Harborfest 2022, Lively Locals in Their Element

Harborfest 2022 celebrates Sag Harbor’s storied traditions as a fishing and whaling village. On Long Wharf, the vibe was like a State Fair—air filled with music and the smells of roasting corn from the food trucks. There was plenty to do with a loaded line-up of events from Friday to Sunday, including live music, beer and wine, local vendors, children’s activities, cultural events and more.

These are the types of events that show the strength and spirit of the community on the East End. After a summer of traffic and tourists, it was great to be surrounded by smiling locals who get to enjoy their home and harbor. On a slow post-summer weekend, Sag Harbor’s annual Harborfest was as memorable as ever!

Local vendors lined Long Wharf and highlighted how diverse the community is in the Hamptons—from artists like Restoration Oak, whose impressive ceramics immediately caught my eye, to the League of Women Voters, who were always deep in conversations. There was a booth raising awareness about the critical need for affordable housing in the Hamptons and even a mobile library!

For the adults, the Corner Bar (on Bay Street) offered libations from Montauk Brewery and Wolffer Estates. American Beauty, a local charter boat, took sightseers around the Bay. Renowned author John Steinbeck, one of the original supporters of the Whaler’s Festival, was acknowledged by Canio’s Books with expert speakers and dramatic readings of his work.

Kids were never bored with bustling bounce houses (available for rent, if you have a birthday coming up…) along Long Wharf and a petting zoo, with pony rides, in the waterfront park. Kids could be heard coordinating their strategies in tug-of-war, potato sack races and corn-shucking competitions. Like any good family event, the Mr. Softee Truck was on site and was likely a bribe/reward for patient kids who attended the Steinbeck reading…

Big shout out to Boy Scouts Troop 455 for the delicious hot dogs – those Scouts are always prepared.

My favorite booth was Flotilla 18-02 from the United States Coast Guard Auxillary. Lots of toys and things to touch, not to mention beneficial water-safety information! Here is a photo of me awkwardly holding a rope!

You have to see the limited-edition, exclusive annual Harborfest merch. It was only available to community organizers, leaders, and volunteers. I am absolutely going to volunteer next year!!

The weekend was capped off by the whaleboat race championship on Windmill Beach and the annual Clam Chowder Contest. Congrats!!