Nautical Mile Festival kicks off summer

The eagerly awaited 38th annual Nautical Mile Festival kicked off with great fanfare last weekend, led by Freeport Mayor Robert Kennedy, police officials and members of the Chamber of Commerce. Their collaborative efforts set the stage for a memorable festival experience.

On June 3, the streets of the Nautical Mile came alive with a range of festivities, transformed into a lively block party atmosphere. Residents and visitors from all over Long Island took part.

More than 100 vendors set up along the busy streets, offering a wide array of homemade crafts and other unique products. Participants immersed themselves in the festive spirit, and were eager to support local artisans.

The Nautical Mile boasts the greatest concentration of outdoor restaurants, bars and cafes in Nassau County. This picturesque stretch is a popular destination for fishing and boating enthusiasts as well as visitors who just want to enjoy the waterfront.

Live music serenaded revelers as they enjoyed amusement rides and explored the culinary delights of local eateries and ice-cream shops. Pets, too, were invited to take part in the fun.

“Another successful festival, with no problems,” Kennedy said. “There were over 125 vendors. Many residents showed up and had a good time. It wasn’t too hot, there was a nice breeze, and the event was enjoyed by all of our residents and visitors.”

American Legion Post 342 gave out flags and poppies in honor of those who have served and died in the country’s service, and members actively engaged with visitors, in the interest of raising awareness of their mission and strengthening their ranks. The post has over 100 members, but as the ranks of World War II veterans continue to thin, only 25 to 30 of them remain actively.

“We’re trying to recruit veterans who served at least one day on active duty to join our post, as we’re losing a lot of members (from) World War II — they’re passing away. The post’s sergeant at arms, Barry Griggs, said. “So we’re trying to fill in the ranks.”

Larry Dresner, representing the Long Island Arts Council, showcased the organization’s offerings at its booth, and told visitors about the exciting events on the horizon. He highlighted a highly anticipated series of free summer concerts scheduled to take place on the Mile every Thursday night in July and August. 

In addition, Dresner shared details about an upcoming seniors art exhibit called “Here and Now,” on display this month at the Freeport Memorial Library.

Nicole Limthong-Reksono represented the Girl Scout Council of Nassau County at the festival. Accompanied by scouts from Freeport’s Troop 2453, she emphasized that the Girl Scouts encompass more than just arts and crafts and cookie sales, and highlighted scouting’s commitment to “nurturing the whole girl” with activities focusing on financial literacy; science, technology, engineering and math; and life skills as well as outdoor adventures.

“The Girl Scouts provide girls with a unique opportunity to be part of an activity that focuses on their holistic development,” Limthong-Reksono said.

Among the vendors from all over Long Island who were offering unique handmade items was Chris Wagner, from Sayville. An artist and chainsaw carver, Wagner operates under the name “Backyard Art,” takes part in a variety of craft fairs and summer festivals, and takes orders on Facebook.

Wagner said he captures images of the wildlife found on Long Island, from owls to seahorses, using raw material from a firewood yard. He selects parts of trees that are suitable for his art, and each creation typically takes a couple of hours to complete.

“I find wood that’s suitable,” he said, “and then whatever I have in my head, I just make it come out through my soul.”

Another festival participant, Sicani Purizac, who’s originally from Peru but now lives in Greenpoint, showcased his family’s artwork.

They specialize in crafting decorative leather bracelets, infusing their work with cultural influences from their home country.

The Nautical Mile Festival was a resounding success, kicking off the celebration of the summer in Freeport. With its vibrant atmosphere, delectable dining options and diverse attractions, the event solidified the Mile’s status as a cherished gem of the community, and an unsurpassed gathering place for creativity and community.