Thursday, October 1, 2026
The holidays shine brighter on Long Island. This season, Discover Long Island invites you to explore your own backyard and celebrate with local events, festive traditions, and moments that make the season truly special. From waterfront parades to cozy wineries and dazzling light displays, Suffolk County is where hometown magic meets holiday wonder.
Across Long Island, the holiday season fills every weekend with joy. The Port Jefferson Santa Parade & Visit brings the harbor to life with music, lights, and community spirit, while the Station Yards Holiday Market offers local gifts, festive décor, and handcrafted treasures that capture the magic of the season. One of the region’s most beloved traditions, the Charles Dickens Festival in Port Jefferson, transforms the village into a Victorian holiday scene complete with costumed characters, carolers, and old-fashioned merriment that delights visitors year after year.
Families can dive into creativity with Deep Sea Dreidels at The Whaling Museum in Cold Spring Harbor or craft something memorable during Wreathmaking with Hometown Flower Co. at RGNY Wine in Riverhead. At the Vanderbilt Museum and Reichert Planetarium, the Winter Solstice Workshops combine science, art, and hands-on fun for all ages. And for kids with boundless energy, Urban Air Lake Grove’s Extended Holiday Hours ensure the excitement never stops.
Holiday cheer also takes the stage at CM Performing Arts Center in Oakdale, where favorites like Frosty’s Big Day and A Christmas Carol return to delight audiences year after year. And no Long Island holiday is complete without a stop at The Big Duck in Flanders — a whimsical landmark dressed up in twinkling lights and overflowing with local charm. From parades to performances, Suffolk County offers festive fun around every corner.
This time of year, Long Island’s downtowns shine with personality and warmth. Stroll through Port Jefferson, Patchogue, Babylon, or Greenport to find glowing storefronts, seasonal décor, and one-of-a-kind shops perfect for finding meaningful gifts. Enjoy a hot drink from a local café, browse artisan boutiques, and feel the energy of small-town spirit that makes each visit feel personal. Shopping small isn’t just about gifts — it’s about giving back to the communities that make Long Island special.
Raise a glass to the season in Long Island Wine Country, where cozy tasting rooms and vineyard views set the scene for unforgettable moments. Visit wineries like Osprey’s Dominion, Terra Vite, Pindar Vineyards, and Wölffer Estate to experience festive pairings and rich flavors that capture the essence of the holidays.
If you’re craving something different, explore the island’s many craft breweries and distilleries, each pouring creativity into their seasonal offerings. Whether you’re toasting with friends or picking up a bottle as a thoughtful gift, Long Island’s beverage scene is as diverse as it is delicious.
The holidays on Long Island are all about connection — to community, creativity, and one another. Spend your days exploring light-filled downtowns, discovering hidden gems, and taking part in traditions that bring people together. End the night with a warm meal, a local wine by the fire, or a scenic drive through one of the region’s beautifully decorated towns.
This year, embrace the season and experience the joy of celebrating close to home. Plan your holiday adventures at DiscoverLongIsland.com, your official guide to local events, festive fun, and the experiences that make Long Island shine. Make this the year you celebrate the holidays where you BeLong.
