A jamboree that raises funds for charities begins its four-day slate in Palmerton on Thursday.

Crusaders for a Cause will hold its 17th annual spring carnival Thursday through Sunday in the borough park.

The carnival will run from 6 p.m. to close Thursday, 5 p.m. to close Friday, 4 p.m. to close Saturday, and 2-7 p.m. Sunday.

There will be activities of all ages, including rides provided by AEB Amusements (Wristband days are Thursday and Sunday), a mechanical bull which is new this year, bingo every night, a silent auction by Blue Mountain Animal Rescue Society, and craft vendors.

There is to be no riding of bikes or skateboards around the bandstand or carnival area during hours of operation.

Food vendors, such as Dale’s Concessions, Parryville Volunteer Fire Company No. 2 with its funnel cakes and deep fried Oreos, Island Expressions, Caribbean Islands Cuisine, Delicious Dogs and More, and Christina’s Reptile and Animal Sanctuary with their tacos and taco salads, will also be available.

In addition, there will be live entertainment each night in the bandstand, including the Dynamic Duo, Dave and Brenda Rehrig, from 6-9 p.m. Thursday; Hall of Fame Roy Orbison Tribute Artist Terry Harris, from 7-9:30 p.m. Friday; World Renowned Elvis Presley Tribute artist, Jeff Krick Sr. from 7-10 p.m. Saturday; and Roadhouse, playing all your favorite classic rock, blues and funk from 3-6 p.m. Sunday.

Guests are urged to bring lawn chairs, as the benches around the gazebo fill up quickly.

Also new this year will be Clydesdale drawn carriage rides by Steiner Artisan Farm. The carriage rides will be located on the Fourth Street side of the park. Additionally, pictures with Apollo the alligator from Christina’s Reptile and Animal Sanctuary can be had for a small donation.

Christina Obrecht, president of Crusaders for a Cause, said the group looks forward to the event each year, and that proceeds benefit local charities.

“It means a lot to all of our volunteers; it means a lot to give back to the community, whether its local or others out of town,” Obrecht said. “So we look forward to continuing to do that.”

Obrecht said they are always looking for sponsors to help run the carnival, and said anyone interested may call 610-390-1655.

For more information on the event, visit Crusaders for a Cause on Facebook, Crusaders for a Cause, as well as for any updates such as potential closings from severe weather.