The people behind Liverpool’s Privateer Days are reaching out for public support to cover shortfalls in this year's revenues for the event.

The annual June event routinely attracts thousands of visitors to the Liverpool area as it celebrates the former town's history with a parade, rides, food, music and more.

The organization usually receives a federal Heritage grant each year to cover most of their costs.

Privateer Days Treasurer Min Theile says due to changes in deadlines during COVID they missed their opportunity to apply this year. “It’s a big undertaking and typically, when we do get the Heritage grant it’s about $40,000 to put on,” said Theile. “We try to keep it as cost efficient, if cost zero for our participants just to make sure we can bring tourism to Queens County.”

Organizers needed to get creative and began reaching out to local businesses and organizing fundraising events.

Theile says business owners have been generous providing financial support and donations. Over $1,000 has been raised between a dance held in April and a raffle prize of one of three flights offered by members of the South Shore Flying Club.

Local businesses have been donating items towards an online auction as well, but Theile says that won’t go live until the Liverpool Regional High School Scholarship auction is complete in June.

The Privateers Day organizers are looking for volunteer to assist with the parade and their visitor information booth over the event being held June 23 -25.

Anyone wishing to offer their time can find information on the Privateer Days Facebook page or by e-mailing privateer.vice.chair@gmail.com.

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