Editor’s note: You can read more about CarmelFest 2015 here.
By Joseph Knoop
The CarmelFest KidZone will once again play host to a variety of games, rides, and entertainment for families and young attendees.
Chief among KidZone attractions is the entertainment stage, where a number of live performances are scheduled to take place. Performances include a magic show by CR Ryan, a demonstration from Master Yoo’s World Class Tae Kwon Do, the International Talent Academy, School of Rock’s Junior and Senior houses, and more.
Ryan Demler, otherwise known by the stage name CR Ryan, began performing magic at the age of 10. Now, many performances later, he’s involving his 10-year-old son in the act.
“It’s really fun to spend time with him and watch him blossom into a performer,” Demler said. “I think the audience likes that there’s someone their age there. It helps because magic is a vanishing art.”
Magic puns aside, Demler has made a career out of performing at parties and festivals like CarmelFest, his first time in 2001 as a high school senior.
“A new twist we’re rolling out for CarmelFest this year involves an audience member’s iPhone and Pringles chips,” Demler said. “That’s about all I can say about it, but it’ll be a fun one.”
Demler is scheduled to kickoff the KidZone stage performances with his act “Magical Moments with CR Ryan” at 4 p.m. July 3 and 2 p.m. July 4.
Younger attendees can ride ponies and interact with other animals at the KidZone petting zoo, as well as ride in paddleboats.
Older children may take part in a Eurobungy attraction, which includes a number of bungee-tethered trampolines. Other high-flying attractions including the velcro wall.
“The underlying thing is that Carmel Rotary Club is sponsoring,” said Tom Blessing, organizer for the CarmelFest KidZone. “It’s intended to benefit the community. The stage is going to have a lot of cool acts that appeal to a wide variety of kids and adults. Effectively one half of CarmelFest is things kids can jump on.”
