Perfect Conditions For New City Street Fair

Organizers proclaimed that Sunday’s New City Street Fair a success. 

“We’re just thrilled to have a perfect day for another perfect street fair,” said New City Chamber of Commerce Vice President Gillian Ballard. “Our efforts to promote business in New City are highlighted by events like this.” 

Robert Barilli, Chamber of Commerce treasurer, added, “It’s a real family day and that’s what we look forward to.” 

South Main Street was filled with people, some with pets, families with young children held by the hand and in strollers and politicians during the seven-hour long event.  

There was plenty to see and do at the street fair. More than 100 vendor booths lined the street from Congers Road to First Street selling, books, health and beauty products, handmade crafts, jewelry, photography sessions, sports memorabilia, clothing, tie dye items. Others offered services like health care and home renovations. A myriad of activities entertained children from bounce houses, slides to go karts, bumper cars, and a maze to mini golf, colorful sand art, bubbles, glitter tattoos and prize wheels.

Two and half year old Aiden of New City was having a great time exploring the inflatable animal maze. 

“This is the first one I finally convinced him to go on,” said Joseph, his father. 

Food aromas filled the air with choices of Italian and Polish specialties, nuts, honey, pickles, ices, hot sauce and many more treats. Entertainers took to the street and the stage.  Musicians played and knife juggler performed on the stage set up in parking lot on South Main.

“The weather is fine up here, not a cloud in the sky,” Keith Leaf, told passersby as he towered over them at 8’6” tall on stilts.

Vendors wore broad smiles all day. 

“Actually I think it’s better than last year, a lot more people, a lot more vendors” said Beth Valardi, a medical associates at Walk-In Medical Urgent Care of New City as she handed out free sand pails to children who stopped at the booth.

Ellen Arkin, owner of Strawtown Jewelry said, she was having a terrific time with the great weather, music and constant flow of people stopping at her booth.

“It’s an event,” she said.

“Everyone is very interested in the things I have and ask lots of questions,” said Robin Chillino of Lulu Cakes. Her brand new business is creating diaper and towel “cakes.”

Four-year-old Aliza and three-and-a-half year old Sydney of New City happily dashed from one ride to another. 

Eight-year-olds Maya and Hailey of New City showed off their brightly colored sand art. 

“(I) Love it,” said Hailey talking about her creation.

Maya said, “It’s so much fun to me.”