In Northport during the year 1973, in late September, the Cow Harbor weekend was created. A two day span that originally was created to boost business and morale of Northport’s famous “Main Street” because at the time in the 70’s, it was struggling for many different reasons. It was the reigniting spark for downtown Northport village. It started as a small village gathering with music and food and dancing, and then it was known as “The Great Cow Harbor.” But now it has become a weekend staple in the Northport Community, summing up a 6 mile race (the 10 k), “The Cow Harbor Race”, and “The Cow Harbor Day Parade.” Over the years up to 2025, the Cow Harbor Weekend has become an extremely diverse event for people all over the country and even a few out of the country! The diversity is mainly held within the race. This is because the race has become extremely popular and people who either have family here, or even just love running come down and participate.
The Cow Harbor Race. Also known as the 6 mile run (the 10 k) where anybody from anywhere, near or far, old or young can participate, try their best, and run fast or slow. This race is a dedication and celebration to the village itself and its community. There is no rush. Many people walk the entire thing for a fundraiser off some sort. Or maybe an old couple walking or jogging together just to spend time together. And then there are people who come from all over to run it as fast as possible. So the range of finishing times can be from as low as 6 minutes, to as walk along the street as well while holding American Flags.
high as 2 hours. Everyone finishes the race with applause. It’s really a great sight to see and an event to be a part of. And a few years ago the managers of the Cow Harbor Race created a smaller, more accessible race known as the “Fun Run”. It is a 1.5 mile (2 k) run where lots of little kids and parents who have a spouse or friend in the real Cow harbor Race run it together. And at the end of the Fun Run you get a small metal that shows you completed the race and you also get a Popsicle. And once you finish the 6 mile race you can head over to after events at certain buildings down town. For example, RB Homes Realty up on the hill of Scudder Road.
The following day on that Sunday, the Cow Harbor Day Parade takes place. Near noon the Northport Marching Band marches the streets around Main Street and eventually enters the street itself. From there hundreds of people stand around watching the Band play the National Anthem as well as their 2025 field show in the small street for the community. And following them there are many boy/ girl scouts troops and eagle scout troops that
It really is a staple in the community and town of Northport and it leaves an impact on everyone that comes. From food to music, or even friends to family. Everyone comes together and admires and celebrate the town they know and love. Northport.
