Neighbors come together for Northampton Day Festival

Residents from across Northampton Township turned out in large numbers on Sunday, September 14 for the 28th annual Northampton Day Festival. From 10 am to 4 pm, the festival, held at 98 Upper Holland Rd. (at the former Richboro Middle School) in Richboro, was filled with families, neighbors, and friends enjoying a full day of free rides, live entertainment, food, and community spirit.

For Steve Bryer, event chairperson since 2017, this festival represented more than just fun. “From the beginning, this was always about creating a day for the community,” he said. “It started 28 years ago, with a bunch of local people who wanted a fair where neighbors could meet, kids could enjoy some rides, and local crafters could share what they made, and this initial purpose has remained the same over the years.” 

However, three decades later, this festival had evolved into the township’s signature fall event, drawing between 3,500 and 4,500 visitors annually.

Supported by local businesses, generous sponsors, township staff, and a hardworking committee, Northampton Day has become more than a fair; it has grown into a tradition. “Whatever differences we might have, we can put them aside for this day,” Bryer said. “Everyone comes out and has a nice day together.”

This year’s lineup blended fresh additions with longtime favorites. The Greater Kensington String Band sent a large group of Mummers to perform, bringing lively costumes and music to the festival. In the past, they might have had three or four members walk around. This time, they brought a large group, and it really made the day extra special.

Also new this year was a cupcake contest for kids, where young bakers displayed their creations, and judges voted on their favorites.The Festival Committee tries to bring more community into this event every year. According to the committee, anything that gets the kids involved makes the day better.

As always, families filled the school auditorium to cheer for the annual talent show. The competition awarded a $250 prize to the first-place act, encouraging local performers to showcase their skills.

Another highlight of the day was the Children’s Marketplace, organized by Northampton Parks and Recreation. Over 20 young entrepreneurs set up booths to sell their handmade creations. 

“This is really a very kid-oriented event,” Bryer explained. “For kids in the township who are always looking for something to do, it gives them a chance to participate and feel proud of what they’ve created.”

Local groups added hometown pride throughout the day, with performances by the Northampton Indians football cheerleaders and the Richboro Elementary chorus. The festival stage hosted a steady stream of talent and live music that kept the crowd engaged.

Food was another major attraction. Thirteen food trucks offered a great diversity of food so everyone could find something to eat.

According to the Festival Committee, parents love knowing that all rides are now free.  About eight years ago, the committee changed the format so parents wouldn’t have to pay per ride, as they originally did. The committee wanted to create a day out that didn’t cost a lot of money. That was the original goal, and each year they get a little bigger and a little better at accomplishing that objective.

That commitment to affordability helps make Northampton Day a tradition for many families, who return year after year to enjoy the festivities without worrying about high costs.

Behind the scenes, dozens of volunteers made the day possible. Many were high school and college students from the area, earning community service hours while pitching in. This year, about 45 students donated their time to make this a special day. 

Committee members, many of whom had been involved for years, also played a vital role. This is a dedicated, strong committee. Everyone does their part so that when they put it all together, they have a really nice event.”

The Northampton Day Festival Committee operates as a 501(c)(3) public charity, separate from the township. While the group works closely with police, fire, and township staff for safety and support, it has always remained independent.

Proceeds from raffles, food trucks, vendor fees, and sponsorships go toward donations to local nonprofits and scholarships. In 2024, the committee awarded two $250 scholarships to graduating seniors who had volunteered at past festivals. Donations also included $500 to each Council Rock School District PTA in Northampton Township, as well as contributions to Autism Cares, the Council Rock Coalition for Healthy Youth, and ABLEForce, an organization in Richboro that creates job opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The Festival Committee likes to move the donations around, but suspects some of the organizations they have supported in the past will see donations again this year. At the end of the day, the festival gives back to the community in so many ways.

The raffle itself is always a highlight, offering prizes from local businesses and larger fan favorites. People really look forward to the raffle each year.

For Bryer, the most rewarding moment came as the day wound down. “What I look forward to most each year are the smiling faces as people leave,” he said. “I hope they remember that they had a good day out meeting friends and neighbors, and that it doesn’t have to cost a lot to go out and have a good time.”