Arts & Theatre News » Fire Island News & Great South Bay News

On Sundays in 1962, television host Chuck McCann, would read the New York Sunday News, which featured the cartoon character Little Orphan Annie. He wore white circular discs over his eyes to portray Annie as he read the comic strip aloud. Such an oddity to me back then, those discs affixed to the eyes scared me. It even led me to dislike the Little Orphan Annie comic strip. However, seeing the production of Annie at the Argyle Theatre, directed by Valerie Wright, completely changed my mindset.

“Annie” at Babylon’s Argyle Theatre

Posted on December 19, 2025

Saturday, December 20 Meet Santa at Willy Nilly Trading Cue the sleigh bells—the magic of the holiday season comes alive. Santa will make one last appearance at the Willy Nilly Trading Christmas Store on December 20, from 1 to 4 p.m., before he prepares for his busy week ahead! A visit with Santa is free, and there is a complimentary candy cane for the kids! Plus, you can take magical photos with Santa on your mobile device. Friends and family are welcome. Willy Nilly Trading is located at 153 West Main Street in Bay Shore.

Countdown to Christmas Day on the Great South Bay: December Things Do This Weekend and the Week Ahead

Posted on December 18, 2025

In the heart of December, the holiday edition of Great South Bay News is on its way to newsstands, and we are confident it will enrich your celebrations.

Holiday Cheer is Here with Our December Edition of Great South Bay News

Posted on December 17, 2025

Saturday, December 13 23rd Reenactment of the Flying Santa at Fire Island Lighthouse Santa arrives at the lighthouse for his commemorative reenactment of the historic event at the Fire Island Lighthouse, off Field 5. A great photo opportunity, this event offers the chance to form lifelong memories with your little ones! Arrive early and dress for the weather; temperatures and wind can be intense during the off-season months. This event is FREE to attend. For more information, visit fireislandlighthouse.com

What’s SUP Santa? Things to Do This Week, In the Heart of December, Along the Great South Bay

Posted on December 12, 2025

The Historical Society of Islip Hamlet will host its 2025 Holiday House Tour from 12 noon to 4 p.m., with a reception until 5 p.m. Several historically and/or architecturally interesting homes will be decorated for the holidays as tour guides in Victorian dress greet you at each house. At the reception, there will be a Holiday auction, a 50/50 raffle, and refreshments. All tickets go on sale starting Nov. 3rd at Caroline’s Flower Shoppe and Maple St. Deli (cash or check only), or on our website beginning Oct. 20th via Eventbrite. Ticket donations are $35/adult (no one under age 16 permitted) and are non-refundable; a small processing fee applies when purchased through Eventbrite. Please donate a new, unwrapped toy for the John Theissen Children’s Foundation. For more information, visit isliphamlethistory.org, or call 631-559-2915.

It’s Beginning to Feel A lot Like Christmas: Things to Do this Week Along the Great South Bay During the 2nd Week of December

Posted on December 5, 2025

Classic holiday tunes come to life as Jane Lynch, Kate Flannery, Tim Davis, and the Tony Guerrero Quintet take the stage in A Swingin’ Little Christmas, showing at Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts, 71 East Main Street, Patchogue, at 8 p.m. The hilarious and heartwarming holiday extravaganza is a delightful blend of comedy and music, ensuring a ‘swingin’ good time for all audiences! This group has brought their joyful banter to audiences across the country—experience the showstopper for yourself this holiday season! Admission: ~$60-$90 including fees. For tickets and more details, visit patchoguetheatre.org.

The November to December Holiday Miracle Across the Great South Bay

Posted on November 26, 2025

Free music at the best bookshop in Indy Sayville begins at 2 p.m. Featured bands include Dan Board Hula Mat, Ang, Pin Cushion, and Bad Guise. The bands might be edgy, but Tiny Raccoon Books is a family-friendly place, located at 277 Railroad Avenue in Sayville.

November Through Thanksgiving: South Shore Events Happening Before and After Turkey Day

Posted on November 20, 2025

The New York Long Island Film Festival (NYLIFF) showcased 114 films at the Moose Lodge #1421 and the South Shore Theatre Experience, both located in Lindenhurst, over the five-day event.

The 7th Annual New York Long Island Film Festival Returns to Lindenhurst

Posted on November 15, 2025

Sunday, November 16 Poinsettia Paper Quilling Workshop BAFFA Art Gallery will conduct a Poinsettia Paper Quilling Workshop with Carol McMahon on Sunday, November 16th, at the Gallery from 1 to 3 p.m.. Tickets are required for this workshop. Cost is $30.00 for BAFFA members and $35.00 for non-members. For additional information, visit www.BAFFA.org. The BAFFA Art Gallery is located at 47 Gillette Avenue in Sayville.

In the Heart of November: Things to Do Over the Week Ahead Along the Great South Bay and Beyond on Long Island

Posted on November 13, 2025

Tuesday, November 11 Veterans Day at Fire Island Lighthouse In appreciation of all the men and women who have served in the United State military branches, Fire Island Lighthouse Preservation Society is offering free tower tours to all veterans during regular operation hours. Fire Island Lighthouse is located at 1 Burma Road on Fire Island. Parking is available at Robert Moses, Field 5. Visit fireislandlighthouse.com for more information.

The Second Week of November: Things Going on Around Town Along the Great South Bay

Posted on November 7, 2025

Thursday, November 6 Movies Turning 50 The Islip Arts Council (IAC) and AARP Long Island present Movies Turning 50, a celebration of classic films turning 50 years old! Enjoy a screening of Tommy at Sayville Movie Theater, 103 Railroad Avenue, Sayville, at 7 p.m. Registration is required; visit isliparts.org for details.

November Begins – Things To Do Over the Week Ahead Along the Great South Bay

Posted on October 30, 2025

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As October Wanes: Things That are Happening at Month’s End

Posted on October 23, 2025

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