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, Oct. 16
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Land & Sea Gala
Friday, 6:00 PM, Greenport American Legion
A celebrated kickoff event returning to Downtown Greenport Village at the American Legion! General Admission tickets $125 include tastings from local restaurants, drinks, & dancing!
Purchase TicketKick off the 36th Greenport Maritime Festival with the Land & Sea Gala at the Greenport American Legion – an evening celebrating the food, drink, people and spirit of Greenport. Rain can’t stop us!
Enjoy tasting tables from local restaurants, oysters, wine, beer & crafted cocktails, live music, dancing and an auction benefiting East End Seaport Museum!
Attire: Gala Chic – whatever that means to you, salty sailor, mermaid inspired, anything goes!
Footwear: Whatever you like! we’re in the legion now!Your ticket includes food tastings + beverages throughout the evening. This is a cocktail party style event!
Come hungry. Come thirsty. Come ready to celebrate Greenport. ⚓️🥂
Saturday, Oct. 17
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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. ⚓️ There's still time to roll with the best the Village has to offer. Click the link below or email: parade@greenportmaritimefestival.com. The Merfolk are gathering and can't wait to celebrate this October. Thank you to VEME studios for getting us parade ready! The weather will be a little chilly so dress warm under your pirate and mermaid outfits!
Register HereGather your crew and then bring it all to the streets for the 36th Annual Greenport Maritime Festival Parade.
Taking part. Register through the online form, or email parade@greenportmaritimefestival.com with any questions.
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Village Blacksmith
Saturday, 12:00 - 4:00 PM
Visit the Village Blacksmith open Saturday and Sunday during Maritime Festival!
LEARN MORE -
Anders Langendal Boatbuilders & Co.
Saturday, 12:00 - 5:00 PM, At Greenport Shipyard
Open shop, tours, and more!
LEARN MOREFree Open house from 12-5pm Saturday and Sunday
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Greenport Community Rowing
Saturday, 12:00 - 3:00 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. Thank you to Sailing Surprise Yacht Charters, Village Community Boathouse, & The East End Seaport Museum.
Learn MoreWHAT TO EXPECT
- 1-hour sessions
- Safety briefing
- Life jackets provided
- Basic introduction to rowing
- Hop in the boat for an exploratory cruise around Greenport Harbor
- Rowers must be 14 years old
- Youth can be passengers if accompanied by a guardian
WHERE
Glass Beach (in front of PORT), between Mitchell Park Marina and the Shelter Island North Ferry.
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Pirate Stories & Songs
Saturday, 12:45 - 1:15 PM, Mitchell Park Stage - Next to Aldos
Join a swashbuckling sailor who happens to look an awful lot like Ms. Nina for salty stories, songs and adventures from the high seas!
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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. Come hungry. Eat fast. Win bragging rights.
Register HereSponsored by 1943 / Brix & Rye, in partnership with Blue Duck Bakery.
Three Categories to enter: ages 6-9, ages 10-15, ages 16+
$5 per entry! Register with link below.
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Maritime Music & Movement
Saturday, 1:30 PM
Dance, move and make some waves with Karissa Despres, dance educator and owner of North Fork Academy of Dance!
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Hot Sauce Competition
Saturday, 2:00 - 4:00 PM
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. 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 ! -
Mermaid Story Hour presented by Floyd Memorial Library
Saturday, 2:15 - 2:45 PM
MERMAID STORY Hour: Our very own Library Director Ellen Nasto is trading her land legs for a mermaid tail for a very special Maritime story time! 📚 The library will be open from 1–3 PM and is also a stop + prize pickup location for the FAMILY SCAVENGER HUNT!
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America’s Fireboat (Fire Fighter)
Saturday, Ongoing
Free public tours of America's Fireboat (Fire Fighter) are available when the historic vessel is docked at Mitchell Park Marina in Greenport, New York.
The Vessel: Launched in 1938 and decommissioned in 2010 after serving as the longest-serving member of the FDNY Marine Unit fleet, the Fire Fighter is a National Historic Landmark and the world’s most award-decorated fireboat
What You Can See: Guided tours led by volunteers cover the bridge/pilot house, main deck, historic quarters, and the pristine engine room featuring twin Winton diesel engines and massive fire pumps.
