Smiles, Rides, and Tradition: Fourth-Generation Family Runs Post Oak Winter Carnival

Article By: Jenna Grimm, Student Intern | BCS Chronicle

What You Need To Know:

• The Post Oak Winter Carnival is a family owned carnival that takes place near Post Oak Mall in College Station.

• The event featured a variety of carnival rides, midway games,  and food vendors.

• Attendees included local families, Texas A&M students, and visitors from surrounding communities, with higher attendance during the evening and weekend hours.

• Rides and games operate on a ticket-based system

• The carnival ran from Jan. 30 - Feb. 15, providing a seasonal recreational option in the Bryan-College Station area.

• The carnival had hours Mon-Fri from 4pm-11pm and Sat-Sun from 12pm-11pm.

The Post Oak Winter Carnival offered residents a seasonal entertainment option near the Post Oak Mall. The carnival, which opened in late January and ran through mid-February, featured a variety of rides, games, and food. The event is operated by a family-owned company now run by fourth-generation brothers: Kaleb Crouch, and Dakota Dodson, who are continuing a tradition that has kept the carnival business alive within the same family for decades.

The carnival included traditional carnival rides such as a ferris wheel, spinning rides, and attractions designed for younger children. Game booths lined walkways, where guests could participate in numerous activities. Food vendors provided delectable fair foods such as funnel cakes, corn dogs, cotton candy, and so many other options. 

Attendance included a mix of families, students, and members of the surrounding communities. Evening hours tended to draw in larger crowds, especially on weekends, as temperatures dropped and lighting became a focal point of the event. The location near retail and dining areas also makese it easily accessible for residents already in the area.

“As brothers, we get pumped,” Kaleb said. “We want good crowds out here (and) people having fun – that's all we want.”

For the family behind the carnival, the purpose is very clear: they aim to put smiles on people's faces and love seeing guests enjoy themselves. Workers say that creating a fun and welcoming environment for all ages makes the long hours worthwhile, and the energy from happy guests is the most rewarding part of the job.

“We want people to come out, feel safe, have fun, and enjoy themselves out here, you know,” said Dakota. “It makes me feel like we are doing something right, it's my purpose.”

That focus on joy is evident throughout the event, from the excited laughter of children on rides to family and friends sharing moments together. Staff members say watching guests have fun is what keeps them motivated, and it reinforces why the fourth-generation brothers continue the family tradition, ensuring the carnival  remains a beloved seasonal destination for the Bryan-College Station community, and so many others.