UNADILLA – The streets of Unadilla came alive this past Saturday as the annual Unadilla Carnival of Sales returned for its traditional second Saturday in July celebration.

Organized by the Unadilla Chamber of Commerce the event blends sidewalk bargains, antique hunting, and the friendly atmosphere of a small-town in summer.

From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the village's central stretch transformed into a corridor of outdoor shopping as local businesses and residents alike set up tables, tents, and displays for outdoor sales that drew thousands of visitors.

Only one hour after the official start time, street-side parking, and public lots were filled to the brim with vehicles and even multiple horse and buggies which added to the day's rural charm.

A steady flow of visitors continued throughout the day, exploring the antiques, craft tables, yard sales, and the storefronts the village has on offer year-round. The mix of vendors offered something for every kind of shopper, handmade goods, vintage finds, jewelry, household items, and the unexpected treasures that make browsing through it all worth it. Serious shoppers could be seen with wagons filled with antiques going from stop to stop.

Several of the local stores offered discounts in the spirit of the day, and Unadilla's antique shops that operate daily even opened a warehouse-style garage filled with items on consignment. The collaboration gave shoppers a chance to explore deeper inventory and helped the businesses support one another during one of the busiest days of the year.

Food was also a major draw throughout the day. The Unadilla Fire Department's chicken barbecue sent a smoky aroma down the street, while food trucks added a wide variety of things to taste from Caribbean fusion, to classic American smash-burgers, fried gator tail, and even a “brew bus” selling craft beers. While some of the street vendors offered snow cones, lemonade, and homemade baked goods. One stall had cookies that were “the size of your face” as one visitor joked. Behind the public library an actual Carnival had been set up, complete with rides, games, and traditional fair-style food stalls.

Kids found plenty to do as well, with activities scattered along the main stretch and many toys for sale all around.

While Saturday's Carnival of Sales was the main attraction, the weekend didn't end there. The Chamber encouraged visitors to return Sunday for the Cullman Summer Series Soapbox Derby on Clifton Street. As well as the Gillette Carnival running at the Community Field on Sperry Street, the weekend offered a full slate of activities for residents and out-of-town guests alike. The result was a lively, good-natured crowd that filled Main Street from end to end with families, antique hunters, bargain seekers, and neighbors all sharing in an experience on a warm sunny day.

Saturday's turnout made clear that the Carnival of Sales is a major draw to Unadilla. The event supports local businesses, brings visitors in, and has become a summer tradition. If you plan on going next year be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes, sunblock, and be prepared to carry your haul back to where you parked.