Merrick Fall Festival draws thousands

The Merrick Chamber of Commerce’s Fall Festival went off without a hitch this past weekend, attracting thousands to downtown Merrick.

Local businesses set up booths on 10 square blocks in and around Merrick Avenue, and the carnival came to the Long Island Rail Road’s parking lot on Sunrise Highway. There were also pony rides and military displays, along with entertainment at the Town of Hempstead’s Showmobile (see video) and loads of finger food.

The festival was well received by children and adults alike, as families from all across Long Island joined in the festivities. "Gee whiz, I'm having a great time at the fair!" said a very enthusiastic 13-year-old Cassidy Wilson of Bellmore, who attended the fair with her family.

“I love the Merrick fair because it's a great opportunity to get out with your family, enjoy some good food, and look at the local crafts,” said Amanda Sannella, 23, of Bellmore.

It’s probably the only weekend of the year when you can witness Barbie strolling down the street with a cadre of cartoon characters, a woman wrapped in an 11-foot boa constrictor and an Elvis impersonator in a five-minute span and not even think twice about it.

Most important, the fair was a time for local residents to learn about the many businesses in town.

The Merrick Herald’s booth was set amid the long line of tents that stretched up Merrick Ave., and all of us at the Herald are grateful to the hundreds of local residents who stopped by our tent to say “hi” and check out our newspaper.

Comments about this story? DWeingrad@liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 236, or SBrinton@liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 203.