Video by: Buck Kahler

Photos by: Mallory Bertrand Photography

Steampunk costumes are too hot for summer! But the heat didn’t stop folks attired in leather, masks, and long coats from attending Paulk & Co.’s 2nd Annual Steampunk Carnivale on June 7th. Thankfully it was shady and breezy underneath the viaduct that provides the industrial setting for this unusual downtown party.

Greg & Madeline Lonas pose with Paulk & Co.’s gatlin gun. Photo by Mallory Bertrand Photography.

New this year was an afternoon children’s festival with outstanding displays by The MUSE Knoxville and the L &N Stem Academy STEAMpunk robotics club. Festival favorites One World Circus shared their circus toys with an enthusiastic crowd. Our favorite costume in the children’s costume contest was the Flower Explorer: a pint sized scientist in a ruffled dress and safari hat.

Master of Ceremonies Sean Peck interviews the Flower Explorer. Photo by Mallory Bertrand Photography.

Competition was fierce in the adult costume contest, except for Larry the Beer Hat guy who showed up dressed as a can of Budweiser.

Steampunkers pose with their huge pet and Paulk & Co.’s plane. Photo by Mallory Bertrand Photography.

The Carnivale after dark played host to musical acts Sidecar Symposium and Hudson K. BizCirque returned for a dazzling finale.

Photo by Mallory Bertrand Photography.