New Leadership
Stewardship of the festival transitions from the East End Seaport Museum to the Greenport Business Owners Alliance, a collective of local business leaders committed to strengthening and sustaining this event for years to come.
For over 35 years, the Greenport Maritime Festival has celebrated the rich maritime heritage, working waterfront, and enduring spirit of Greenport Village. What began as a tribute to our fishing and shipbuilding roots has grown into one of the East End’s most beloved annual traditions—bringing together residents, visitors, and local businesses in a shared celebration of life by the sea.
In 2026, the festival returns with renewed energy and a thoughtful vision for the future—honoring its history while embracing the evolving identity of our waterfront community.
About the Festival
The Greenport Maritime Festival is a weekend-long, village-wide celebration of maritime culture, local craftsmanship, food, music, and community connection. Set against the working waterfront of Greenport, the festival activates Mitchell Park, the marina, and surrounding streets with programming for all ages.
From legacy events like the Snapper Derby and Cardboard Boat Races to new experiences designed to engage families, artists, and makers, the festival reflects the creativity, resilience, and collaboration that define Greenport today.
What's New in 2026
Events
The 2026 festival features a mix of beloved traditions and new signature experiences:
Friday, October 16th
-
Land & Sea Gala
Friday, October 16th — 6:00 PM
A celebrated kickoff event returning to Downtown Greenport Village in Mitchell Park! General Admission tickets $125 include tastings from local restaurants, drinks, & dancing!
PURCHASE TICKET
Saturday, October 17th
-
Maritime Parade
Saturday — 11:00 AM
Gather your crew & then bring it all to the streets for the 36th Annual Greenport Maritime Festival Parade sponsored by Peconic Marine. ⚓️ For PARADE sign up & information click on PARADE on our website below or email: parade@greenportmaritimefestival.com. The Merfolk are gathering and can't wait to celebrate this October. Get Parade Ready with VEME for kids & adults, Maritime Parade workshops: www.vemestudios.com.
REGISTER HERE -
Greenport Community Rowing
Saturday — 12PM - 3PM
Ever wondered what it's like to row a traditional gig? Here is your chance. At the 2026 Maritime Festival, we’re launching a pilot community rowing program featuring two styles of wooden rowing gigs — each crewed by four rowers and led by an experienced coxswain (aka "skipper") who steers and calls the stroke.These are cool boats! Get ouside! Meet your neighbors! Explore the waterfront! No experience needed. All are welcome.
LEARN MORE -
Pie Eating Contest
Saturday — 1:00 PM
How fast can you eat a delicious pie from Blue Duck Bakery? Sign up and find out! Race your fellow pie lovers to the finish with individual mini pies baked by Blue Duck Bakery. Brought to you by 1943 Pizza Bar + Brix & Rye - two additional great spots to grab a pie right here in Greenport Village.<br /> Come hungry. Eat fast. Win bragging rights.
REGISTER HERE -
Fishing Derby
Saturday — 2:00 PM
Think you can catch a big one? 🎣⚓️ Fish right off the Peconic Star, docked directly behind the East End Seaport Museum, and get a taste of competitive fishing right in Greenport Harbor!<br /> Fishing guides will be alongside to help, and all ages are welcome. Catch a big one and you could win the chance to head out on the Peconic Star for a real fishing trip!<br /> Sponsored by Burger Construction.<br /> Come cast a line and see what you can catch!
SIGN UP HERE -
Hot Sauce Blind Tasting 🌶️
Saturday 2pm - 4pm ~ NEW DATE & TIME
Think you know hot sauce? Put your palate to the test! Taste 5 mystery sauces, then guess the flavors, rank the heat, and pick your favorites for 3 ways to win. The sauces - and our Long Island Community Sauce Partner - stay secret until the tasting is over.<br /> Great prizes, spicy bragging rights, and all the hot sauce glory. Taste. Guess. Rank. Win. Saturday, October 17 | 2–4 PM | $5 to enter
Register Here or day of IN PERSON ! -
Bug Light Classic Regatta ~ NEW DATE ~ 10.10.26
Saturday ~ NEW DATE ~ 10.10.26
The East End Seaport Museum, in collaboration with Shelter Island Yacht Club and the Stirling Harbor Foundation, sponsored by Wooden Boat Works and other local businesses is proud to introduce the Classic Boat Regatta which will take place on Saturday October 10th, 2026! The Race will take place in Greenport Harbor and Gardiner’s Bay.
REGISTER HERE -
Family Treasure Hunt
Saturday & Sunday — Ongoing throughout festival hours
Family Treasure Hunt ⚓️ Discover the lost treasures of Greenport - an adventure across Greenport Village! Curated in collaboration with the North Fork Art Collective, North Fork Performing Arts Center, our historical landmarks, local organizations & not-for-profits, each stop unlocks another piece of Greenport. From the Little Red Schoolhouse, to the old jail, across the way to Floyd Memorial Library and beyond-follow the clues and see where your key takes you!Explore, discover & experience Greenport in a whole new way. Saturday & Sunday | Throughout Festival Hours All ages encouraged!
