SAN DIEGO -- Who didn't love going to the carnival as a kid? The stomach-turning rides, greasy fried food, cotton candy, fun houses and freakish delights made for a childhood dream and ever-lasting memories.

Tonight, Bourbon Street Bar & Grill and SD PIX will transform the venue into a carnival atmosphere with a fun, gay adult twist. The popular University Heights night spot will host its annual Carnival starting at 9 pm, as a charitable benefit for Being Alive San Diego.

The carnival event has become very popular among Bourbon Street patrons and other community members who say they appreciate being able to attend an event where their dollars are given back to a good cause.

"I went to last year's Carnival with a group of friends and we had a blast," said Jimmy Bauer, who visits Bourbon Street a couple times a month. "We sort of stumbled upon the event, not realizing it was going on, and when one of the bartenders told us that the proceeds from the carnival games and treats were going to charity, we spent even more money."

The Carnival has raised several thousand dollars for its previous beneficiaries, which have included Family Health Centers of San Diego and San Diego LGBT Pride.

The event will include carnival games, a dunk tunk, cotton candy, hot dogs, popcorn, face painting, clowns, stilt walkers, prizes and one of the most popular treats: liquor-infused snow cones.

Popular community personality Tori Heart will serve as the evening's host and a DJ will play dance music all night long.

Bourbon Street's general manager Chuck Ferrante said the event is a blast and encouraged community members to come out, have a good time, and support Being Alive.

“No other bar in San Diego does this and aside from it being a one time event, your money goes to a good cause,” Ferrante said.

There is never a cover to enter Bourbon Street. Donations for games and treats will benefit Being Alive.

Bourbon Street is located at 4612 Park Blvd.

About Being Alive

Being Alive San Diego is a volunteer-driven organization that works to enrich and enhance the personal dignity and quality of life of people living with AIDS and HIV through mutual support, access to information, public advocacy, and social interaction. Founded in 1989 with just six individuals, the organization now assists over 3,000 people per year through a number of services such as peer advocacy; food and commodities; moving assistance; haircuts and hair styling; social and recreational activities; support groups; and educational programs.

For more information or to get involved with Being Alive, click HERE