The carnival rides arrived Sunday, setup started on Monday, and just like that, the excitement surrounding Sussex’s largest event is almost palpable.

Lions Daze at Sussex Village Park begins Friday evening and runs on full blast until Sunday night. Former Sussex Lions Club president and current Hamilton School Board President Gabe Kolesari says setup has been going very well, and the crews are currently ahead of schedule.

And while the event is all about having fun, the roots of the event link back to fundraising. The Sussex Lions Club has raised and donated $1.2 million, and 100 percent of this weekend’s proceeds will help fund even more donations.

Friday, July 13

• Lions Daze Opens – 6 p.m.
• Carnival Rides Start – 6 p.m.
• Men’s softball tournament – All night
• Bingo – 6:30 to 10 p.m.
• Band: Sweet Tarts – 8 p.m. to midnight
• Fireworks – Dusk

Saturday, July 14

• Men’s Softball Tournament – All day
• Parade on Main Street – 10 a.m.
• Carnival Rides, Special $18 Wristband – Noon to 5 p.m.
• Sheep’s Head Tournament – Registration at 1 p.m., begins at 2 p.m.
• Tractor Pull – 4 p.m.
• Bingo – 6 to 10 p.m.
• Band: 76 Juliet – 8 p.m. to midnight 

Sunday, July 15

• Men’s Softball Tournament – All Day
• Sussex Lions Stimulus Day ($2 draft beers) – All Day
• Road Rally – 9:30 a.m.
• Carnival Rides, Special $18 Wristband – Noon to 5 p.m.
• Sheep’s Head Tournament – Registration at 11 a.m., begins at noon
• Camel & Pony Rides (Free) – 2 to 7 p.m.
• Firemen’s Water Fights – 1 p.m.
• Tractor Pull – 2 p.m.
• Bingo – 1 to 5 p.m.
• Free Balloon Sculpting – 3:30 to 6:30 p.m.
• Band: Daisy Chain – 1:30 to 5 p.m.