Montauk’s 37th Annual Fall Festival and Chowder Contest returns October 6 to 7 on Columbus Day Weekend. It draws hundreds of visitors and locals each year to downtown and throughout Montauk since 1981. The Fall Festival is the Montauk Chamber of Commerce's major annual fundraiser.
“People love and line up early for chowder selections from our local restaurants…it seems the clam soup signifies the essence of Montauk for visitors and the community,” says Laraine Creegan, executive director of the chamber. Participants purchase two mugs sold at the chamber a day before or on the day of the event which starts at 11 a.m. until the chowder runs out. Food personalities judge and present awards for the best New England and Manhattan chowders. Winners are announced at 3 p.m. that day on the Chamber’s Facebook page and posted at www.montaukchamber.com.
Children’s activities include a free 30-horse carousel, inflatable rides, face painting, pumpkin decorating, street painting, crab races, and more. There is live music by Joe Delia and The Thieves on Saturday and the 3B’s on Sunday. On sale are raffles, Oktoberfest style food, chowder, Long Island wines and beer. The Farmers Market is open on both days. On Sunday, there is a Chinese Auction under the tent. To round off the weekend, Montauk Chamber's annual Cash Catch drawing for up to $20,000 is held at the close of the festival at 4:30 pm.
Visitors from the west are encouraged to leave their cars and take a free Hampton Jitney with stops in Southampton, Bridgehampton, East Hampton and Amagansett to Montauk. (Reservations required please phone Hampton Jitney at 631-283-4600.
