Magic Money: Explaining the carnival’s cash-to-card system
SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage) — The San Angelo Rodeo is rolling into town soon, and with it comes the carnival and its “Magic Money” payment system. But what is Magic Money, and how do you use it?
Talley Amusements Inc., the company behind the carnival, states on its website that Magic Money is an “RFID-based cashless midway system” that utilizes “superior cloud technology” to “streamline management tasks, evolve our guests experience and provide insights that lead to brand success and business growth.” Talley Amusements also touts the system as being able to eliminate long lines, accelerate on-site purchases and lower marketing costs, among other feats.
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The process of using the Magic Money system begins with specialized cards, which can be bought at designated booths found on the fairgrounds. After paying a service fee to acquire a Magic Money card, carnival patrons can then load it with money using cash or card payments.
The cards can be used to pay for carnival rides and food at select vendors. Should a card run out of money, a guest can return to the kiosks or use the Magic Money phone application to add more money.
The Magic Money system isn’t without its nay-sayers, however. Since its implementation years ago, Magic Money has seen many carnival-goers upset with it over a variety of topics, such as the perceived hassle of loading the cards and the initial purchase needed to get a card.
Meanwhile, the Magic Money app has earned 1.3 out of 5 stars on Google Play across 231 reviews. This trend can also be seen on a smaller scale in the Apple App Store, where 34 ratings have given the app 1.8 out of 5 stars.
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Whether you enjoy or dislike the Magic Money system, it seems as though it’s here to stay. So, if you plan on attending the carnival this year, be sure to make some room in your wallet — you may have a new card occupying it soon.
For more information about the San Angelo carnival, including its hours of operation and pricing for all-you-can-ride wristbands and passes, visit the San Angelo Rodeo Association’s carnival webpage.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ConchoValleyHomepage.com.
