Kendall cancels annual firemen’s carnival due to Covid-19
File photos by Tom Rivers: The Kendall Firemen’s Carnival, an annual tradition for generations, includes carnival games, rides, a parade and lots of food and live music. The Kendall Firemen’s Carnival is the last one in Orleans County. Firefighters say it takes a big group of volunteers, plus community support, to keep the event going.
KENDALL – The Kendall Fire Department has announced it is canceling the annual firemen’s carnival due to public health concerns with the Covid19 pandemic.
Kendall is the last fire department in Orleans County that puts on an annual carnival with midway rides. The three-day event was planned for June 18-20.
“We believe for the safety of the community as a whole it would be irresponsible of us to continue with the carnival,” Kendall Fire Chief Bryan Hardenbrook posted on the fire department’s Facebook page. “The very nature of the event is getting closer with your neighbors. This choice was a hard, but necessary one. We care about each and every person in the community and we believe this is the right decision to keep people safe.”
The carnival is a big fundraiser for the Fire Department, besides being a fun community gathering.
“It is what keeps the lights on and maintains our buildings and grounds,” Hardenbrook said.
He thanked the community for its strong support over the years with its attendance at the carnival.
“You always show up and show how much you care,” he said. “Year after year you come in droves and ride the rides, have dinner, enjoy the bands in the beer tent, and just have a good time at the Carnival.”
The fire department is working on a craft show and vendor fair for Aug. 28-29.
The midway rides are a popular draw to the annual Kendall Firemen’s Carnival. Many fire departments used to put on an annual carnival. Kendall is the last one in Orleans County that still does the big event. It won’t be happening this year due to concerns about the Covid-19 pandemic.
