July 4th fireworks, carnival set at Carson City's Mills Park

Get ready for the sights and sounds of an old-fashioned Fourth of July carnival as tents and rides start setting up today in Mills Park.

The carnival will open Thursday and cap off its run with a fireworks show starting shortly after 9 p.m. on the Fourth. Admission is free.

"If people liked the spring fair, that's what they can expect for this one," said Janice Ayres, executive firector with the Nevada Rural Counties Retired and Senior Volunteer Program. RSVP has been organizing Carson City's Independence Day celebration, along with other events, for the past eight years.

Opening day from 2 p.m. to midnight is Dads Day. All fathers get on the rides free. Mothers will get the same chance on Sunday.

People can buy an all-day ride pass or just pay per ride. More than 30 vendors will set up, selling everything from Chinese food to corn dogs, T-shirts, and jewelry. There will be a beer booth, plus wine and cocktails.

Sheriff's deputies and Carson City firefighters will be on hand.

"There will be rides for everybody, all ages," said Ayres. "We'd like everyone to come, especially families. Everything's very affordable - there's no price gouging. This is a family event."

The fireworks will be launched from Carson High School, across the street from the park. The show this year is being paid for by Al Fiegehen and Don Lehr, owners of the Ormsby House and Cubix Corp. The Ormsby House will not be setting off any fireworks of their own this year, as they have the last two years.

"This is a family event, not a casino event," said Ayres. "People will be able to see the show from the side streets or from a two-story house, but it's free, so come on out."

People can park on the shoulder of Highway 50 in front of Mills Park without getting ticketed.

"Go have a good time, be safe, watch your kids, and be careful crossing the street," said Ayres.

If you go

What: 4th of July carnival and fireworks

Where: Mills Park

When: Thursday, Friday, and Monday 2 p.m. until midnight; Saturday, Sunday, and Tuesday, noon until midnight; fireworks show starts shortly after 9 p.m.