Carlsbad Village Street Faire
~ May 3, 2026 ~
One of Carlsbad’s more popular arts and craft fairs returns to the Village this Sunday May 3, 2026.
The Carlsbad Village Street Faire is supposedly the largest outdoor 1-day fair in the US, other than its counter-part, the Carlsbad Village Street Faire that takes place in November. The event is organized by the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce
The Carlsbad Village Street Faire runs from 8 am until 5 pm, so there is plenty of time to enjoy the over 800 vendor booths. (photo is from an earlier art fair in Carlsbad Village.)
The Carlsbad Village Street Faire happens in the heart of the Village, along Grand Avenue from Carlsbad Boulevard to Jefferson. The Street Faire spills over onto side streets as well.
Given the size of the Faire and the number of vendor booths much of the public parking will not be available so plan accordingly.
The Carlsbad Village Street Faire is an impressive event, attracting around 100,000 attendees. I’ve been several times, and it’s not a cliché to say there is something for everyone, given the number of vendors and the variety of offerings.
And if you get tired of exploring and shopping at the Faire there are plentiful local retailers in the downtown area to visit.
So what will you find at the Carlsbad Village Street Faire?
You can expect unique clothing, arts and crafts, gift items, home furnishings and accessories, a wide range of collectibles, garden items and plants, products from around the world, antiques, and so much more.
There will be the traditional pancake breakfast from 8 am until 12 pm, plus an international food court. The Faire also offers a children’s area with rides and games and live music.
What a fun time to explore Carlsbad Village? And the beaches are just a couple of blocks away to enjoy a walk before or after you shop at the Faire.
I would expect parking to be very limited due to the crowds, and spaces taken up by vendors, so arrive early if you can. The good news is parking is free in Carlsbad, however you might need to walk a distance.
Another good option is to take advantage of the free shuttles offered throughout the day. The shuttles run at roughly 15-minute intervals. Shuttles are located at The Shoppes at Carlsbad (at the 78 freeway and El Camino Real/Marron Road), and the Poinsettia Coaster Station on Avenida Encinas.
A Free Bike Valet Service will be provided by the City of Carlsbad. Monitored bike parking will be at 2965 Roosevelt Street (Lily Field Realty).
Another travel option is to take the Coaster train (Commuter Rail) – check the Coaster Schedule. The train station is just a short walk to the Faire.
Carlsbad Village Street Faire 2026
May 3 ~ 8 am to 5 pm
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