The popular Carlsbad Village Street Faire returns to Carlsbad Village on Sunday May 7, 2023. The Faire is hosted by the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce and is in the 39th year.
The Carlsbad Village Street Faire has been called the largest outdoor 1-day fair in the US. The exception might be the counter-part held in November each year.
The Carlsbad Village Faire is open from 8 am until 5 pm, giving you plenty of time to enjoy hundreds of vendors.
You’ll find the Carlsbad Village Faire in the heart of downtown, along Grand Avenue from Carlsbad Boulevard to Jefferson. The Faire spills over onto side streets as well.
The Carlsbad Village Faire is pretty impressive. Having been a few times it’s not a cliché to say there is something for everyone given the number of vendors. (photo is from a prior Street Faire).
And if you should actually get tired of the Faire there are numerous local retailers in the Village.
They say to expect 100,000 or so attendees so it will be crowded. Be aware that due to number of vendor booths much of the parking will not be available.
So what will you find? Expect unique clothing, arts and crafts, gift items, home furnishings and accessories, collectibles, plants, garden items, antiques, products from around the world, and so much more.
As always you’ll find the traditional pancake breakfast at the railroad depot hosted by the Kiwanis Club. There will be an international food area, and children’s rides.
What a great time to explore the Village, unless you really hate crowds. The Carlsbad beaches are just a couple of blocks away for a walk before or after shopping.
Plan on parking being very limited due to the crowds, and spaces taken up by Carlsbad Village Faire vendors, so arrive early if you can. The good news is parking is free in Carlsbad but you may need to walk a distance.
A good alternative? Take advantage of free shuttles offered throughout the day at roughly 15-minute intervals. Shuttles are located at the northwest corner of Sears atThe Shoppes at Carlsbad (at the 78 and El Camino Real/Marron Road). Another shuttle location is the Poinsettia Coaster Station on Avenida Encinas.
Another travel option is the Coaster train. The train station is a short walk to the Faire.
Need something fun to do outdoors this weekend? The Carlsbad Village Street Faire may be right up your alley.