HAUPPAUGE, NY, Aug. 9, 2016)--Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone invites vendors to participate in the Taste of Long Island Festival at the CHS second annual Suffolk County Marathon, Half Marathon and 5k on Oct. 30 in Patchogue.
“Suffolk County has so much to offer visitors,” Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone said. “This is a great opportunity for wineries, food producers and craft breweries to show off the many options they have made available for the festival-goers to enjoy.”
The FreedomFest Taste of Long Island Festival will begin at 9 a.m., shortly before the first half marathoners finish, and will take place in the heart of downtown Patchogue.
The event will feature live musical entertainment and will highlight our local craft breweries, award winning wines, and local food and produce. Free tastings will be given to all race participants.
The Taste of Long Island Festival will showcase the rich and diverse collection of food and beverage options available across Suffolk County. The Taste of Long Island Festival will provide an opportunity for businesses to reach new customers, build overall brand awareness, and drive repeat visitations to Suffolk County.
There will be a $100 vendor fee for a 10’x10’ lease with additional adjacent vendor spaces available for lease. All net proceeds will support veterans’ services.
If you are interested in participating in the festival, contact August Ruckdeschel at (631) 853-4714 or at August.Ruckdeschel@suffolkcountyny.gov. The vendor packet is available for download at http://www.suffolkmarathon.com/Portals/56/docs/TOLI-VendorSolicitationPackage2016.pdf
Last year’s race raised $160,000, which was distributed to 19 organizations that provide services for Suffolk County veterans. About 3,500 runners from 25 states and five countries, participated in last year’s race.
In addition to raising funds for veterans, numerous teams are running the races to raise money for charitable causes. Teams of 30 or more receive a 10 percent discount on registration.
“Teams play an important role in our marathon, able to encourage family, friends or colleagues to do their best,” the County Executive said. “This event, including the Freedom Fest after the race, makes for a great day for people to enjoy together.”
The event also provides for a virtual run. By registering for the virtual race option, runners can complete the 5k, half or full marathon anywhere and at any time. All virtual run registrants will receive the same race registration packet, including a finisher’s medal and commemorative T-shirt, as those participating in the actual event, but will not be eligible in the competitive awards categories.