Rain fails to dampen Mariana Resort carnival
With the mixed weather, hot still spills over. Everyone goes for smoothies at the Tropical Chill’s booth. (Jayson Camacho)
Over a hundred community members made their way toward the northern part Saipan last weekend to join Mariana Resort and Spa celebrate its 37th anniversary with their first-ever Marpi Carnival.
Mariana Resort general manager Gloria Cavanagh said the turnout was even better than expected, with competitions heating up for both golf and go-kart races, while family members enjoyed food, drinks, entertainment, and other activities.
Community members got to enjoy reverse dunk, balloon slinging, board basketball, ring toss, batting cages, and other mini-carnival games. Winners and participants alike went home with prizes.
Vendors also streamed in to advertise their products and sell souvenirs. Tourists who passed by or were on their way to Marpi joined in as well.
Aside from the activities and merchandise, Talabwogh Stars, Booyas, Hotel Association of the Northern Marianas Islands, Mariana Resort, and other food vendors sold lunch, snacks, and drinks.
Around 1pm, the Battle of the Bands got rocking with 10 bands duking it out on stage.
Cavanagh said there was supposed to be live entertainment but there was a last-minute cancellation. They made do with stage music.
There were also raffle tickets being sold for prizes.
Cavanagh said majority of the carnival games was set up by the Saipan Little League, Inc. The proceeds from the carnival will go to the Saipan Little League.
Cavanagh said they also offered this event to non-profit organizations, school groups, and organizations as an opportunity to raise funds for their cause.
