Your Ultimate Long Island Weekender: August 1–3, 2025; Your Curated Roundup for Planning Across Nassau & Suffolk

LONG ISLAND, NY – Spectacular summer weather is here, and Long Island beckons with a palette of experiences – from seaside thrills and nature escapes to cultural concerts and community festivals. Whether you’re exploring the outdoors, diving into local arts, or planning family adventures, here’s your weekend sorted by theme:
Outdoor & Nature
- Long Island History Hunt (various LI museums, Fri–Sun)
A fun, interactive scavenger-style challenge across local museums and historic landmarks—great for learning on the go. - Morgan Park Music Festival (Glen Cove, Sunday evenings)
Free gazebo concerts in a waterfront setting, part of Glen Cove’s summer lineup. - Old Bethpage Village Restoration (Old Bethpage, Fri–Sun)
Step into 19th-century Long Island with costumed interpreters, historic structures, and traditional crafts at this 209‑acre living museum. - Adventureland Amusement Park (East Farmingdale, Fri–Sun)
Open all weekend with over 30 rides – including roller coasters and water attractions – ideal for thrill-seekers and families.
Culture & Creative Experiences
- Butterfly Basket Weaving Workshop (Hallockville Museum, Riverhead, Sat)
Craft your own nature-inspired basket in a hands-on session rooted in heritage folk art. - Whaling Museum’s “Jaws-Some” Scavenger Hunt (Cold Spring Harbor, daily 11 a.m.–4 p.m.)
Celebrate Jaws 50th anniversary by hunting for jawbones and hidden items across the exhibits. - Spanish Immersion Kids Club Jr. (CMEE, Bridgehampton, Sat morning)
Language-focused craft session for toddlers and preschoolers combining Spanish learning and creativity.
Family & Community Events
- Sayville Summerfest (Sayville, Fri–Sun) – A waterfront weekend festival with rides, live bands, art displays, international food, and a car show.
- Commack Volunteer Ambulance 5K & Fun Run (Sat morning) – Community event—5K race plus a fun run, with proceeds supporting local services.
- Free Outdoor Movie Nights Return to Long Island Parks for Summer 2025; June Through August “Movies in the Park”
Music & Festival Nights
- Neighborhood Concert Series (Hempstead Town parks, Fri–Sun evenings) – Free outdoor shows at venues such as Levittown’s East Village Green on Friday night.
- Bridgehampton Chamber Music Festival (Bridgehampton, ongoing through Aug 17) – Intimate classical concerts inspired by literature – includes both indoor and outdoor experiences.
Food, Trails & Local Flavors
- Alive on 25 – Patchogue (Friday evening block party)
Street party featuring food trucks, music, craft drinks, and local vendors in downtown Patchogue. - Local food spots & trails — new Hamptons restaurants and farm experiences open for exploring during weekends across the East End.
Sample Weekend Itinerary – August 1–3
Friday
- Evening: Enjoy live music and street eats at Alive on 25 in Patchogue.
- Later: Catch a free Neighborhood Concert in Levittown or another Hempstead Park.
Saturday
- Morning: Join CMEE’s Kids Club Jr. in Bridgehampton or try basket weaving in Riverhead.
- Midday: Test your community spirit in the Commack 5K & Fun Run.
- Afternoon: Step into history at Old Bethpage Village Restoration.
- Evening: Wind down with a classical performance at the Bridgehampton Chamber Music Festival.
Sunday
- Morning: Adventure at Adventureland or explore the Island History Hunt.
- Afternoon: Picnic and free music at Morgan Park in Glen Cove.
- Evening: Cap off with more free live music at a Hempstead Park or an outdoor movie night.
Quick Guide Table
Category | Event | Timing | Ideal For |
---|---|---|---|
Outdoor & Nature | Old Bethpage, Adventureland, History Hunt | Aug 1–3 | Families, explorers, thrill-seekers |
Culture & Workshops | Basket weaving, Spanish Kids Club, Jaws Hunt | Fri–Sat | Creative families |
Community Events | Sayville Summerfest, Commack 5K | Aug 1–2 | Local fest, fitness-focused |
Music & Festivals | Park concerts, BCMF | Evening events | Music lovers & arts fans |
Food & Local Flavor | Patchogue block party, Hamptons spots | Fri–Sun evenings | Foodies & scenic explorers |