The Smile on Maspeth Day Carnival will return on Sunday, September 18, for the first time since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Maspeth Federal Savings (MFS) announced the return of the annual event to be held on Sunday, September 18th from 11:00am to 4:00pm, rain or shine, in 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 traveling entertainers, plus magic, comedy and circus acts.
As the first Smile at Maspeth Day since 2019, this year’s event will return to its roots. MFS started the carnival during the Great Recession of 2008 to lift community spirits. Since then, it has become a community favorite, followed by thousands every year.
“We founded Smile at Maspeth Day in 2008 to lift the spirits of our community. His mission rings true today, and with this year’s event, we hope to give people a reason to smile and have fun after these past few years,” said President and CEO Thomas Rudzewick.
The Royal Hannaford Circus will headline a variety of performers, with several shows throughout the day. The group has been performing since the 1600s and the act features spectacles such as chair balancing, juggling and a motorcycle globe.
There will also be an interactive “pirate training” show and tour for adults and children on a 30-foot pirate ship. Other performers include the Captain Faust Magic Show with Vegas-style illusions and exotic animals and the Muttville comedy dog show that appeared on Late Night with David Letterman.
There will also be a bounce 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.
“The smile at Maspeth Day stands out in my 20 years here at MFS,” said Vice President and Director of Deposit Operations Victoria Grappone. “Seeing the smiles on the kids’ faces, it’s just a great day for everyone.”
