East Meadow residents won’t have to travel far for entertainment this winter and spring, with community events that spotlight music, culture and creativity. From a longtime Kiwanis fundraiser to a traditional Lion Dance performance and a weekend-long anime festival, local organizations and the public library are offering engaging experiences for all ages. Here are three upcoming events to know about.
The East Meadow Kiwanis Club will host its 17th annual “Name That Tune” fundraiser on Friday, Feb. 13, at the East Meadow Fire House, continuing a tradition that blends music trivia with community support. The popular event draws residents for a night of friendly competition, laughter and nostalgia as teams race to identify well-known songs.
The fundraiser runs from 7 to 11 p.m., with the game beginning at 8 p.m. Admission is $45 and includes food, beer, soda, coffee and dessert. Raffles, prizes and a 50/50 drawing will also be held throughout the evening. Proceeds benefit Kiwanis programs that support local children and families, and sponsorship opportunities are available for individuals and businesses looking to support the club’s charitable work.
The East Meadow Public Library will host an in-person Lion Dance performance by Authentic Shaolin as part of its Sunday Concert series later this winter, offering residents a chance to experience a centuries-old cultural tradition. Often performed during Lunar New Year celebrations and other festive occasions, the Lion Dance symbolizes good fortune, prosperity and happiness.
The performance combines music, movement and martial arts, with trained Kung Fu practitioners performing inside a vibrant lion costume. Accompanied by the rhythmic beats of drums and gongs, the dancers mimic a lion’s movements, expressions and interactions. The performers train extensively to master the physical discipline required for the dance. Registration is required, with sign-ups opening first for East Meadow library cardholders and limited to four seats per registrant.
EMcon Animefest 2026 will return to the East Meadow Public Library on Saturday and Sunday, April 25 and 26, transforming the building into a hub for anime, manga and pop-culture fans. Presented by the library, the event has grown into one of Long Island’s fastest-growing small conventions and attracts attendees of all ages.
The weekend will feature cosplay masquerades and contests, artist alleys, game tournaments, anime screenings and live concerts. Attendees can also take part in drawing workshops, anime lectures and group discussions centered on fandom and creativity. Designed to be inclusive and educational, EMcon blends entertainment with learning in a family-friendly environment, reinforcing the library’s role as a cultural gathering place beyond books and reading.
