"It's not just for kids, but rather kids of all ages," said Bernie Punt, the Center's marketing manager. "We have laser tag, a mechanical bull, a gladiator joust. Stuff people [of all ages] like."

But those rides are merely a few of the many that will be featured this Sunday; the rock-climbing obstacle Rock Mountain returns, along with Sports Challenge Bungee, and Adrenaline Race 84 Obstacle. New to the playground is the Laser Tag Arena and the Tsunami Wave Surf Machine. And to top it all off, a new and very special ride, which Punt was secretive about (saying only that it is "very dinosaur-y") called Jurassic Adventure will be revealed this year.

As far as the biggest crowd-pleasers of past years, it's a toss-up between the Gladiator Joust and the Mechanical Bull, Punt said.

"Its hilarious when you get these big college guys [on the joust or bull], they take it really seriously," Punt said. "Or when the boyfriend goes against the girlfriend and she beats him up."

The event begins at 3 p.m. Sunday and continues until the fireworks show begins. Punt estimated that between the time the doors open and close, about 30,000 people will come through the Jordan Center's doors.

Admission is free, though rides cost $1 a turn or $9.50 for an all-access pass. Punt said this is to help offset the cost of setting up such a huge event on a national holiday.

He said the event has a community feel.

"We're not here to make money. It's a huge volunteer effort," Punt said. "It's become a community event, a tradition."

For Jill Baldi, who has worked at the BJC from the beginning, the greatest reward from working on the project was watching the families enjoy the event.

"It's just a real festive time, families come together, people have a good time," Baldi said.

"It's a fun family event and I love seeing the kids enjoy themselves."

As for the main event, Paul Silvis, who serves as the president of the Central PA 4th Fest board, said to prepare for a bigger and better show this year.

He estimates 4th Fest, the largest Fourth of July show in the country run entirely by volunteers, will host a crowd of 75,000.

"This year will be more awesome than ever," Silvis said. "Our show is gigantic and involves complex special effects and treats."