The 69th Annual Mattituck Lions Club Strawberry Festival
The 2024 Mattituck Strawberry Festival, a beloved community event, promised an incredible experience featuring many delectable food trucks, unique vendors, local farms, and plenty of strawberry treats. It DELIVERED!!
It was scheduled just as the North Fork strawberry crops reached their peak flavor. The event was organized by the Mattituck Lions Club; the festival is a testament to the community's spirit, bringing everyone together for a weekend of fun and purpose. Whether you're a year-round resident, a seasonal visitor, or drawn to the festival from afar, you are guaranteed to have a wonderful time. I know we did!
The festival kicked off on Wednesday, June 12th, 2024, with Hulling Night, offering free admission and ride bracelets for $30 for a pay-one-price deal. The festivities continued with different admission prices and ride bracelet options for each following day, including fireworks displays on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings.
At the heart of the festival is the crowning of the Strawberry Queen, a unique tradition that adds a regal touch to the event. This, along with the opportunity to indulge in strawberry shortcakes, chocolate-dipped strawberries, and a variety of strawberry treats, as well as enjoy live music in the rest tent and peruse offerings from arts and crafts vendors, makes the festival a one-of-a-kind experience. The festival also features midway rides, global cuisine, and fireworks displays. Many festival attractions are free, thanks to the dedication of numerous volunteers, while proceeds from the festival support the Mattituck Lions Club's year-round community service efforts.
The Honors of the 69th Annual Mattituck Lions Club Strawberry Festival took place Saturday, and a new Strawberry Queen was crowned as Livia Perrin, 15, of Mattituck, received the ceremonial crown and strawberry scepter.
Ashleigh Doering, 17, of Southold, won the runner-up title; also competing were Julia Judge, 15, of Southold, Kate Oliver, 16, of Mattituck, and Chloe Manwaring, 17, of Southold. Congrats, Ladies!
The festival, with its rich history dating back to 1955, has grown in size and scope and in its impact on the community. It has introduced new traditions and attractions while contributing to its betterment. Today, the event benefits over 30 organizations and groups, thanks to visitors' generosity and volunteers' hard work. This long-standing tradition is a testament to the community's commitment to its shared values and the spirit of giving back, making it a truly community-driven event.
The festival offers something for everyone with over 25 thrilling rides, a wide array of arts and crafts, live entertainment, and a diverse food selection. From classic amusement rides and challenging games to unique handcrafted items, live music, and a mouthwatering selection of strawberry delicacies, the festival was, just like promised, a delightful experience for all attendees, ensuring there's never a dull moment.
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