16th Annual Long Island Fall Festival

In its 16th year, the Long Island Fall Festival is the largest in the New York tri-state area. This four day festival attracts over 10,000 families each year, taking place October 9-12. Admission is free because the event is funded by the sponsorship of 25 vendors, some of which are news stations, colleges, banks and radio stations. In an effort to attract as many people as possible, the Huntington Chamber of Commerce also provided shuttles to and from the railroad station in Huntington free of charge. Even though the number of commuters was large, cars still lined the streets for miles, and on Sunday all of Main Street was closed off for the parade.

The festival took place at Heckscher Park in Huntington, NY, which is a 25-acre park that hosts several outdoor events. It also features a small art museum which, according to the New York Times, has an international reputation.

The festival features a carnival, several food vendors and four days worth of live entertainment. Each day offered something different. Friday was the opening night of the event, and featured a performance by Lexi Saal, an 11 year old singer and songwriter who wrote her song, “Thank You”, in dedication to the United States troops.

Saturday and Sunday were the busiest of the four days. Live performances spanned from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., featuring several varieties of bands, speakers, short plays, soloists and comedy acts. Over 300 art and craft vendors lined the streets of the festival. A petting zoo and pony rides were also an attraction available for children. And after sunset, the festival came alive with bright lights which you could see from a mile away.

Monday was Columbus Day and schools were closed; many children swarmed to the festival for its last day. It was the least busy day, but nonetheless kids took full advantage of the carnival and the rides were still spinning and swaying. The festival was alive with the sounds of giggles and excited screams as children raced from one ride to the next.

The festival is very kid-friendly, says one particular parent. Her son, Finn Meagher, who is four years old, said he went to the festival three different days. “My favorite ride at the festival is the spinning strawberries.” He said. “And I really like the corn!” He exclaimed while wiping buttery kernels from his mouth. His parents had also brought their 3-year-old daughter. “This is a great event for our family.” Tori Meagher said, “There really is something for all of us and I love the opportunity it gives my family to spend time together.” Meagher said she also found enticing attractions for herself, such as the free massage and manicure offered by the Verizon sponsor booth.

There were over 150 vendors participating in the festival, and that isn’t including the craft booths. News reporters and cameras flooded the grounds like a river, several business individuals focused on networking and expanding their clientele, but most of all, the festival focused on fun, say the Festival Chairman, Larry Kushnick. He also exclaimed that he was very excited about this year’s annual festival, “We have added unique events and attractions that are sure to entertain everyone.” And for the Meagher family, everyone really was entertained.