Sunday, October 18th
-
Greenport Community Rowing
Sunday - 10 AM - 11 AM
Ever wondered what it's like to row a traditional gig? Here is your chance. At the 2026 Maritime Festival, we’re launching a pilot community rowing program featuring two styles of wooden rowing gigs — each crewed by four rowers and led by an experienced coxswain (aka "skipper") who steers and calls the stroke.These are cool boats! Get ouside! Meet your neighbors! Explore the waterfront! No experience needed. All are welcome.
LEARN MORE -
Fish Filleting Contest
Sunday — 10:00 AM
A true working-waterfront skill takes center stage! Presented by BluJMarine in partnership with Little Creek Oysters. Watch local fish cutters and maritime professionals go knife-to-knife to see -who can properly fillet the most porgies in just 60 seconds.<br /> And there may be even more on the line - one competitor believes he can challenge a Guinness World Records mark, and we're working with Guinness toward a potential official attempt.<br /> 60 seconds. Porgies on the table. Come watch the pros at work - and maybe a little history being made in Greenport. <br /> ⚓️
REGISTER HERE -
Cardboard Boat Regatta
Sunday — 12:30 PM
⚓ 4TH ANNUAL CARDBOARD BOAT RACE ⚓ Part of the 2026 Greenport Maritime Festival! $25 per boat** Build it. Name it. Race it! Choose from three race events: Young Buccaneers (12 & under), Jolly Rogers Regatta (Adults), or the Pirates Outlaw Race (Anything Goes!). Boats must be built according to the updated 2026 construction rules using approved materials, with a maximum length of 12'. All racers must wear life jackets, and single-sided paddles are required. Space is limited — early registration is strongly encouraged! To participate, email captain@greenportmaritimefestival.com. Additional race-day details, full construction rules, and information on parade participation will be available on the Greenport Maritime Festival website.
REGISTER HERE -
Annual Work Boat Race - Power. Purpose. Pride.
Sunday — 1:00 PM
The boats that work for the boats take center stage! Led by Adam Douglas & Tim Heaney, the Work Boat Race celebrates the hardworking vessels - and crews—that keep Greenport’s waterfront moving. They’re the yard dogs, the watchtowers, the guiding lights. They haul, tow, tend, guide & get the job done. But during Maritime Festival weekend, they’ve got just one job: Race for glory, guts & “gold.” The race begins at the Greenport Breakwater, with inboard & outboard divisions and three prizes up for grabs. Once the racing is done, stick around for a parade of racers - a chance to see the boats & crews that keep our working waterfront working. Come cheer them on as captains & crews put their vessels - and maybe a little friendly harbor rivalry - to the test. All hands on deck. Let’s race! ⚓️
SIGN UP HERE -
David Berson - Shuck n’ Jive - Sea shanties
Sunday - 1:30pm - 3pm
Sea shanties with one of Greenport’s own! David Berson is one of Greenport’s most celebrated sailors, neighbors, and musicians. Catch Shuck n’ Jive at the East End Seaport Museum - and don’t miss Dave Friday evening as he welcomes guests into the Land & Sea Gala with songs of the sea and plenty of Greenport spirit.
Learn More -
Greenport Community Rowing
Sunday - 2 PM - 4 PM
Ever wondered what it's like to row a traditional gig? Here is your chance. At the 2026 Maritime Festival, we’re launching a pilot community rowing program featuring two styles of wooden rowing gigs - each crewed by four rowers and led by an experienced coxswain (aka "skipper") who steers and calls the stroke.These are cool boats! Get ouside! Meet your neighbors! Explore the waterfront! No experience needed. All are welcome.
LEARN MORE -
Concert at the Caboose 🚂🎶 THE MUDFLATS
Sunday — 3:00 PM
The Railroad Museum of Long Island presents The Mudflats, bringing American Folk & Roots Music to the caboose during Maritime Festival weekend! Grab a chair or blanket, settle in & enjoy live music at one of Greenport’s most unique historic locations. FREE & Open to All 📍 Railroad Museum of Long Island 440 4th Street, Greenport, NY Bring a chair or blanket & stay awhile! Supported by SUFFOLK COUNTY DEPT. OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND PLANNING
-
Family Treasure Hunt
Saturday & Sunday — Ongoing throughout festival hours
Family Treasure Hunt 🔑⚓️ What worlds will your key open up? This weekend-long interactive treasure hunt starts with a key - and takes you on an adventure across Greenport Village! Curated in collaboration with the North Fork Performing Arts Center, our historical landmarks, local organizations & not-for-profits, each stop unlocks another piece of Greenport. From the Little Red Schoolhouse, to the old jail, across the way to Floyd Memorial Library and beyond-follow the clues and see where your key takes you! Explore, discover & experience Greenport in a whole new way. Saturday & Sunday | Throughout Festival Hours All ages encouraged!
