This year’s carnival-themed Sibs and Kids Weekend, a Grand Valley State University tradition, brought on plenty of games, cotton candy and, of course, fun.

The weekend started Friday night with games, laser tag and a showing of “Rio” at the Kirkhof Center movie theatre.

Events Saturday began with more games and an inflatable bouncing house. After lunch, kids were able to choose between climbing at the Fieldhouse and numerous activities in Kirkhof.

Events included comedian Rusty Ammerman presenting in the Grand River Room, who began his act with a survey of how many kids liked magic. The results — 14,000 to 1 in favor.

“There are certain people in the universe that have a difficult time distinguishing between experiencing the mystery of magic and simply being confused,” Ammerman said.

He began his act with a few card tricks and proceeded to pull out a coloring book. The audience was unsure of his trick.

“The audience is supposed to say ‘ooh’,” Ammerman said. The audience soon complied and Ammerman wiped away a tear. “I’m so proud.”

In between classic ’80s songs, he performed a few more card tricks and his signature ‘magic water trick,’ which involved him taking a drink of water out of his bottle.

“I can’t say they’re the best audience I’ve ever had,” Ammerman said, “But they’re, like, the top five. They’re fantastic.”

Ammerman hopes that he will be invited back for future Sibs and Kids weekends at GVSU.

“I would come back here every day and do shows,” he said.

Not only were the kids offered free reign to have fun, but educational programs were included in Sibs and Kids weekend, as well.

One of the many Kirkhof activities included Herps Alive, an organization that brought in reptiles for kids to see and hold.

The reptiles present included boas, lizards and turtles. Herps Alive travels the country promoting conservation and proper handling of reptiles.

This was their third time coming to GVSU’s Sibs and Kids weekend.

“We really emphasize the hands-on aspect,” said Keith Gisser, the Herps Alive presenter. “Actually holding the animal as opposed to just watching one on TV makes a difference.”

Cotton candy, snow cones and henna tattoos were provided throughout the day.

Tickets were awarded to winners of Wii and carnival games, which could be cashed in for different prizes available at Kirkhof.

The events concluded at the YMCA downtown, where GVSU students and their siblings could use the facilities for free, including the swimming pool, basketball courts, climbing wall and much more.

There were snacks and pizza provided as well.

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