Nautical Mile Fest to hit village on June 1

The eagerly anticipated 39th annual Nautical Mile Festival is set to begin with great fanfare on June 1, from 10AM to 6PM, led by Freeport Mayor Robert Kennedy, police officials, the Freeport Recreation Center and members of the Chamber of Commerce.

Their combined efforts promise to create an unforgettable festival experience.

On June 1, the Nautical Mile’s streets will transform into a vibrant block party, filled with a range of festivities. Residents and visitors from across Long Island will join in the celebration.

Around 75 vendors are expected to line the bustling streets, offering an array of homemade crafts and unique products. Attendees will immerse themselves in the festive spirit, eagerly supporting local artisans.

“We’ve been having (the festival) for as long as I can remember.” Elizabeth Comerford, director of the Recreation Center - who plays a key role organizing the events, including the vendor list and safety precautions taken such as EMT services and coordinating with local police – said. “(We have) a lot of craft vendors, jewelry, clothes, we have a lot of non-for-profits set up for informational purposes.”

“It’s a whole village wide coordination,” Comerford added, about the work that goes into making the event possible. “Police, fire, DPW… a whole lot of different departments get involved. Just to make sure that everyone’s safe and everyone’s happy and having fun.”

The Nautical Mile, renowned for having the highest concentration of outdoor restaurants, bars, and cafes in Nassau County, is a favorite spot for fishing and boating enthusiasts, as well as those looking to enjoy the scenic waterfront.

Live music will serenade festivalgoers as they savor the culinary delights from local eateries and ice-cream shops. Pets are also welcome to join in the fun.

“This is a tradition that’s (been) going on (for) 35 years,” Mayor Robert Kennedy said about the Nautical Mile Festival. “All the streets are going to be closed, there’s alternate parking set up. All the restaurants are preparing earlier that day, so there’ll be no traffic on the Nautical Mile.”

“We’ll be closing it up at six o’clock,” the mayor added. “We’ll have our amusement rides for the kids… there’s jet skis down there, there’s fishing boats going out… we have some musicians coming in at the esplanade.

“(It will be) an exciting day for the kids and for the parents to come down and have a nice stroll down the Nautical Mile. ”

Mayor Kennedy also stated that the village has elected to remove the meters that currently line the Mile, in the hopes that such a change will increase business and traffic on Woodcleft.

“It’s the beginning of the season on the mile, where people can bring their family and their friends and hang out, have a meal and relax with one another,” said Ken Dookram, president of the Freeport Chamber of Commerce, who is giving a speech at the central dais at the festival.

Dookram signaled his own intent to enjoy the Nautical Mile on the first, outside of his Chamber duties.

“It’s the kick off for the summer on the Nautical Mile, (to let people know) the mile is strong, the mile is doing well,” the Chamber president added. “And that there’s a lot of opportunities where they can go and get food.”

The Nautical Mile Festival promises to be a joyful coming-together for the village, heralding the start of summer in Freeport.

With its lively atmosphere, delicious dining options, and diverse attractions, the event will reaffirm the Mile’s status as a beloved community gem and a premier gathering spot for friends and family.