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Gunnar Bradbury takes a turn in the dunk tank May 23 during the second annual Dirigo Family Carnival fundraiser in Dixfield. (Bruce Farrin/Staff Writer)

DIXFIELD — The second annual Dirigo Family Carnival held May 23 at the Dirigo High School football field raised just over $5,000, according to organizer Katie Houghton.

“We welcomed over 500 people through the gates, along with 37 amazing student helpers. We had seniors, juniors, sophomores, freshmen, and eighth graders join us, along with many parents and grandparents who stepped up to help make the day a success. Huge thanks to Jada and Jeremy,” said Houghton.

There were bouncy houses, face painting, carnival games, a dunk tank, music, food trucks and 15 vendors.

More than 500 people came through the gates May 23 for the second annual Dirigo Family Carnival, keeping the 37 student helpers very busy. (Bruce Farrin/Staff Writer)

“I am so proud of these students,” Houghton said. “They spent the day talking with, encouraging and showing patience and kindness to our littlest visitors at the games, bounce houses and face painting, where they showcased some incredibly talented artwork. They ran activities, helped families and kept smiling until the very end.”

Houghton thanked sponsors, vendors, participants, volunteers, workers and parents for making the event happen.

“This event truly showed what our community is all about,” she said. “Thank you to everyone who helped make it such a successful and memorable day. We couldn’t have done it without you.”

She said proceeds will be split among grades 7-12, as well as to support the classes of 2026 and 2028’s Project Graduation.

Bruce Farrin is editor for the Rumford Falls Times, serving the River Valley with the community newspaper since moving to Rumford in 1986. In his early days, before computers, he was responsible for...

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