The location has changed, people have come and gone, but the foundation in which New Albany’s Costume Carnival was built is stronger than ever. The event is free, safe and a guaranteed good time.
This year marks the 23rd consecutive year for the carnival, which was the brainchild of local Realtor Pat Harrison and Mayor Doug England. Harrison is still involved along with the Floyd County 4-H Board and several volunteers. Not only does Harrison greet visitors in her fairygodmother outfit, she also supplies the 1,000 hot dogs and buns which will be given out to both trick-or-treaters and adults.
The event will be from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday at the 4-H Fairgrounds. There will be around 30 booths set up by local businesses who will supply the free candy for the children. There will also be a costume contest and the winners will receive a savings bond, along with inflatables and the Bubble Truck. Kathy Redden, with the 4-H, expects 1,500 children to attend the event.
Harrison said the idea was to provide a safe place for parents to take their children trick-or-treating.
“It’s safe and it’s upbeat. It’s like a carnival,” Harrison said. “So many people don’t know their neighbors, or may live in apartments or are single parents and don’t know where to take their children trick-or-treating. This way you can go have a good time and it’s safe.”
The first two carnivals were held along the New Albany Riverfront. However, uncertain weather forced organizers to look for an indoor venue. The first year only had 12 booths, Harrison said, and the second year she said it was “freezing cold.”
“We like going to the 4-H. We have watched it grow over the last 20 years,” she said. “There is a lot of history with this.”
Redden said the 4-H always donated the facility and wanted to get involved as a community service project.
“There is a lot going on here. It’s a fun night,” she said. “Everyone always seems to have a good time.”
Harrison said she still enjoys participating in the event. She still visits local elementary schools to promote the event. And most of the time she is dressed in her fairy godmother dress.
“I’ve been lucky to stay healthy enough to do it,” she said. “I’ve always been there.”
Floyd County
Costume Carnival celebrates 23rd anniversary Saturday at 4-H
Free event offers safe alternative to trick-or-treating
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