Author: VillageFreeville

The Village of Freeville is pleased to share that The Village Pantry, located at 24 Main Street, will celebrate its Grand Opening on Monday, September 21, from 5:00PM to 8:00PM.

Residents are invited to stop in, meet the owner, and enjoy an evening featuring door prizes and a visit from Pizza Therapy, who will be on site selling their wood-fired pies. Community members who have tried Pizza Therapy know how popular their offerings are, and this event provides a great opportunity to enjoy them while welcoming a new local business.

The Village Pantry will be closed during the day on Monday to prepare for the event, but regular operating hours are as follows:

• Monday: 6:30am – 1:00pm & 3:00pm – 6:00pm
• Tuesday: 6:30am – 1:00pm
• Wednesday: 6:30am – 1:00pm & 3:00pm – 6:00pm
• Thursday: 6:30am – 1:00pm

The owner shared that they are deeply grateful for the community’s support and appreciate everyone’s patience as they continue working to increase production and expand offerings. The Grand Opening is an opportunity for residents to see the space, learn more about the products available, and support a new Main Street business.

We encourage all residents to stop by, enjoy the event, and help welcome The Village Pantry to the Freeville business community.

The Freeville Harvest Festival returns on Saturday, September 12th, bringing a full day of food, music, family activities, and community spirit to Main Street. Hosted by the Freeville United Methodist Church, this year’s festival blends long‑loved traditions with a meaningful opportunity to honor both our local heroes and one of Freeville’s most cherished community members.

The day begins at 9:30 AM with a special recognition ceremony for the members of the Freeville Fire Department and local first responders. Coffee and morning treats will be available as neighbors gather to show appreciation for those who serve and protect our community.

From breakfast to barbecue, the festival offers something for everyone:

• 9:00 AM – Breakfast sandwiches and coffee from the grill
• 11:00 AM – Famous chicken BBQ dinner, hotdogs, and homemade pie by the slice

Live entertainment runs throughout the day, including:

• 10:00 AM – Lisa Gayle, Dance Movement Therapy
• 12:00 PM – The Rose Alaimo Trio
• 1:00 PM – Premium Blend, Ithaca College’s all‑female a cappella group

Families will find plenty to enjoy:

• 10:30 AM – Kids Parade (Theme: Harvest Vegetable)
• 11:00 AM – Storytime with Southworth Library featuring special guest Bluey
• 11:00 AM–1:00 PM – Face painting, kids crafts and games, blessing of the animals, and hands‑on activities with the Fire Department

Throughout the festival, attendees are invited to support the Nancy Carver Day of Sharing & Caring, a community collection effort honoring the life and service of Nancy Carver.

The second flyer describes Nancy as “a woman whose kindness left a lasting imprint on all who knew her.” Her decades of volunteer work—mission trips, Habitat for Humanity, and advocacy for children and families—continue to inspire Freeville today.

In her memory, the festival will collect personal care items for the Women’s Opportunity Center in Ithaca, including:

• Soap and body wash
• Toothbrushes and toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Diapers
• Baby wipes
• Other essential hygiene items

Donations may be brought directly to the collection space at the festival.

The Harvest Festival has always been a celebration of Freeville’s spirit—neighbors gathering, children laughing, music filling Main Street, and volunteers working side by side. This year’s event deepens that tradition by honoring both our first responders and Nancy Carver’s legacy of compassion.

Join us on September 12th from 9:30 AM–2 PM at the Freeville United Methodist Church for a day of gratitude, celebration, and community care.

The Freeville Annual Community Picnic is just around the corner, and we’re excited to welcome neighbors for an afternoon of good food, outdoor fun, and time together as a community.

📅 Date: Sunday, August 30 ⏰ Time: 12:30–2:30pm 📍 Location: Freeville Elementary School Pavilion

This year’s picnic will feature hotdogs, Jean’s homemade apple pies a la mode, and ice cream from Toads Too, along with other frozen treats to help everyone stay cool. Residents are encouraged to bring a picnic dish to share and, if possible, bring your own plate and utensils to help reduce waste.

Yard games will be set up for all ages, and families are welcome to bring their own favorites. The playground will be open for kids, and the event will be held rain or shine.

While you’re here, take a moment to support the Freeville Farmers Market and enjoy the chance to connect with neighbors, friends, and new faces.

We look forward to seeing you there.

The McLean Potato Festival on Saturday, July 25 is shaping up to be a full day of food, fun, and community spirit. Two major events—the Potato Salad Contest and the Car & Motorcycle Show—will bring together residents, families, and visitors for a lively summer celebration at Cassavant School.

Think your potato salad has what it takes to win over the crowd? McLean is inviting cooks of all ages and styles to enter their Potato Salad Contest at the festival.

• Contest Begins: 11:30 AM
• Location: Cassavant School
• Entry: Free
• What to Bring: A 3×13 dish holding 3–5 lbs of your best potato salad
• Prizes: Top 3 winners + People’s Choice Award

It’s a fun, friendly competition that celebrates creativity, tradition, and good food. Whether you’re entering or just tasting, it’s a great way to kick off the day.

Alongside the food festivities, the McLean Potato Fest is hosting a lively Car & Motorcycle Show featuring classic cars, custom builds, motorcycles, and more.

• Time: 11 AM – 3 PM
• Location: Cassavant School
• Entry Fees: $20 per car, $10 per bike
• Prizes: Best in Show
• Extras: Goodie bags for the first 50 entrants + a stereo contest

It’s a perfect event for vehicle lovers and families alike—a chance to stroll through rows of impressive rides, meet local owners, and enjoy a relaxed summer afternoon.

Both events highlight the creativity, enthusiasm, and community pride that make local festivals so special. Residents from across the area are encouraged to stop by, participate, and enjoy a day filled with great food, great vehicles, and great company.

For questions or entry details, email mcleanfestival@gmail.com.