Eldred’s in a Pickle—in the Best Way Possible

A briny blend of food, fun, and fermentation is taking over Eldred this weekend. Sullivan Public is hosting its first-ever Public Pickle Party on Sunday, August 10, promising an afternoon packed with hands-on pickling, garden swapping, local flavors, and even a glowing pickle science show.“It’s part food fest, part garden swap, and all small-town joy,” said Jesse Lazar, co-founder of Sullivan Public, a community-driven arts and culture hub. The idea for the quirky celebration started during a snowstorm, when local farmer Austin Nash asked if Sullivan Public had ever hosted a pickling event. They hadn’t—so naturally, they decided they had to. Now, that offhand idea has fermented into a full-scale community happening.Pickling for AllFrom 12:00 to 2:00 p.m., Nash—who works with Hidden Acre Farm and regularly sells produce at farmers markets—will lead a live pickling demo, guiding participants through the process of preserving fresh vegetables using sweet and sour brines. “There’s going to be giant lobster pots of brine,” said Lazar. “You slice up veggies, shove them in a jar, and the magic is in the brine.”No experience or garden required. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own produce and clean jars, but locally grown vegetables and containers will also be available at cost for those who need them.The idea, said Lazar, is about more than just preserving cucumbers—it's about cultivating connection. “Gardens are often private spaces. This is a way to make that experience communal,” she said. “It’s great for little kids, seasoned adults, and anyone in between.”A Community CelebrationThe event runs 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at 16 Proctor Road in Eldred, next to the post office and behind the library. In addition to pickling, the celebration will include Mr. Jason’s glowing pickle science demo, teaching curious minds about electrodes and electrolytes through electrified pickles.“I’m not a kid, and I’m very excited,” laughed Lazar. “There’s something magical about a glowing pickle.”More Than a PartyThe Pickle Party is part of Sullivan Public’s Second Sunday series, designed to create space for community interaction in rural Sullivan County.“In a place as spread out as this, you sometimes need an excuse to gather,” said Lazar. “It doesn’t need to be about buying something or making something great—it’s about showing up and being together.”More Info: sullivanpublic.com or follow @sullivanpublic on Instagram