a traditional form of outdoor amusement that consists of exhibits, games, rides, and shows. Most carnivals today are small and are held in towns and small cities, setting up their attractions in streets and parking lots. The term carnival also can refer to feasting and merrymaking just before Lent . The Mardi Gras in New Orleans is a famous American carnival of this type. See Easter (Carnivals) .
A carnival is arranged around a main street called a midway. The area near the entrance is called the front end and includes the games and refreshment and souvenir stands. The rear area, called the back end, usually consists of the rides and shows. The most popular rides include the Ferris wheel and merry-go-round . Side shows that displayed unusual exhibits and acts were once a main attraction of carnivals, but they have become rare.
Carnivals developed from traditional festivals in Europe dating back hundreds of years. The traveling carnival in America began in the late 1800’s as a result of improved transportation and technology. The success of the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893 in Chicago stimulated people to visit special attractions to different cities. Modern amusement parks include rides and other popular features of the traditional carnival.
