This year the West Belconnen event is back on March 21 to raise money for schools and give the community a rollicking good time.

Joint co-ordinator Leni Cleaves said the event had grown a lot since its inception.

"In our first year it was tiny," she said.

"I'm not sure how many people we had but it resembled a successful fete whereas now it has about 6000 people coming through.

"We have to spread out over the entire oval.

"Getting it [all] to fit is one of our greatest challenges and that certainly wasn't an issue that first year."

The carnival is considered by organisers as a kind of miniature Canberra Show where families can enjoy themselves without breaking the budget.

Like the big show, there will be rides, stage entertainment, showbags, a petting zoo, face painting, market stalls, food, a mascot race, art gallery and more.

Money raised from the event stays in the community.

The Charny Carny is a joint initiative of Charnwood-Dunlop School, St Thomas Aquinas Primary School and Mt Rogers Scouts.

Mrs Cleaves said money from the event has gone to buy educational equipment and fund other initiatives in the area to benefit children.

"One of our mottos is community first," she said. "We are looking forward to the future. It has taken a while but we've realised that we really are a fixture in the events calendar of Canberra."

Entry to the event is free. All day unlimited ride wristbands are available from Charnwood Capital Chemist for $30 or on the day from the ride ticket booth for $35. For more information, contact 0416150804 or visit charnycarnival.org.au.