Dining News » Fire Island News & Great South Bay News

Rising from the ashes—literally—Whalehouse Point Restaurant and Bar on Fire Island has been resurrected after a fire destroyed the building back in September 2019. “Reconstruction has been an uphill battle,” said John Tafe, director of operations, as the establishment is situated on federal land on Fire Island’s National Seashore.

Dining

Whalehouse Point: A Star is Reborn on Fire Island’s National Seashore

Posted on April 27, 2026

Saturday, April 25 (9-11 a.m.) Creek Defender Community Clean-Up with Save The Great South Bay Swan River & Mud Creek, East Patchogue: Caring for the Great South Bay begins on the land. Improve the quality of the water entering our bay by removing litter, debris, and invasive species through a group volunteer effort! Everyone is welcome, regardless of experience or age, to participate. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Clean-up gear will be provided. Meet at Pine Neck Boat Launch. Please wear eye protection, long sleeves, and pants; sturdy, water-resistant boots are recommended.

End of April, Come What May: Things To Do this Weekend and the Week Ahead

Posted on April 23, 2026

The March 2026 edition of Great South Bay News will be on newsstands before the weekend, just as the vernal equinox arrives. What better time to catch up on some worthwhile reading?

Dining

Great South Bay News in Springtime

Posted on March 18, 2026

Friday, March 6 Women’s Comedy Mash-Up Benefit Show Join the Islip Arts Council for a night of women-led comedy to benefit the arts in our community. Held at Islip Arts Council Gallery, 1701 Sunrise Highway, Bay Shore, at 7 p.m., enjoy fiercely funny ladies in a night of stand-up and big laughs. Lineup curated by Karen Anderson, hosted by Brian Cutaia. Tickets in advance: $22; at the door: $25. For more details, visit isliparts.org.

Movies, Music, and a Little March Mischief: Things To Do Along the Great South Bay This Week

Posted on March 6, 2026

The Lunar New Year (also called Chinese New Year) is upon us and generally falls between January 21 and February 20. This year, it falls on February 17. It is celebrated throughout China, Taiwan, North and South Korea, Singapore, Japan, the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam. The holiday honors ancestors and deities, encourages letting go of negative energy, and emphasizes connecting with family and friends. It is a prominent celebration in vibrant Chinatowns and Asian communities across the country, featuring parades and other festive activities. This year marks the Year of the Horse, symbolizing hard work, bravery, and resilience—values universal to all. Food plays a significant role in Lunar New Year celebrations, with various culinary traditions across regions each assigning specific meanings to different dishes. Long Island offers many restaurants to enjoy these celebrations and discover new favorites.

Dining

Culinary Delights for the Lunar New Year 2026: Year of the Horse

Posted on February 19, 2026

January brings new beginnings, shedding habits that don’t serve us and starting fresh—like committing to eat healthier, one small step many people take. As someone passionate about food, my main focus is on choosing healthier options and making sustainable choices that I can maintain—at least for a while. The South Shore of Long Island boasts several top-quality health food markets and grocery stores that can make this easier. From fully prepared meals to the ingredients needed to make them, it’s a perfect time to visit some of our local stores and get inspired for the new year.

Dining

Resolving to Eat Healthy in 2026

Posted on January 25, 2026

Wednesday, January 21 “A Few Good Men”: The Celebrating Rob Reiner Series A powerful courtroom drama driven by sharp dialogue and unforgettable performances, A Few Good Men stands as one of Rob Reiner’s most commanding films. In conjunction with the series, Celebrating Rob Reiner’s Life in Cinema, The Boulton Center for the Performing Arts, 37 West Main Street in Bay Shore, intends to carry on Reiner’s legacy and talent. Intense, intelligent, and endlessly quotable, attend the viewing of the classic film at 7 p.m. and gain a deeper understanding of a cornerstone of Rob Reiner’s cinematic legacy. For tickets and more details, visit boultoncenter.org.

Books & Authors

Being Chill in January: Things to Do This Coming Weekend, and the Week Ahead Along the Great South Bay

Posted on January 15, 2026

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Dining

RUMBA Partied for a Purpose in Patchogue to Help Fellow Islanders in Jamaica

Posted on December 30, 2025

Christmas, Chanukah, and New Year’s conjure images of a cozy holiday dinner at home with family and friends. Whether you want to cook the meal from scratch or have gourmet prepared options to help that holiday meal along, we’re blessed with an abundance of establishments in our area that can help you! From specialty markets to grocery stores and even a deli, we have you covered to be in the company of good eats to round out 2025.

Dining

The Home Holiday Dinner: Area Hotspots to Help Grace Your Family Meal

Posted on December 20, 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

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