First Baldwin carnival will help local economy

Dazzling multicolored lights could be seen by passersby on Sunrise Highway at the intersection of Grand Avenue and Chestnut Street Thursday and Sunday as Baldwin’s first carnival was underway. The first day of the celebration was May 5th, during one of the warmer days of the year so far and concluded on Sunday, after a rained out two middle days. Walking around the stretch of rides and food vendors it was easy to hear the laughter of a child on the Tank or others rides and the “mmh” of a parent drinking a refreshing lemonade.

Franky Jorge, president of the Baldwin Chamber of Commerce, the organization that hosted the event, said the idea came from looking at surrounding neighborhoods putting together festivals on Sunrise Highway and saying, “Why can’t [we do that]?” Starting small this year, he said he anticipates the event will begin growing in popularity in years to come not only to “our wonderful Baldwin residents…[but] it will also bring people from neighboring communities.”

He stated the benefit of the event will spread to local Baldwin businesses, “This gives Baldwin the opportunity to showcase how amazing it can be, and hopefully these visitors will stop by our great restaurants and shops while they are here.” Concluding, “We are very excited to have made it happen and hope to continue this for many years to come.”

Rain dates to be announced by Baldwin Chamber of Commerce.