Just because summer is over does not mean that all outdoor fun is out of the question: Fall festivals and fairs are right around the corner, and there are a plethora of these fun events happening in September alone. Whether you are looking for carnival-style rides and amusements or some fresh fall food, these events have it all. There are also many fairs that support local artists, artisans, and vendors, so shop local and support small businesses in your area. Celebrate the cooler weather and stroll a few of these events this month, and be sure to check back for more of the festivals and fun that local towns have to offer later this season!
East Northport Annual Festival
John Walsh Park at the corner of Larkfield Rd. and Pulaski Rd
September 6: 11 a.m.-11p.m.
September 7: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
631-261-3573
Join in on the crafts, vendors, delicious food, games, shows, and more at East Northport’s festival, where there is something for visitors of all ages. Princess Elsa will also be making an appearance at the festival from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.!
Merrick Chamber of Commerce Fall Festival
Merrick Avenue, Starting at Sunrise Highway
1 Broadcast Plaza, Merrick (The lot adjacent to the LIRR station)
September 12: 6-11 p.m.
September 13: 11 a.m.-11 p.m
September 14: 2-8 p.m.
631-499-6824
Shop directly from the source at this unique festival, which will feature plenty of artisan vendors who will be selling handmade and handpicked items. There will also be games and rides for the kids.
Fair and Fall Festival
Post Avenue, Westbury
September 13: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
516-333-2235
Westbury’s annual street fair and fall festival is a free event that brings together over one hundred merchants and vendors. Kids can enjoy bounce houses, carnival rides, a petting zoo, pony rides, and music. The rain date is September 14.
34th Annual Fall Festival and Craft Show
Hallockville Museum Farm
6038 Sound Avenue, Riverhead
September 13-14: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
631-298-5292
This fundraising festival is styled as an old-fashioned country fair, featuring more than 50 artisan and folk craft vendors selling everything from jewelry to candles and soaps to clothing and artwork. There will also be a handmade rug show, wood carving demonstrations, hayrides, a tractor pull, animal and livestock displays, and a children’s activity with fun old-fashioned games. Admission is $8 per adult, $5 per child, or $20 for 2 adults and 2 kids.
Maritime Festival 2014
East End Seaport Museum
3rd Street and Wiggins Street, Greenport
September 19: 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
September 20: 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
631- 477-2100
Help fundraise for the East End Seaport Museum by attending the Maritime Festival and checking out the music, food, art, and nautically themed activities such as boat building demonstrations.
Port Jefferson Dragon Race Festival
Port Jefferson Village Center
101 East Broadway, Port Jefferson
September 20: 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
631-473-1414
Ring in autumn with something different: a dragon boat race in Port Jeff Harbor with local and regional teams racing one another in a series of heats. This event is free, and there will be some local vendors. Be sure to bring your lawn chair or blanket to watch the festivities!
Episcopal Church of St. Margaret - Annual Fall Fair
1000 Washington Avenue, Plainview
September 27: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
516-692-5268
Check out the raffles, refreshments, gift baskets, attic treasures and new offerings from vendors at this Plainview church. The event is free, and all proceeds will go towards relief efforts of local people in need. Rain date is September 28.
Wildwood Fall Festival
Wildwood State Park
Hulse Landing Road (north of Sound Avenue), Wading River
September 27: 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
631-321-3510
Entertainment is abound at Wildwood State Park’s Fall Festival – enjoy wagon rides, pony rides, inflatables, funny photos, environmental displays, children's entertainment, and even a pie-eating contest! There will also be plenty of vendors selling their wares at this event. Parking costs $8 per vehicle.
St. James Day
Lake Ave. from Woodlawn to Railroad Ave., St. James
September 28: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
631-584-8510
St. James’ town day will be held rain or shine, and will be the place to go for shopping, crafts, wares, and lots of fall food.