OSWEGO, N.Y. -- With Harborfest getting underway, boats are lining the docks in Oswego as people make their way to the port city for the four day festival.
"If you own a boat, might as well get out and enjoy it," said Brewerton resident Alan Capato.
And if you're docking on either side of the River Walk, you'll have to deal with the harbor master, who was out Wednesday making sure boats were docked properly.
"I got a couple boats in a restricted area now and I'm sure they're unaware of it," said Oswego Harbor Master Fred Crisafulli.
Boaters who want to dock here for Harborfest can do so for a fee of $20 a night. And when boaters get here, the harbor master gives them a packet that includes a walking tour map of the city. But space fills up quickly, so the sooner you get here, the better chance you'll have of getting a spot.
As Harborfest draws closer, people are heading to the port city by both land and water. With most of the four-day festival taking place near the water, there are plenty of boaters. Our Andy Mattison caught up with a few of them and found the festival attracts people from all over the state.
"Get here early. That's the main thing is get here early no matter where you're going to dock," said Capato.
And people are coming from everywhere. One couple we talked with came all the way from Long Island and it's their first time in the port city.
"Coming from New York, this is so relaxed. We don't have such a nice atmosphere by us," said Frank Christy of Long Island.
A nice atmosphere everyone hopes to enjoy for the next couple of days.
"My wife and I really like the blues and the blues stage on east park over here," said Capato.
"We brought a little dingy with us too, which you can't quite see from here. And we take that out and ride around the harbor and get some balloons going and make some bloody mary’s and pina coladas and just have a fun time," said Christy.
One note for boaters. Those of you heading south will not be able to go under the Bridge Street Bridge due to construction.
For more information on Harborfest, visit www.oswegoharborfest.com