The Village of Southampton will celebrate the return of Southamptonfest, now in its 13th year, over the weekend of October 3 to 5. This much-anticipated fall tradition attracts residents and visitors for a family-friendly weekend showcasing the art, culture, food, and spirit that make Southampton Village unique.
The festivities begin Friday, October 3, with the annual Rotary Club Kickoff Party at the Southampton Cultural Center. Guests can expect an evening of music, dancing, and camaraderie while supporting the Rotary Club’s long-standing mission of service to the community.
On Saturday, October 4, the Village comes alive with art, music, food, and entertainment for all ages. Visitors can enjoy the ever-popular Chowder Contest, sheep shearing demonstrations, a petting zoo, the Blessing of the Animals, arts and crafts, games, live music, and dance in Agawam Park, plus delicious seasonal fare from local restaurants.
As in 2024, a portion of festival proceeds will benefit the restoration of the World War I Memorial in Agawam Park, a historic community landmark first dedicated in 1923. Throughout the weekend, dozens of local organizations and institutions will host special events and programs, including the Peter Marino Art Foundation, Southampton Cultural Center, Southampton Arts Center, Rogers Memorial Library, Southampton History Museum, Southampton African American Museum, Southampton Chamber of Commerce, Southampton Playhouse, Heart of the Hamptons, and more.
This year, the Southampton Association is partnering with the Rotary Club to provide tickets to the Kickoff Party for local merchants, a token of appreciation for their support and hard work. The Chamber of Commerce Farmers Market this year will be held at the Chamber on Main Street, with live music from Classic Jam.
There will be creative workshops for kids with The Art Nanny’s Forever Sunflower Paper Sculptures, Ross School face painting, and Color Pop Southampton’s Nature Prints workshop.
Enjoy live music by rising singer-songwriter Bella Cuomo, who performs songs like “Gecko,” “Borrowing Business,” and “Happy Song” off her debut album “Road to Paradise,” and more at 3:30 PM. Cat-5 will perform rock and roll from 4:30 to 6 PM.
Southampton Cultural Center presents the exhibit “Tides of Creativity,” featuring local artists inspired by the ocean, including Fire Marshall Dean McNamara. “Homefront to Battlefront: Southampton During World War II” will be on display at Veterans Hall, curated by the Southampton History Museum. Southampton African American Museum presents bold new work by award-winning artist Shaunte Lewis, along with a booth at Agawam Park with self-guided tours of “Pyrrhus Concer: An Adventurous Life,” as well as arts and crafts. The Southampton Arts Center opens its doors for a preview of “Second Skin,” a group exhibition that explores the intersection of art and fashion. The Peter Marino Art Foundation offers guided tours at 11 AM and 2 PM; advance reservations are recommended.
On the South Lawn at Southampton Inn, enjoy pumpkin carving and painting, firepits and s’mores, apple cider and a full bar, from 3 to 7 PM on Saturday. Claude’s Restaurant will also have a prix fixe menu from 4:30 to 6:30 PM.
Southampton Playhouse screens “Under the Sea” in IMAX at 11 AM. It’s free for families and includes popcorn and water. Hampton Flea & Vintage Market will be in Agawam Park, featuring top vintage collectors and designers.
Visit southamptonvillage.org for a full schedule of events.