Perched on the banks of the Susquehanna River, Owego is a quiet destination that's perfect for planning a Finger Lakes Region getaway. The downtown area has something for everyone including boutiques, gift shops, restaurants, art galleries, and large-scale community festivals. All visitors should make a point to visit the Owego Central Historic District which is one of the largest historic districts in the state, containing 277 buildings such as Owego Academy and Owego Village Firehouse.
The Owego Strawberry Festival is one of the biggest early summer festivals in the region, and it will take place June 16-17, across Downtown Owego. The event is one of the most-attended spring events in the region, with more than 20,000 attendees annually. The event kicks off with a massive block party which includes the Strawberry Shake 5K, a kid’s run, the Miss Strawberry Pageant, a wine and beer tasting tent, and even a Royal Automotive Auto Display. The Festival Parade headlines the second day, and will feature horses, floats, marching bands, dancers, vintage tractors, and more. After the parade attendees will find activities for kids, a vendor marketplace, live music, and more. We got the chance to interview Kevin Millar, a representative of the event to learn about this family friendly celebration.
RAL: Tell me a bit about the event.
KM: This is the 37th consecutive year for the festival. It draws 25,000 to 40,000 depending on the weather. The event attracts families and is very child-friendly. The most unique aspect of the festival is our downtown area, which is on the National Register Historic Places. There is a beautiful River Walk along the north bank of the Susquehanna River which patrons seem to love.
RAL: Take me through a day at the event.
KM: The festival starts at 8:00 am with strawberry shortcake for breakfast. The parade begins at 10:00 am, and that’s also the time when art and craft vendors along the downtown streets open for business. Live music starts at multiple downtown venues as well.
RAL: What dining options will attendees encounter?
KM: There are five restaurants and three diners in the village and many street vendors selling food.
RAL: What is the environment like?
KM: The atmosphere is casual with people strolling through the street to view vendor wares.
RAL: What will attendees find for local lodging?
KM: There are three hotels on the east end of the village. You’ll also find a historic B&B, Pumpelly Estate, located along the river featuring an elegant home, a restored horse barn that caters events, and a long lawn that rolls down to the Susquehanna River. The historic Parkview Hotel is being renovated to allow more guests, and features a renowned restaurant and supposedly haunted pub.
RAL: What does the event mean to the community?
KM: The Owego Strawberry Festival draws people from a wide area, many of whom return after the event to shop and dine. The festival supports many local non-profits who sell food, especially strawberry dishes and drinks, and earn money to support their organization. Lodging is usually busy, but not maxed out.
RAL: Why should people come?
KM: This event highlights a quaint, walkable village and many family members that have moved away return to it like a homecoming. It is usually on Father's Day Weekend. The quaint, friendly charm of the village is probably what people find most memorable. While the Owego Strawberry Festival attracts a lot of individuals, it retains a relaxed, casual feeling.
For more information about the Owego Strawberry Festival, please visit the event website.