Mark your calendars for one of Williston’s most beloved traditions — the Annual Street Fair, taking place on Sunday, Sept. 15.
Every year, the streets of Williston Park and East Williston come alive as local businesses, vendors, and community groups gather to celebrate all that makes the town special. Hosted by the Chamber of Commerce, this event has become a hallmark of the community, and this year promises to be bigger and better than ever.
Barbara Bauer-Rizzo, co-president of the Chamber of Commerce, shared her excitement for this year’s event.
“The street fair has been a part of our town’s history for more than 50 years,” she said. “It’s something we all look forward to. The fair has grown so much over the years, and it’s great to see the entire neighborhood come out and participate.”
For long-time residents and newcomers alike, the fair offers an opportunity to enjoy a wide range of activities, explore local businesses, and connect with neighbors. Whether it’s shopping from local artisans, indulging in delicious food from neighborhood restaurants, or watching live performances, there’s something for everyone.
New Additions to the 2024 Street Fair
This year, the chamber has introduced some exciting new features to keep the event fresh and engaging. A video gaming truck will debut, offering a high-tech experience for gaming enthusiasts of all ages.
“We’ve never had anything like this before, and we’re really looking forward to seeing how it’s received,” Bauer-Rizzo said. Another new addition is a puppy adoption event, which is sure to attract animal lovers. The “puppy pound” will be a hub of excitement, with families given the chance to meet and possibly adopt a new furry friend.
“Everyone loves puppies, so we’re thrilled to add this feature,” said Bauer-Rizzo.
A golf simulator will also be available for sports fans, allowing attendees to test their swing in a fun, virtual environment.
The Heart of the Fair: Tried and True Traditions
While new attractions are always exciting, some fan favorites remain at the heart of the fair. With more than 200 vendor spots available, local businesses and artisans have the opportunity to showcase their products.
“Half of our vendors are repeat participants who’ve been with us for over five years,” Bauer-Rizzo explained. “It’s a testament to the quality of the fair and the strong relationships we’ve built with our community.”
Although the number of vendors has been slightly reduced from pre-COVID levels, the fair still draws between 8,000 and 10,000 visitors annually.
“Before the pandemic, we had up to 300 vendors, but we’ve scaled it back to allow for more space and comfort,” Bauer-Rizzo noted.
Another staple of the event is the live entertainment, with three different bands scheduled to perform throughout the day. In addition, local businesses will host dance and karate demonstrations, giving attendees a taste of the vibrant talent in the area.
“We have two dance shows and two karate demonstrations, all from local businesses. It’s always a highlight for the crowd,” Bauer-Rizzo said.
A Community-Driven Event
What sets Williston’s Street Fair apart from others in the area is its community-driven approach. Unlike some street fairs that outsource management to external companies, the Chamber of Commerce of the Willistons handles everything in-house.
“It makes the event feel more personal,” said Bauer-Rizzo. “It’s not just a business transaction — the whole community is invested in making it a success.”
The fair is also a collaboration between the fire departments of East Williston and Williston Park. Both departments contribute to the event, with the East Williston Fire Department setting up their famous dunk tank.
“It’s a great fundraiser for them, and it’s always a hit with the crowd,” Bauer-Rizzo added.
A Look Back at Tradition
The street fair, formerly known as “Williston Day,” has evolved significantly over the years.
“I’ve lived in Williston Park for 20 years, and my kids, who are now in college, grew up going to the fair,” said Bauer-Rizzo. “They used to love collecting all the freebies from the vendors. It’s those little memories that make the event so special for families.”
Even as the fair grows, it maintains a strong sense of tradition. Many local businesses are given priority for booth space, ensuring they’re placed in front of their storefronts.
“People know their favorite vendors and their spots,” Bauer-Rizzo said. “We try to accommodate that as much as possible, because it creates a sense of familiarity.”
Looking Ahead
As one of the most anticipated events in Nassau County, the Williston Street Fair continues to draw attention from vendors and visitors alike.
“We get calls from vendors all year long, asking when they can sign up,” Bauer-Rizzo shared. “It’s one of the best street fairs in the county, hands down.”
With a blend of exciting new attractions, beloved traditions, and a focus on community, the 2024 Annual Street Fair is shaping up to be an unforgettable event. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, this is one event you won’t want to miss.
For more information on how to get involved, contact the Williston Chamber of Commerce at [email protected] or 516-236-1333.