Cost: Tours are free, though donations are welcomed to support the nonprofit (and matched up to $10,000 by the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation)
- Schedule & Hours:
- Typically run hourly on weekends (Saturdays and Sundays), with hours varying by season.
- Because the vessel periodically travels for maintenance or regional displays (such as temporary stays in Connecticut), schedules are updated weekly on the Fire Fighter Museum Facebook Group or via America’s Fireboat Official Website
- Schedule & Hours:
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Family Treasure Hunt
Saturday, Ongoing, Village-wide
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! | Pick up the scavenger hunts to The Sappan Greenport Movie Theater.
Sunday, Oct. 18
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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. 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. 60 seconds. Porgies on the table. Come watch the pros at work - and maybe a little history being made in Greenport.
REGISTER HERE -
Greenport Community Rowing
Sunday, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Glass Beach in front of PORT
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 MoreWHAT TO EXPECT
- 1-hour sessions
- Safety briefing
- Life jackets provided
- Basic introduction to rowing
- Hop in the boat for an exploratory cruise around Greenport Harbor
- Rowers must be 14 years old
- Youth can be passengers if accompanied by a guardian
WHERE
Glass Beach (in front of PORT), between Mitchell Park Marina and the Shelter Island North Ferry.
WHEN
10am, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm
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Village Blacksmith
Sunday, 12:00 - 4:00 PM
Visit the Village Blacksmith open during Greenport Maritime Festival!
LEARN MORE -
Anders Langendal Boatbuilders & Co.
Sunday, 12:00 - 5:00 PM, At the Greenport Shipyard
LEARN MORE -
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. To participate, email captain@greenportmaritimefestival.com. Additional race-day details, full construction rules, and information is available on the ticket link. Not racing? No problem, come and cheer on your favorite team! Show your support and come watch the races!
Register HereThe 4th Annual Cardboard Boat Race. Build it. Name it. Race it!
$25 per boat, across three divisions:
- Young Buccaneers — 12 and under
- Jolly Rogers Regatta — adults
- Pirates Outlaw Race
Space is limited, so early registration is strongly encouraged. Questions go to captain@greenportmaritimefestival.com.
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Annual Work Boat Race — Power. Purpose. Pride.
Sunday, 1:00 PM, Greenport Breakwater
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, 1:30 - 3:00 PM, East End Seaport Museum
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 -
Fishing Derby
Sunday, 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! 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! Sponsored by Burger Construction. Come cast a line and see what you can catch!
Sign Up HereDo you think you have what it takes to catch a big one?
Sponsored by Burger Construction.
Signing up. Email ahoy@GreenportMaritimeFestival.com.
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Greenport Community Rowing
Sunday, 2:00 - 4:00 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, 2:00 PM, Railroad Museum of Long Island
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
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THE DREAM GREEN
Sunday, 4:30 PM, Drawing
Dream Green, Win CASH! $50,000 1st Prize 65 Cash Prizes Total Sponsored by the ELIH Auxiliary Drawing at the ELIH Auxiliary Opportunity Shop* 321 Main St., Greenport, N.Y. Any changes to drawing location will be announced at elih.stonybrookmedicine.edu Sunday, October 18th, 2026 at 4:30 PM Need Not Be Present to Win Tickets: $100 Each
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FAMILY TREASURE HUNT
Sunday, Ongoing
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!
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America’s Fireboat (Fire Fighter)
Sunday, Ongoing
Free public tours of America's Fireboat (Fire Fighter) are available when the historic vessel is docked at Mitchell Park Marina in Greenport, New York.
The Vessel: Launched in 1938 and decommissioned in 2010 after serving as the longest-serving member of the FDNY Marine Unit fleet, the Fire Fighter is a National Historic Landmark and the world’s most award-decorated fireboat
What You Can See: Guided tours led by volunteers cover the bridge/pilot house, main deck, historic quarters, and the pristine engine room featuring twin Winton diesel engines and massive fire pumps.
Cost: Tours are free, though donations are welcomed to support the nonprofit (and matched up to $10,000 by the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation)
- Schedule & Hours:
- Typically run hourly on weekends (Saturdays and Sundays), with hours varying by season.
- Because the vessel periodically travels for maintenance or regional displays (such as temporary stays in Connecticut), schedules are updated weekly on the Fire Fighter Museum Facebook Group or via America’s Fireboat Official Website
- Schedule & Hours:
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?
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?
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