Spotlight on Long Island: Falling for Fall
It’s official. The fall season has begun and there is no doubt that Long Island does not fall short of festivals inspired by the beauty of this season. You might even find it difficult to choose which fun-filled event to attend, as each town has planned amazing, themed celebrations. Whichever ones you select, your weekend will invigorate you as you enjoy the crisp, autumn air while walking through these outdoor fairs.
37Th Annual Bellmore Family Street Festival, Bellmore
The Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores presents its 37th Annual Bellmore Family Street Festival this weekend. 37 years of running a successful, well-attended festival speaks volumes for this Chamber of Commerce. Live music, a carnival area, vendors, crafts, foods, treats, and entertainment for all ages will certainly fill your day. Meet Gizmo D. Robot whose mom was a washing machine. Admission and parking are free. The LIRR Babylon Branch lets you off in the center of the fair if you prefer not to drive. www.bellmorechamber.com
Moriches Rotary 16th Annual OKTOBERFEST, Center Moriches
As a tribute to Bavarian culture, The Rotary Club of the Moriches is hosting its 16th Oktoberfest celebration at Camp Pa-Qua-Tuck at 2 Chet Swezey Road this weekend. This fair features beer gardens, carnivals, traditional German food, live music, and vendors. Admission is $20 for anyone 21 and over. Guests under the age of 21 are free. The proceeds from this event will be donated to the camp which dedicates itself to the benefit of special needs individuals. That is certainly more than enough reason to attend. www.camppaquatuck.com
43rd Annual Hallockville Country Fair, Riverhead
The Hallockville Fall Festival and Craft Show, now in its 43rd year, has become a North Fork tradition. Celebrate the rich folk art and agricultural traditions of the community in an old-fashioned, country fair atmosphere. The festivities include hayrides, a farmer’s market, tractor pulls, historic home tours, homemade baked goods, a petting zoo, a kiddie train ride, and sack races. Rounding out the fair will be live music, food, and a beverage truck. Admission is $15 for 13 and older, $10 for those 4 to 12 years old, and kids 4 and under are free. The Hallockville Museum Farm is a nonprofit dedicated to taking Long Islanders back to family farming roots and exploring their relevance today. All proceeds benefit this mission. www.hallockville.org
Wading River Shoreham Chamber Fall Festival at The Shoppes at East Wind, Wading River
This Sunday from 11 to 5, enjoy a lively atmosphere at the Wading River Shoreham Chamber Fall Festival. The energetic country music band, Southbound, will be performing. A diverse selection of craft and food vendors will be there. Kids will have a blast in the bounce house and enjoy participating in craft activities. Shopping at the on-site small businesses offers a truly unique shopping experience. Oh, and then, there’s the grand carousel that you don’t want to miss riding on. Admission to the festival is free. There is plenty of parking which is free also. www.eastwindlongisland.com
Andrea Peponakis
Andrea Peponakis is a retired foreign language teacher who then became a local newspaper journalist and local radio show host. Born and raised in Astoria, Queens and on Long Island, Andrea is now focusing on writing children’s books. The motivation to become an author was inspired by her three grandchildren. Her book, Grandma, Grandma, Tell Me More: My Family Loves Me, was featured at this year’s London Book Festival and at The LA Times Book Fair. Andrea currently resides on Long Island near her children and grandchildren. Her days are spent creating everlasting memories with her grandchildren and writing.
