Jazz, Soul Music Headline Patchogue's Last 'Alive After Five'

PATCHOGUE, NY — As if kids needed another reason to think about the end of summer, Patchogue is poised to host its fourth and final installment of its popular "Alive After Five" summer festivals. As usual the event will run from 5 p.m. Thursday to 9 p.m.

With clear skies on the horizon, organizers expect the event to draw about 20,000 people, the same as the third festival, which was the most popular installment of the year.

"I don't see why we wouldn't equal that," David Kennedy, executive director of the Greater Patchogue Chamber of Commerce, told Patch on Wednesday.

Thursday's event will celebrate the community's cultural diversity, highlighting various organizations dedicated to minority groups and featuring bands led by Hispanics, African-Americans and more. Live music will include jazz, soul and even some Irish music.

There will be a particular emphasis on celebrating Hispanic culture, said Kennedy. About a third of the village is Hispanic or Latino, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, and about 5 percent are black or African-American.

As usual, attendees can expect seven stages of music and about 100 food and craft vendors.

Carolina Soul Band will perform on the main stage in the four corners area of South Ocean Avenue and West Main Street while SMG and Soul Purpose will play at the Blue Point stage. Bands typically begin performing around 5:30 p.m.

The Patchogue-Medford public Library will host a family section where a community talent show will be held. Young children will get a chance to show off their various talents, including Kennedy's own son.

"He's doing a dance routine," said Kennedy.

The show runs from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the New Village Green.

Attendees shouldn't leave their appetites at home — food options will feature eevrything from apple puffs to zeppoles, including hot dogs, burgers, empanadas, ice cream and more. Thirty food trucks will be at the event and every restaurant will participate.

Activities include face painting, arts and crafts and even carnival games where people throw balls through hoops or show off their strength by testing the high striker.