A Carnival at Westgate Plaza? Albany Is Giving It a Shot

When you think of carnivals in the Capital Region, places like county fairgrounds, parks, and mall parking lots probably come to mind. Westgate Plaza in Albany? Maybe not.

But that's exactly where a traveling carnival is setting up this week, and honestly, I kind of like the idea.

Iconic Westgate Plaza sign hangs over Central Ave in Albany. Photo: Google Maps

Gillette Shows, the same company that recently brought a carnival to Saratoga County's Wilton Mall, is bringing rides, games, and plenty of classic fair food to Westgate Plaza on Central Avenue from June 17th through June 21st.

Westgate Mall, with its iconic old-fashioned sign that towers over Central Ave, has been around since 1957 and is considered the first mall in the Capital Region.

Photo: Canva

Visitors can expect a mix of family rides, thrill rides, carnival games, Ferris wheels, fried dough, funnel cakes, cotton candy, and all the sights and sounds that make summer carnivals such a popular tradition.

According to event organizers, unlimited ride wristbands will be available each day, and both cash and cards will be accepted for ride purchases. Some food vendors and games may be cash-only, though ATMs will be available on-site.

Parking lot of Westgate Plaza in Albany Photo: Google Maps

The carnival will run Wednesday and Thursday from 5 PM to 9 PM, Friday from 5 PM to 9 PM, Saturday from 1 PM to 9:30 PM, and Sunday from 1 PM  to 7 PM, and will take place in the ginormous parking lot.

Beyond the rides and food, I think it's worth giving Albany some credit here. Not every event is guaranteed to be a home run, but cities grow when they're willing to try new things.