The Farmingdale Columbus Weekend Fair, the popular annual event that draws thousands of people from across Long Island, is being held throughout this weekend.

The extravaganza, which is sponsored by the Farmingdale Fire Department, is in its tenth year. Traditionally, the event transforms the streets of Farmingdale into a center of autumn festivities. Children, in search of the fun and games that abound, pull their parents to the brightly lit carnival behind the firehouse. Others shop for crafts and similar fall goodies at the merchant sales that fill Main Street. All anxiously wait for the parade to process through the streets, one of the most highly anticipated events of the year in Farmingdale.

The festivities were kicked off yesterday with the opening of the carnival behind the Farmingdale Firehouse. The remaining schedule of events is as follows:

Friday, Oct. 8: 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. - Carnival and Fire Department Barbecue.

Saturday, Oct. 9: 12 noon to 11 p.m. - Carnival, Games, Sons of Italy Las Vegas Tent, Fire Department Barbecue, Live music on stage, Bill Hayden and the Western Steppers with free dance lessons, and numerous bands to follow. Also on Saturday, a street fair from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Hundreds of vendors will line Main Street, along with village merchants' sidewalk sales, a craft show, and children's entertainment in the street.

Sunday, Oct. 10: Same as Saturday, except all Main Street activities will close at 4 p.m. to allow for the parade at 5 p.m., and fireworks at 10 p.m. Sunday afternoon will also feature live music from the Electric Dudes, Another Colour, and Juke Box Saturday Night Band.

Monday, Oct. 11: 12 noon to 5 p.m. - carnival.

The Farmingdale Fire Department is encouraging community members to take advantage of the weekend's festivities.