CARLSBAD VILLAGE FAIRE : A Day of Animals, Arts and Keystone Cops

Animals abound at the 16th annual Carlsbad Village Faire as elephants, camels, llamas and ponies parade about from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. A petting zoo and rides featuring some of these animals will also be part of the day’s attractions.

Touted as the largest one-day street fair in California, this community festival also features more than 700 arts, crafts and food booths. A pancake breakfast, certified farmers market and entertainment round out the day.

Also on hand will be the official fair ambassadors, The Keystone Cops. For the past 16 years, these 60 volunteers have helped fair-goers locate lost children and answer questions.

To eliminate traffic and parking problems, a free shuttle service is being provided by the North County Transportation District. Fair-goers can be picked up at the parking lot north of Sears at El Camino Plaza; and the Chamber of Commerce offices at 5411 Avenida Encinas. Buses will run every 15 minutes throughout the day.

What: Carlsbad Village Faire

Where: Carlsbad Village on Grand Avenue. Take I-5 to Elm Avenue and follow toward the ocean.

When: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday

Cost: Admission is free

Notes: To avoid traffic jams, officials suggest fair-goers use the free shuttle buses provided.