Ayres, Gustavson, Smarte celebrate Carnaval

SAN JOSE, Calif. - San Jose Earthquakes defender Jay Ayres, goalkeeper Michael Gustavson and forward Adam Smarte spent time with fans at the 30th annual Carnaval San Francisco on Saturday, May 24. The players helped host the celebration's first SoccerFest, an interactive event dedicated to encouraging and supporting youth in their advancement in soccer while emphasizing respect and teamwork.


The rookies spent the day at the Earthquakes booth at SoccerFest signing autographs and taking photos with the hundreds of fans in attendance. At the Quakes booth fans were able to get fliers and schedules, as well as enter to win one of the two raffled autographed official jerseys. The Quakes players concluded the day by interacting with fans and facilitating the raffle for the autographed jerseys.


Carnaval San Francisco is a 30 year old event that was created by a group of local musicians, artists and residents who work to bring the spirit of Latin American and Caribbean culture to San Francisco. The weekend long family celebration hosted in San Francisco's Mission District is California's largest multi-cultural event. The festival includes a grand parade, vendor booths, activities and live entertainment.