Power. Prestige. Portuguese bean soup.

From 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. today, don't worry about getting into Punahou School. If you can get to the Makiki campus, it's free admission for all to one of the most inclusive events of the year.

It's time for the annual Punahou Carnival, which is planned by the junior class and manned by students, parents and alumni, to be a massive school fundraiser with an emphasis on fun.

It has all the trappings of a traditional carnival: E.K. Fernandez rides, all sorts of food on a stick and giant stuffed animals to win for your sweetheart.

It also has the feel of a school fair, with games for various skill levels, including a keiki area where all kids walk out winners.

This year, the carnival's theme is "Lights! Camera! Carnival! Keepin' it Reel," but while the decorations will be new, the traditional crowd-pleasers remain: the coveted mango chutney, the Greek gyros, the Hawaiian plates given extra flavor by the local-style entertainment in the cafeteria and malassadas that are almost impossible to resist, especially when you're looking to use up your last few scrip.

Speaking of scrip, the carnival's wide appeal has a lot to do with its off-midway offerings, which don't require consumption of junk food or being spun till you're silly.

There's a live auction and art sale, potted plants and haku lei, and a white elephant sale where you can rummage for bargains on donated clothes, household items, toys and books.

There's even a fresh produce section where you can buy fresh fruit and vegetables to offset the goodies with a healthy meal and a hike back to your car.

Speaking of which, school parking is practically nonexistent and street parking scarce, but Maryknoll School and nearby churches provide parking for a fee.