Westcott Street Cultural Fair celebrates a tradition of people, art and unity

For many, the Westcott Street Cultural Fair is more than just a one-day event — it’s a testament to the neighborhood’s vibrant, inclusive character and longstanding tradition of bringing people together. The annual September fair is one of Syracuse’s most beloved traditions, celebrating the diversity, creativity, and community spirit that defines the Westcott neighborhood.

The fair, now in its 32nd year, serves as a cultural gathering for local artists, performers, and businesses. More than 40 local organizations and businesses contributed to making the event possible, giving the community groups a chance to give back and showcase their work.

Local businesses take center stage

One of the fair’s standout features is its strong support for local businesses. Mitch Hendrax, the owner of Maverick Bead Studios, is one of the many vendors who has made the fair a key part of his yearly schedule. His studio, a staple in the Westcott community for almost a decade, has been involved in the fair for seven years. Maverick Bead Studios designs bead art, turning favorite characters, video game sprites, and logos into fun keychains, jewelry, and more. 

“This is my seventh year participating in the fair, and our studio has been open for nine years,” Hendrax said. “I love seeing the children grow up and collect new pieces each year. It’s rewarding to see their excitement over my new creations. I’ve known this fair since I was a kid — I used to dress up and join the parade. It’s a part of my life.”

For Hendrax, the fair is more than just an opportunity to sell his bead designs. It’s a chance to reconnect with his customers, many of whom have been visiting his booth year after year. 

Spreading kindness one water bottle at a time

While the vendors and performances are a big draw, the fair is also an important event for local organizations looking to promote kindness. The Syracuse Quakers have been involved with the fair for years, setting up a booth to provide free water, books, and dog treats to fairgoers. For them, it’s all about giving back to the neighborhood.

“We’ve been participating on and off for as long as the fair has been running,” Liz Sharp, co-clerk of the Syracuse Quakers said. “We love being here… it’s about kindness—offering a place to sit, drink, and stay hydrated. Kindness can be contagious, and we really need that in our community.”

For the Quakers, something as simple as offering water is an important reminder of the power of small gestures. Their booth has become a symbol of the fair’s welcoming spirit, reflecting the sense of community and care that defines Westcott.

Mega bubble magic delights the crowd

Among the many family-friendly activities, one of the most enchanting is the performance by Jim Livi, known as the “Mega Bubble Man.” In just three years, Livi has become a crowd favorite at the fair, leaving children and adults in awe with his massive, shimmering bubbles. But for Livi, it’s not just about creating bubbles — it’s about creating an experience.

“I’ve learned to make my own bubble solution, and I’m always experimenting with different formulas,” Livi said. “For the wands, we get creative — using everything from plastic piping to fabric lace. The real magic happens when we get the right combination for the bubbles to float gracefully. It’s about more than just bubbles; it’s about joy and connection.”

Livi’s mesmerizing bubbles capture the essence of what makes the Westcott Street Cultural Fair so special: the ability to create moments of wonder and happiness for everyone involved. His performances highlight the fair’s focus on family-friendly fun and creative expression.

A celebration of Westcott’s unique identity

At its heart, the Westcott Street Cultural Fair is a celebration of what makes this Syracuse neighborhood so unique. From the colorful parade to the booths featuring local food, art, and music, the event brings together the many cultures and backgrounds that shape Westcott’s identity. 

The fair is an annual reminder of the power of community — of neighbors supporting each other, local businesses thriving, and people from all walks of life coming together to celebrate their shared sense of place.