The Mineola Street Fair moves to Jericho Turnpike from Mineola Boulevard to Nassau Boulevard this year after spending four years in downtown Mineola.
Mineola Chamber of Commerce President Tony Lubrano said the new location represents a step up for the fair, which will take place on Sunday, Sept. 13 12 p.m to 6 p.m.
“We’ve been doing it the past four years downtown because we were concerned with the outlay of being on Jericho Turnpike,” Lubrano said. “It’s like being in the big leagues. It adds a whole new level being on Jericho Turnpike.”
The fair will run on Jericho Turnpike, from the east side of Mineola Boulevard over Willis Avenue to Nassau Boulevard. The event will also stretch north on Willis to Linden Road and South to Washington Avenue.
The fair spent the previous four years downtown in and around the intersection of Mineola Boulevard and 1st Street.
Lubrano, who is the owner of Picola Buscola at 159 Jericho Turnpike, said the wider roads of Jericho Turnpike and Willis Avenue will allow the fair to have more attractions for children such as both a petting zoo and pony rides
In previous years, Lubrano said, he had to choose between and petting zoo and pony rides and was limited to five rides. This year, he said, he expects more than 12.
Lubrano said fair stages at Willis Avenue and Linden Road and Jericho Turnpike at the intersection of Mineola Boulevard will also allow for more performers.
He added that the move incorporates businesses that were previously too far away from the fair’s location to really make an effort at setting up.
“We’re in front of people who didn’t participate before,” Lubrano said. “This gives them a chance to be fully involved.”
Entertainment organizers said Wednesday will be the last chance for performers to audition to appear at the Mineola Street Fair.
Auditions will run from 6-9 p.m. at Piccola Bussola and are mandatory for those interested in performing.
“We give them the opportunity to promote themselves and whoever they represent,” said Sheila Rettaliata, the Street Fair’s entertainment producer.
“There’s two rules: clothes on, mouths clean,” Rettaliata said.
Organizers ask those interested in performing to bring previous samples of their work, promotional material and sound and backline equipment.
“We want everyday people,” Rettaliata said. “Take a chance and use whatever you think is entertaining.”