For participation, event inquiries, or volunteer opportunities:
Artisan Vendors
We are curating a thoughtful and dynamic marketplace featuring high-quality makers, artists, and small businesses. We are seeking vendors who reflect:
- Handmade and original goods
- Maritime or coastal influence
- Strong visual presentation and craftsmanship
- A balance of traditional and contemporary offerings
Apply to participate or learn more:
Food Vendors
Food is at the heart of the Maritime Festival experience. We are looking for:
- Local food businesses and purveyors
- Fresh, seasonal, and high-quality offerings
- Menus that reflect the East End’s agricultural and maritime roots
- Efficient service models suited for high-volume festival flow
Apply to participate or learn more:
Non-Profit Vendors
- Community Outreach Organizations – Local non-profits that provide services and support to the North Fork community.
- Community & Civic Groups – Organizations dedicated to preserving and improving our local communities.
- Maritime Heritage Organizations – Groups that celebrate and preserve Greenport’s rich maritime history.
- Boating & Sailing Clubs – Local organizations that promote boating, sailing, and life on the water.
- Marine Conservation Groups – Non-profits working to protect our waterways and coastal environment.
- Maritime Safety Organizations – Meet representatives from the Coast Guard, Coast Guard Auxiliary, and other marine safety agencies.
- Educational Organizations – Groups offering educational programs and hands-on learning for all ages.
- Historical Societies & Museums – Organizations preserving the history and traditions of the North Fork.
Sponsors
Sponsorship opportunities are available at multiple levels, offering meaningful visibility and
engagement throughout the festival weekend and beyond. Benefits may include:
- On-site presence and activation
- Digital and print recognition
- Alignment with legacy events and programming
- Access to exclusive festival experiences
- Title, Premier and Major sponsorships opportunities alongside Community Supporters
Inquire about sponsorship opportunities:
Parade
Saturday, September 26 — 11:00 AM Line-Up
A cornerstone of the festival, the Maritime Parade brings together local organizations,
businesses, and community groups in a vibrant procession through the village. We welcome:
- Floats and decorated vehicles
- Marching groups and performers
- Maritime-themed creativity in all forms
Participate or volunteer:
Music
Live music will be featured throughout the weekend across multiple locations within the festival
footprint. Programming will include:
- Local bands and regional acts
- Maritime and coastal-inspired performances
- Family-friendly daytime sets and evening programming
Interested in performing or supporting music programming?
We are curating a thoughtful and dynamic marketplace featuring high-quality makers, artists, and small businesses. We are seeking vendors who reflect:
- Handmade and original goods
- Maritime or coastal influence
- Strong visual presentation and craftsmanship
- A balance of traditional and contemporary offerings
Apply to participate or learn more:
Food is at the heart of the Maritime Festival experience. We are looking for:
- Local food businesses and purveyors
- Fresh, seasonal, and high-quality offerings
- Menus that reflect the East End’s agricultural and maritime roots
- Efficient service models suited for high-volume festival flow
Apply to participate or learn more:
- Community Outreach Organizations – Local non-profits that provide services and support to the North Fork community.
- Community & Civic Groups – Organizations dedicated to preserving and improving our local communities.
- Maritime Heritage Organizations – Groups that celebrate and preserve Greenport’s rich maritime history.
- Boating & Sailing Clubs – Local organizations that promote boating, sailing, and life on the water.
- Marine Conservation Groups – Non-profits working to protect our waterways and coastal environment.
- Maritime Safety Organizations – Meet representatives from the Coast Guard, Coast Guard Auxiliary, and other marine safety agencies.
- Educational Organizations – Groups offering educational programs and hands-on learning for all ages.
- Historical Societies & Museums – Organizations preserving the history and traditions of the North Fork.
Sponsorship opportunities are available at multiple levels, offering meaningful visibility and
engagement throughout the festival weekend and beyond. Benefits may include:
- On-site presence and activation
- Digital and print recognition
- Alignment with legacy events and programming
- Access to exclusive festival experiences
- Title, Premier and Major sponsorships opportunities alongside Community Supporters
Inquire about sponsorship opportunities:
Saturday, September 26 — 11:00 AM Line-Up
A cornerstone of the festival, the Maritime Parade brings together local organizations,
businesses, and community groups in a vibrant procession through the village. We welcome:
- Floats and decorated vehicles
- Marching groups and performers
- Maritime-themed creativity in all forms
Participate or volunteer:
Live music will be featured throughout the weekend across multiple locations within the festival
footprint. Programming will include:
- Local bands and regional acts
- Maritime and coastal-inspired performances
- Family-friendly daytime sets and evening programming
Interested in performing or supporting music programming?
Get Involved
The Greenport Maritime Festival is built by the community, for the community. Whether you’re a vendor, sponsor, performer, volunteer, or neighbor, we invite you to be part of this next chapter.
For general inquiries:
info@greenportmaritimefestival.com