ASUA’s annual Spring Fling kicks off today at 4 p.m. and will continue into the weekend, with games, rides and snacks for all.

General admission costs $5, but is free with a valid CatCard or military identification. A free shuttle to the fair will be available to and from Old Main and Linkins Hall, and parking at the fair will cost $5.

Spring Fling began in 1974 and has grown to be the nation’s largest student-run carnival, according to the Associated Students of the University of Arizona. More than 25 attractions and 20 food booths brought at least 25,000 people to the event last year. While this year’s festivities will continue Spring Fling’s long-standing traditions, carnival-goers can expect some changes and new attractions as well.

For the first time in Spring Fling history, attendees can pay for their admission and tickets with credit cards, according to Brittany Steinke, a history senior and executive director of Spring Fling. The update was made along with several other service-oriented changes in an effort to address customer complaints, Steinke said.

Another enhanced feature of Spring Fling 2012 is the array of live performances. The carnival will showcase two to three local acts each day, Steinke said, including the 1980s pop cover band, ‘80s and Gentlemen, which takes the stage on Saturday at 7 p.m. Children may find entertainment in the kid’s corner, which now features face painting and book readings.

Spring Fling brings the UA and Tucson community together, Steinke said. Thirty four student organizations from across the university and 19 sponsors from throughout the city will contribute to this year’s carnival.

“It’s so great for me to see the community partner with students,” Steinke said. “We at Spring Fling know that this is not an event that could happen without Tucson.”

Also, as a not-for-profit fundraiser, all of the clubs and organizations participating keep all of the profits from their individual booths, Steinke said.