With Summer 2023 upon us (and the 2024/25 tax grievance filing season concluded), it’s time to look at some of the great ways you can enjoy yourself here on Long Island in the next few months. You can have tons of fun on our beautiful island even if you’re on a tight budget; while not every one of the events and activities listed here are free, they’re all priced reasonably, which means any dollars spent while having fun will go a long way!
Enjoy Big Band Swing Under Aircraft Wings
Want to swing and sway to some of the best popular music of the 20th Century under the wings of historic aircraft? On Saturday, June 17th, the American Air Power Museum, in Farmingdale, will host a “Keep ‘em Flying Hanger Dance” in its largest airplane hangar, featuring Big Band and Swing music performed by the American Airpower Museum Band. Admission is free for museum members; the price for non-members is just $25. For more info and to buy tickets, go to: https://www.americanairpowermuseum.com/events/swing-under-the-stars-hangar-dance-at-the-american-airpower-museum/
Strut and Stroll at Garden City’s Friday Night Promenades
Beginning on June 9th, Garden City will host its popular weekly Friday Night Promenades. These free events, which will run from June until September from 5 to 10PM, feature live music, a family-friendly atmosphere, fun giveaways, and plenty of activities for the kids, including balloon art and face painting. The Promenade location is Seventh Street, Between Franklin Avenue and Hilton Avenue, Garden City, NY 11530. For more info, go to: https://www.gardencitychamber.org/
Shop and Dine at Massapequa Park’s “Park After Dark”
One day per month throughout the summer months, the Village of Massapequa Park shuts down Park Boulevard at Front Street from 5 to 9PM to allow for the whole family to enjoy shopping, dining at restaurants or the food truck rodeo, and listening to live music. Visit free of charge on June 14th, July 19th or August 16th. For more info, go to: https://mommypoppins.com/long-island-kids/event/events/park-after-dark#
Groove at Farmingdale’s “Music on Main Street” Events
Thursday evenings in Farmingdale will resound to the sound of music this summer with the village’s annual “Music on Main” events. Beginning on July 13th, a two-block area – between S. Front and Prospect streets – will close each Thursday between 4 and 9:45 PM to provide ample space for live musicians, strolling pedestrians, outdoor dining, and family fun. These events are free – to learn more, go to: https://www.farmingdalemusiconmain.com/
Get an Empire Pass — Your Passport to Beautiful LI State Parks
Long Island is home to some of New York State’s greatest State Parks, and the Empire State Pass is your ticket to getting the most out of them at minimal cost. For just $80 ($72 if you choose a “green” digital pass), you can avoid paying the vehicle use fee at some of the best natural attractions on Long Island, including Jones Beach, Camp Hero, Orient Beach State Park, Heckscher State Park, the Long Island State Pine Barrens Preserve, and dozens of others. If you’re thinking of taking a vacation off-island, the Empire Pass gives you access to the many beautiful parks, lakes, and historical sites found across New York State, including Bear Mountain, Niagara Falls, and the Thousand Islands. For more info, go to: https://parks.ny.gov/admission/empire-passport/default.aspx
Take a 1-Day Long Island Summer Micro-Vacation
We’re a big fan of economical day-tripping, so why not treat yourself to a 1-Day Micro-Vacation on Long Island? Click on the link to learn about visiting Gold Coast Mansions of the North Shore, taking part in the Great Long Island Art Safari, exploring Revolutionary War adventures in Setauket, and much more. (Note: for destinations offering tours or limited access programs, it’s always best to call or email ahead before hopping in your car and heading to the location.)
Or Leave the Car at Home!
This summer and through the Fall of 2023, the Long Island Railroad is hosting an intriguing set of moderately-priced, fully escorted 1-day guided tours of famous Long Island attractions, including tours of the Montauk Lighthouse & Sag Harbor, Gatsby-style mansions of the North Shore, the North Fork, and Adventureland & Farmingdale Village. Tickets may be purchased at Gray, Green or Blue Ticket Machines and ticket windows at LIRR stations. Select “MTA Away Deals,” then, “Escorted Tours,” then the tour. Prices range from $64.75 to $80.00. For more info, go to: https://away.mta.info/
Whatever you choose to do this summer, we at Maidenbaum hope you enjoy, and maybe we’ll see you there!