The Dartmouth Mall Carnival is back this year and will run from Thursday, May 2 to Sunday, May 12. On Thursdays and Fridays, it will operate from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. and on weekends from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. The carnival will be closed on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

Attendees should be aware there is a new minor policy this year.

According to the mall’s website, all children between the ages of 13 and 17 must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or chaperone that is 21 years or older. The parent, guardian or chaperone will be personally responsible for any minor in their care.

Each adult can only chaperone four minors at a time. Groups larger than four individuals under the age of 18 will require an additional chaperone for every four minors.

Proof of age may be required for any guests. Valid types of identification include driver’s license, non-driver ID card, passport, visa or military ID.

This requirement will be enforced in order to both obtain initial entry and also remain at the event. The parent, guardian or chaperone must remain at the event with the minor.

Failure to comply will result in being denied initial admission or ejection from the event. There are no exceptions. No refunds will be given to those ejected from the event.

This year, the carnival, operated by Fiesta Shows, will be located between Taco Bell and Buffalo Wild Wings, which is where it stood less than a decade ago, according to Beth Zager, senior marketing director of the Dartmouth Mall.

After many complaints from Dartmouth residents who live near the mall last year, the location was changed. No complaints have been heard so far this year.

Another change to the carnival this year is that there will be food vendors again. Zager said last year, the mall did not start the permitting process early enough for it. 

She added those who may not be a fan of the food vendors available can also get a meal at one of the restaurant locations around the mall.