The Smile on Maspeth Day carnival is set to return on Sunday, Sept. 18, for the first time since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Maspeth Federal Savings (MFS) announced the return of the annual event to take place on Sunday, Sept. 18, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., rain or shine, at the Maspeth branch parking lot at 56-18 69th St. The carnival will be free and open to the public. Activities will include rides, games and roving artists, plus magic, comedy and circus acts.
As the first Smile on Maspeth Day since 2019, this year’s event will hark back to its roots. MFS launched the carnival during the Great Recession of 2008 to lift the community’s spirits. Since then, it has become a community favorite, attended by thousands every year.
“We founded Smile on Maspeth Day in 2008 to lift the spirits of our community. Its mission rings true today, and with this year’s event, we hope to give people a reason to smile and have some fun after these last few years,” said President and CEO Thomas Rudzewick.
The Royal Hannaford Circus will headline an array of performers, with several showings throughout the day. The group has been performing since the 1600s and the act features spectacles like chair balancing, juggling and a motorcycle globe.
There will also be an interactive “pirate-training” show and tour for adults and children aboard a 30-foot pirate ship. Other performers include Captain Faust’s Magic Show featuring Vegas-style illusions and exotic animals and The Muttville Comedy Dog Show which was featured on “Late Night with David Letterman.”
There will also be a bouncy house, obstacle course, carnival games and face painters along with strolling clowns, balloon makers, stilt walkers and costumed characters. MFS will also host a dance party with a DJ and giveaways throughout the day.
“Smile on Maspeth Day stands out to me over my 20 years here at MFS,” said Vice President and Director of Deposit Operations Victoria Grappone. “To see the smile on children’s faces, it’s just an amazing day for everyone.”
