Harvest and history plus a little friendly competition return to Hallockville Country Fair
For 45 years, the Hallockville Country Fair has brought a traditional country-fair atmosphere to Sound Avenue.
This year, the Oct. 3-4 event will also give local growers, cooks and beekeepers a chance to showcase their work and introduce a new way for fairgoers to get creative with straw.
The annual fair returns to Hallockville Museum Farm (6038 Sound Ave., Riverhead, 631-298-5292) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days, rain or shine. The 2026 edition features the return of Hallockville’s Preserves, Produce and Honey Contest, along with the first Scarecrow Making Contest.
Participants 17 and younger compete in the youth division, while those 18 and older compete in the adult division. Categories include potatoes; squash and pumpkins; and homemade preserves and honey. First-place winners receive a $10 cash prize, and ribbons are awarded to other top finishers.
“It’s just a small way we can try and honor the farmers out here,” Hallockville Museum Farm Assistant Director Lillian Cowburn says. “It’s a good way to get your farm produce out there, celebrate that season, celebrate the hard work of growing those potatoes, growing those squash, growing the berries to make your jam; it’s just a way to celebrate that hard work and encourage farmers of all types. And bragging rights are a big part of it.”
Judging will vary by category. Preserves will be evaluated on proper jar sealing, as well as on appearance, texture and taste. A panel of judges with diverse backgrounds and relevant expertise will also taste the honey. The potatoes and squash, including pumpkins, will be judged on appearance and condition, considering factors such as blemishes, size and whether an entry is appropriate for its variety.
Entries must be registered online by Sept. 25 and dropped off at the Hudson-Sydlowski House on Sept. 28 or 29 between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.
The new scarecrow contest offers a different entry point. It allows groups to create a scarecrow together during the fair. Stakes, straw and apparel will be available while supplies last, though participants are encouraged to bring their own clothing and props.
