Before the Big Weekend: Things to Do on South Shore Long Island Prior to Memorial Day Weekend

Front view of a yellow biplane under a cloudy sky
The Bayport Aerodrome Society will host its Vintage Wings and Wheels event on May 18th.
Photo by Getty Images.

Who said there is nothing to do before Memorial Day Weekend? 

Saturday, May 17
Pleinathon: All-Day Plein Air Painting Marathon
Join the Islip Arts Council for the third annual Pleinathon, an all-day plein air painting marathon at Bayard Cutting Arboretum State Park, Great River, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Grab your favorite brushes, paint, and other materials as attendees paint the beautiful landscapes of the arboretum. Pick your favorite spot and connect with nature! Cost: $25. For details and to register, visit isliparts.org.

Saturday, May 17
Babylon Village Arts Council 17th Annual Outdoor Art Exhibition
The Babylon Village Arts Council invites you to a day filled with artistic talent at Argyle Lake, West Main Street, Babylon Village, from 10 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Relax and enjoy the view of Argyle Lake while absorbing fabulous artwork from artists throughout Long Island! This event is FREE to attend. For more information, visit babylonvillagearts.org.

Saturday, May 17
Town of Babylon Italian Food Festival
The Town of Babylon will host the annual Italian Food Festival on the Great Lawn at Town Hall, 200 Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, from noon to 5 p.m. Learn about Babylon’s Italian history, bring a pasta or sauce donation, and enjoy delicious foods! Additional parking and free shuttle bus service is available at at Lindenhurst Train Station.

Sunday, May 18
Vintage Wings and Wheels
The Bayport Aerodrome Society will host the annual Vintage Wings and Wheels Car Show at Bayport Aerodrome, 60 Vitamin Drive, Bayport, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Vehicle registration at 9 a.m., $25 entry. A $10 lunch will be available for purchase, free to drivers. Experience an afternoon viewing unique vintage cars and planes, or enter the raffle to win a biplane ride! Contact Jimmy Pancake at (516) 381-4408 for more information.

Sunday, May 18
Mini-Marine Biologist
Looking for a unique way to spend time with your preschooler? Join the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County for a Mini-Marine Biologist workshop at the Sport Fishing Education Center, Cedar Beach Marina, Babylon, from 10-11:30 a.m. This very special program includes hands-on time with live marine animals, beach activities and a craft! This is a great way to introduce your child to marine ecology! