75th Annual Strawberry Festival

Chappaqua’s 75th Annual Strawberry Festival is June 9

The Church of St. Mary the Virgin, located at 191 S. Greeley Avenue in downtown Chappaqua, will hold its 75th annual Strawberry Festival on Saturday, June 9, from 11 to 4 o’clock—rain or shine. Dating back to 1938, this perennially popular festival has the distinction of being the longest continually-running event of its kind in Westchester, attracting visitors not just from New Castle but also many area towns. “At St. Mary’s,” says Rector Joel Mason, “we see the Strawberry Festival as our opportunity to give people in the community a chance to come out with their families to enjoy strawberry shortcake and other food, entertainment and games, and just to relax and have fun.”

St. Mary’s has a strong outreach tradition, and income from the Festival helps to fund the church’s support of organizations benefitting those in need both locally (Interfaith Emergency Food Pantry, Mt. Kisco Child Care Center, Neighbors Link) and throughout Westchester (Hope’s Door, A-Home, Open Door Family Medical Centers, Bridge Fund of Westchester).

Food is always a big attraction at the Festival, starting with St. Mary’s famous strawberry shortcake—luscious strawberries piled atop shortcake generously provided by Susan Lawrence, Ben & Jerry’s ice cream (also donated), and freshly-whipped cream. If you’re still hungry you’ll find summertime favorites: grilled hotdogs and hamburgers, cotton candy, popcorn, and cold drinks. There are also freshly-baked items to bring home. And inside the Parish Hall, the Strawberry Patch Café offers a cool place to sit down and enjoy tuna or tabbouleh wraps, plus an assortment of strawberry-themed delights. Tempted by chocolate-covered strawberries? Or how about a strawberry smoothie?  

Popular games and activities for kids include the bouncy castle, bouncy obstacle course, face painting, pocket lady, lollipop tree, pitch burst with water balloons, football toss, and alien can smash.

Over 30 vendors will set up their tents on the great lawn in front of the church, offering unique items. All products are hand-crafted, including jewelry, children’s and babies’ clothing, crocheted and knitted goods, woodcrafts, toys, and other craft items. Inside the Parish Hall you’ll find Attic Treasures: brass and silver, vintage jewelry, ceramics, interesting curios—and bargains!

Live music is an important part of the Strawberry Festival. Performing groups this year include the bluegrass Stump Jumpers with keyboard, guitar, fiddle, and vocals; the Blues Dogs on sax, harmonica, drums, and vocals; Faith, Hope, and Charity playing show tunes and classical music; and the Scarborough Singers performing popular songs.

For more information, call Mary Dierdorff at 914 471-1762.