Riverhead Halloween Festival, Coffin Races, Set To Spook Saturday

RIVERHEAD, NY — A day full of spooktacular events is headed to downtown Riverhead Saturday after Mother Nature delayed the festivities for a week the first time around.

Halloween Fest, hosted by the Riverhead Business Improvement District, is now scheduled for Saturday, October 28.

The event will feature day and night activities, restaurant and brewery specials, and entertainment for ghouls and goblins of all ages.

Kicking off the festivities is the Main Street lamppost decorating contest, where all community members are invited to register and install Halloween or harvest decor, turning downtown into a "world of frights and sights," organizers said.

The public will be able to vote from October 19 to October 31, and the winning post will receive a $250 cash prize from the Riverhead BID.

In honor of Veteran's Day, Hometown Hero banners will remain on alternating lamp posts; the BID will install corn stalks on those poles and decorate with pink and orange bows to honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Corn stalks have been donated by Lewin Farms in Calverton.
Halloween Fest Schedule

Here's a rundown on the haunting Halloween festivities on Saturday, Oct. 28.

2 p.m.: Halloween Fest begins with crowds lining Griffing Avenue to cheer on Ghoulies (ages 5 to 12 years) and Zombies (12+) as their teams of five race custom-made “coffins” to win cash prizes. Racers compete in multiple heats, and the winning team of each age group will receive a $500 cash prize. There is a prize-sponsorship opportunity for anyone interested.

3 p.m. to 5 p.m.: Trick-or-treat along Main Street from Griffing Hardware (west) to Jerry And The Mermaid (east). Businesses and community members hand out candy — funded by a grant partnership with the Riverhead BID, East End Tourism Alliance and I Love NY. New for 2023: Due to increased attendance over the years, Main Street will now be closed during trick or treat.

5 p.m. to 6 p.m.: Festival-goers are encouraged to dine at local restaurants while parade participants check-in and line up on Griffing Avenue.

6 p.m.: Goblin Parade on Main Street. Performances by local groups — the Peconic Ballet Theater performs ‘Thriller’— floats and entertainment pass by, ending on the Peconic Riverfront at Town Square.

Beginning at 3 p.m., Riverhead’s Town Square will feature a DJ, sponsored by Privet Consignment Warehouse, who will race a coffin for their third consecutive year; live performances by East End Arts rock bands; photo opportunities and more.

"We work hard to offer extraordinary events throughout the year that deliver fun and safe experiences to locals and visitors alike," Kristy Verity, executive director of the Downtown Riverhead Business Improvement District, said. "We’ve seen Halloween Fest grow tremendously and we’re extremely grateful for the support of the Riverhead Police Department, town board, festival participants and volunteers who partner with us, connect with the community and collectively foster a positive perception of downtown Riverhead."

The Riverhead BID is seeking volunteers to assist with operations; sponsors to offset overhead costs; lamp post decorators, coffin racers and parade participants.

Those who would like to participate but need guidance or financial assistance are encouraged to contact the BID for assistance by emailing hello@downtownriverhead.org or by phone 631-440-1350.

“My favorite part of Halloween Fest is seeing Riverhead’s culture, diversity and creativity synergize for a day of unity," Verity said. "I would love to see more community groups share their knowledge and resources, get involved, and develop options for all abilities to engage with downtown events. Embracing every perspective and approach would unlock unprecedented levels of inspiration and innovation as Riverhead continues to rise.”

Full event details and registration information are listed on the Halloween Fest & Parade website here.