RANCHO MURIETA, CA (MPG) - The annual Summerfest Carnival will return to Stonehouse Park in Rancho Murieta on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 4 and 5.

This town fair tradition will offer a variety of entertainment for both kids and adults, featuring carnival rides, games, delicious food, a beer and wine garden, and live music. Attendees can enjoy iconic rides like the Ferris wheel and the exhilarating Zipper.

The event is only open to Rancho Murieta residents and their guests.

The festivities kick off when gates open at 5 p.m. on Friday, followed by a high-energy performance at 8 p.m. from Big Crush, one of the nation’s most popular dance bands. Known for their fresh takes on chart-topping hits, creative mashups, exciting choreography and top-notch musicianship, Big Crush is sure to get the party started.

On Saturday at 8 p.m., DJ Louie Giovanni will keep the dance floor alive with his electrifying beats. Famous for his high-energy sets and ability to connect with diverse audiences, Giovanni has performed at some of California's hottest nightlife venues and events. His blend of genres will create an unforgettable night.

New to the lineup this year is Trivia Night at 6 p.m. on Friday and a Cornhole Tournament at 5 p.m. on Saturday. Participants can sign up for the tournament through the Summerfest website.

On Saturday, the Rancho Murieta Association will sponsor Bingo at 1 p.m., with $50 gift certificates up for grabs. 

The fun continues with a Summerfest Poker game at 2 p.m. The wine and beer garden will go cashless this year and will be open both days. Five food trucks will be on-site to serve up a range of delicious options.

Raley’s is the title sponsor for this year’s Summerfest. Another two dozen companies and families are supporting the event at the Diamond, Gold and Silver levels. This year’s Diamond sponsors include Rancho Murieta Homes & Land, Notaries to You, Murieta Equestrian Center, CMCS (Randy and Erika Kremer) and Zeta Broadband. 

Although not open to the general public, a “Summerfest Fever” wine gala will be held on Thursday, Oct. 3 as a special thank-you to the event sponsors. This exclusive evening will feature fine wine, food, music, dancing and even a few carnival rides reserved just for gala attendees.

Tickets for Summerfest are available online at summerfest-ranchomurieta.org or at the gate. 

Wristbands for Friday or Saturday are $35 online or $40 at the door. A Family four-pack is only available online for $120. 

Children under 4 are free, and a 3% credit card fee will be applied to all wristband purchases. All major credit cards are accepted.

The Summerfest Committee has presented this event since 1999. Summerfest is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization run entirely by volunteers. This year's committee members include Sherry Luman-Carrillo, Mike Martel, Jasmine Schmelz, Sid Williams, Lori Ogden, Kim Doughty, Jake Killian, Chloe Carrillo, Makayla Oei and Desiree Harper.

To date, Summerfest has raised approximately $1 million with proceeds going back to the community to support educational and recreational projects for youth and families. 

Thursday, Oct. 3

5:30 p.m. – Closed sponsor event

Friday, Oct. 4

5 p.m. – Carnival gates open

Food Trucks: Allen BBQ, Bangin Bowl, California Street Tacos, The Fry Boys, Daisy’s Desserts

6 p.m. – Trivia Night

8 p.m. – Big Crush performance

11 p.m. – Gates close

Saturday, Oct. 5

12 p.m. – Carnival gates open

Food Trucks: California Street Tacos, Gameday Grill, Hefty Gyros, Smokin’ Ewe BBQ, Cowtown Creamery

1 p.m. – Bingo

2 p.m. – Poker

5 p.m. – Cornhole Tournament

8 p.m. – DJ Louie Giovanni performance

11 p.m. – Gates close