FULLERTON, Calif., Jan. 6, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- To support autism charities and special education 3,000 attendees are expected at Bourbon Street Bar and Grill's 5th annual FREE family carnival benefit, 'Mardi Gras for Autism' featuring Aquarium of the Pacific's mobile aquarium, Fullerton High School Circus Club, A.skate all-ability skateboarding demonstrations and more, to be held outside Bourbon Street Bar and Grill in the adjacent Fullerton Train Depot parking lot located at 110 E. Commonwealth Ave. in Fullerton on Saturday, March 1, 2014 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Says Larry Houser, the co-owner of Bourbon Street Bar and Grill and founder of Fullerton Cares, "The way we've designed Mardi Gras for Autism, families can come out and enjoy a good time together with their children of all abilities." Houser became involved with autism after his son Boyd, now age 5, was diagnosed with autism.
The family-friendly, all abilities, free event is designed to encourage families to enjoy the fun of Mardi Gras while raising money for Fullerton special education programs, featuring many activities appropriate for children of all ages and abilities, including: Aquarium of the Pacific, Medieval Times, A.skate, Eye Force One, Game Trucks, Magic by David Bonfidini, Autism Live, Police Exhibit, Fire Exhibit, The Dixiedelics, Karaoke hosted by Jake Popoff, CF Dance Academy, Fullerton High School Circus Club, Bounce House Zone, Face painting, Bourbon Street and Fullerton Cares.
Public information: info@fullertoncares.com, 714-213-8831.
ABOUT MARDI GRAS FOR AUTISM: 'Mardi Gras for Autism' festival raises funds benefitting the Fullerton School District's autism programs. In 2012, the event raised over $11,000 for autism. http://mardigrasforautism.com/ https://www.facebook.com/mardigras.forautism?fref=ts Video: http://youtu.be/udmycp_pXd4
ABOUT FULLERTON CARES: Awareness, acceptance and action are the pillars of Fullerton Cares, which spreads autism awareness throughout North Orange County and was founded by Lawrence Houser, after being inspired by his son, Boyd, with autism. Raising funds for autism charities and programs in Fullerton schools through organized events, Fullerton Cares was founded in 2010 and has raised over $53,000 for autism initiatives. http://fullertoncares.com/ https://www.facebook.com/FullertonCaresAutismFoundation
ABOUT BOURBON STREET: Established in 2007, Bourbon Street offers California Cajun cuisine in the heart of historic downtown Fullerton with a menu made entirely from scratch featuring farm fresh, locally sourced ingredients. In addition to a world-class selection of slow-aged bourbons and whiskies, Bourbon Street features a wide array of bottled and draught beer, as well as a comprehensive wine list. Bourbon Street is located at 110 E. Commonwealth Ave, Fullerton, CA 92832 with 800 adjacent parking stalls. Reservations can be made at 714-626-0050. http://bourbonstreetfullerton.com
ABOUT AUTISM: According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), autism now affects about 1 in every 88 American children, including 1 in 54 boys. Autism is a complex condition that affects a person's ability to communicate and develop social relationships, and is often accompanied by behavioral challenges. http://www.autismspeaks.org