Carnival Kicks Off in Downtown Birmingham

'Tis the season for outdoor festivals, block parties and, you guessed it — carnivals.

Locally, that means it's time for the 53rd Annual Birmingham Village Fair. Festivities commenced at noon on Thursday, when attendees flocked downtown for rides, entertainment, games and carnival fare.

Admission is free, but party-goers can spring for $20 wristbands (you can buy online) to reap unlimited ride benefits on Thursday, Friday or Sunday. Shain Park serves at the epicenter for the soiree. It is hosted each year by the Birmingham Chamber of Commerce. 

“The Village Fair is a Birmingham tradition like no other,” chamber president Joe Bauman said, in a statement. “People ... tell us stories all the time about how they attended the fair with their parents when they were young, and now they take their kids. It truly is a neighborhood, community-based carnival.”

Plan your visit with the following hours of operation in mind:

• Thursday, June 2: Noon to 10 p.m.
• Friday, June 3: Noon to 11 p.m.
• Saturday, June 4: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• Sunday, June 5: Noon to 9 p.m.

Fair funds facilitate chamber efforts to connect and promote local businesses.

Accompanying Patch photo courtesy of photographer Ed Morykwas.