Alive on 25 keeps downtown Riverhead buzzing with summer fun
Not dead yet.
Alive on 25 survives another year as round one of 2026 packed Main Street in Riverhead on Thursday night. The town had questioned the hefty cost and disruption, almost leading to the end of the famous festival.
“This is one of the best events that we throw year in and year out,” said Riverehead Town supervisor Jerry Halpin. “It brings focus to downtown, which we’ve been revitalizing for the past 35 to 40 years. People get to see firsthand what’s happening downtown right now. They also get to enjoy everything that makes our community — each other. That’s what it’s about: walking around on Thursday nights, seeing each other, shaking hands, greeting people.”
With vendors stationed on either side of the street, attendees had the opportunity to grab something to eat or drink, listen to all different kinds of music and participate in activities like getting a free portrait drawn of them.
Gary Long, a Cutchogue portrait and figurative landscape artist comes year after year to enjoy a night out on the town and creating personal artwork. Mr. Long was creating free 12-by-12 pastel acrylic portraits. Attendees didn’t have to sit for the portrait — all he needed was a photo from their phone or a picture he takes of them, and in about 15 minutes, they had a finished portrait.
“I love this. Riverhead is the place to be,” Mr. Long said. I’ve been here for a long time, and I really love it. It’s so great because it’s diverse. The town has done an incredible job with its revitalization, and it has really become a happening place. I’m happy to be here. I come back to these events because I know the town very well, and they keep inviting me.”
Under the agreement, settled on May 20, Riverhead Town was set to pay the Main Street Agency $10,000 in fees for its services, split into two phases. In phase 1, the Agency would receive $3,500 after it’s completed. Then after Phase 2, the remaining $6,500 would be paid.
Fast forward three months later, as festival goers of all ages swarmed Main Street on a warm, summer night in August.
“It’s my husband’s birthday, so we finally decided to come,” said local 62-year-old Gina Trozolin. “It’s fun to just walk around, people-watch, nibble on different foods, have a drink, and listen to some music. I really lie the ’90s rock.”
The next Alive on 25 night comes on Thursday, Sept. 10.
“Riverhead is an amazing place,” Mr. Halpin said. “We’re more than just a community — we’re a family, and it really shows during events like this.”
Photos by Nick Mongiovi
