With energetic families, funnel cakes, snow cones and amusement rides, Saint Bernadette Catholic Church in Westlake expects large crowds again for its Seventh Annual Community Carnival from Thursday, June 24, through Sunday, June 27, which is open to the public. 

"This is a beautiful event that brings the community together in a very safe, family-friendly environment," says Deb Kowalski, carnival co-chair. She adds that her children, who get so much joy from this huge fundraiser, has encouraged her to co-chair the event for four years in a row.

There will be a host of activities every day including different bands, dollar draft beers from Great Lakes Brewery on Thursday, a fish fry on Friday and Italian food and pastries on Saturday. Sunday is "Kid Day" and includes two-for-one carnival rides.  

New this year are laser tag, pony rides and "Taste of Bernadette" specialty food tent. Participants are given an unusual opportunity prior to each day’s opening to raise funds for the parish school with a fitness boot camp.

St. Bernadette is partnering with family fitness specialist, Liz Donnelly of Training by Liz, LLC, to offer “Bernadette Moms Boot Camps.” The classes will be held outdoors, weather permitting, at the school playground on Thursday at 6 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.; Friday at 6 a.m. and 5 p.m.; and Saturday at 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. 

Great Lakes Exposition is furnishing the rides and games during the carnival, which is open from 6-10 p.m. on Thursday, June 24, and 6-11 p.m. on Friday, June 25. On Saturday June 26, the hours are 1-11 p.m. and on Sunday, June 27, 1-10 p.m. 

Tickets are available at the door. For more carnival details go to www.stbernadettecarnival.blogspot.com. To register for the “Bernadette Moms Boot Camp,” call 440-623-0957. St. Bernadette Catholic Church is located at 2300 Clague Road in Westlake.