I eagerly anticipate the annual Mattituck Lions Club Strawberry Festival each year. This beloved event, held in the heart of Mattituck, embodies the vibrant community spirit that makes the North Fork so special. My family and I mark our calendars months in advance, knowing that the festival promises a delightful blend of tradition, fun, and, of course, delicious strawberries.
The Mattituck Lions Club has proudly announced its 69th Annual Strawberry Festival, presented by Stony Brook Medicine. Scheduled for June 12 to 16, this year’s festival promises to be as memorable as ever, perfectly timed for Father’s Day weekend. The festivities will unfold over five days, offering a rich array of activities and entertainment that cater to all ages.
One of the most heartwarming aspects of the festival is the palpable sense of community. From local vendors showcasing their crafts to families enjoying the fairgrounds, the festival is a testament to the strong bonds that tie the North Fork together. This year, the festival kicks off on Wednesday with the beloved Hulling Night, sponsored by M&T Bank, and the third annual “North Fork’s Got Talent Show.” The carnival, midway, and international food court add to the vibrant atmosphere.
Thursday evening is the first of three nights of fireworks, a breathtaking display sponsored by Mattituck Environmental Services and Maggio Environmental. Additionally, the festival will feature a unique event, “Memories for Morgan,” which allows local children facing social disorders, life-threatening illnesses, or undue hardships to enjoy the carnival in a relaxed, crowd-free environment. This compassionate initiative is made possible through the efforts of the Stony Brook University Occupational Therapy program and local occupational therapy practitioners, with sponsorship from North Fork Woodworks.
The North Fork’s Got Talent Winner Jam Session will kick off the festivities on Wednesday night, followed by David Clark’s All About Joel Tribute Band on Thursday. As the weekend approaches, the Fever Band will take the stage on Friday night, with Aqua Cherry and That 70’s Band performing on Saturday. Saturday also includes the crowning of the 2024-2025 Strawberry Queen at 4 PM and the highly anticipated World Strawberry Shortcake Eating Contest at 5 PM, where reigning champion Geoff Esper aims to break his record.
The festival culminates on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 16, with live music from the Points East duo and Reel East End Brass (REEB). The day will conclude with the announcement of the Big Bucks Raffle winner at 4:30 PM, bringing the festival to a joyous close.
Festival Chairman and 1st Vice President of the Mattituck Lions Club, Adam West, encapsulates the spirit of the event perfectly: “Our festival offers something for everyone and is the perfect opportunity to kick off your summer surrounded by family and friends in a fun-filled atmosphere here on the beautiful North Fork.”
For more details on times, prices, directions, parking information, and the beneficiaries of this charitable event, visit mattituckstrawberryfestival.com. Join us in celebrating this cherished tradition and creating unforgettable memories with your loved ones at the 69th Annual Mattituck Strawberry Festival.
