Carnival Had Better Luck in Pittsfield
Singing in the Rain in North Adams
By: Charles Giuliano - May 20, 2008
Mid week we drove by the abandoned North Adams Mall and saw them setting up for the weekend Carnival. But the weather forecasts were not very encouraging as we continue to endure a cold and damp spring in the Berkshires.
On Saturday there wasn't much action as it drizzled. And Sunday afternoon was not much better. But there was that lure of the Carnival. The bright light and rides pulling us in. Fortunately, my pockets were empty so I didn't opt for cotton candy or fried dough as tempting as they might be.
There were a handful of kids ignoring the rain and having all this to themselves. Mostly they were interesed in huddling around a picnic table and sharing french fries.
The Carnies were subdued enduring it all with stoic shrugs. We intereacted with a woman perched on the edge of her concession. I asked how's business. The classic response was "It's not all fun and games." Indeed. The Carnival is on the road some six months a year.
"Next weekend (Memorial Day) we're in Pittsfield," she said with some enthusiasm. The weather forecast looks promising for the holiday weekend. It may even warm up a bit. Carnivals are a lot more fun when there are lots of people.
Driving by on Monday morning they were gone. Not a sign of them. Wow, that was fast. Here today, gone tomorrow. Hello goodby. What was left was the saddest abandoned mall in America.