Syracuse’s beloved Taste of Syracuse and Syracuse Nationals events are moving forward this year after a recent agreement resolved a legal dispute over ownership, organizers confirmed Wednesday. The resolution averts a potential shutdown of the popular Central New York traditions, which draw large crowds and contribute significantly to the local economy.
The agreement between Galaxy Media Partners and Rasselas Trust was reached out of court, according to Carrie Wojtaszek, owner of Moment Maker Agency. Galaxy Media Events will continue to produce both the Taste of Syracuse food festival and the Syracuse Nationals classic car present. Although specific details of the settlement remain confidential, Wojtaszek emphasized that plans are already underway for this year’s events.
“Central New York has a long tradition of supporting these community events,” Wojtaszek said. “Moment Maker Agency is excited to work alongside the Galaxy Events team that has been in place for years. Their dedication to these events has never wavered, and together we gaze forward to continuing to deliver the experiences that attendees, sponsors and partners have come to expect.”
The Dispute: A $1.1 Million Loan and Ownership Claims
The legal battle stemmed from a loan provided by Rasselas Trust to Galaxy Media in August 2025. According to a lawsuit filed on February 16 in the Supreme Court of Onondaga County, Galaxy Media sought $1.1 million to stabilize its finances. The agreement stipulated that if Galaxy Media was unable to repay the loan, Rasselas Trust would gain ownership of certain assets and revenues associated with the Taste of Syracuse and Syracuse Nationals. CNYCentral reported on the initial claims made in the lawsuit.
The lawsuit alleged that Galaxy Media Partners and Galaxy Events LLC were legally obligated to transfer ownership of the events to the trust. Justice Robert Antonacci, presiding over the case, reportedly described the events as “treasures that were at stake,” highlighting their importance to the community.
Temporary Restraining Order Withdrawn
The situation escalated in February when Rasselas Trust sought a temporary restraining order against Galaxy Media, a move that threatened to halt the company’s operations. However, on February 27, the trust withdrew the order, paving the way for negotiations and the recent agreement. The withdrawal prevented an immediate disruption to event planning and allowed for a resolution to be reached.
What’s Next for Taste of Syracuse and Syracuse Nationals?
With the legal hurdles cleared, organizers are now focused on preparing for the upcoming events. Wojtaszek confirmed that planning is already underway, though specific dates and details have not yet been released. The Taste of Syracuse typically takes place in June, offering a wide array of food vendors and entertainment, while the Syracuse Nationals, a nationally recognized classic car show, is usually held in July. Those interested in updates on the Syracuse Nationals can find information on their official website.
The resolution of this dispute ensures the continuation of two events deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of Central New York. The Taste of Syracuse and Syracuse Nationals not only provide entertainment but also generate significant economic activity for the region, supporting local businesses and creating jobs.
Stakeholders Express Relief
The agreement has been met with relief from various stakeholders, including event sponsors, vendors, and attendees. The uncertainty surrounding the events had created anxiety within the community, and the resolution provides a sense of stability and allows for continued investment in these cherished traditions.
The long-term implications of the agreement remain to be seen, but for now, the focus is on delivering successful events this year. Organizers have promised to release additional details in the coming weeks, including dates, schedules, and vendor information.
Further updates regarding the events will be available through official channels, including the Galaxy Media Events website and social media platforms. The community can anticipate a return of these popular events, continuing a tradition of celebration and community spirit in Central New York.
Organizers are currently in the planning phases for both events, and additional details will be released in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for announcements regarding dates, entertainment lineups, and vendor participation.
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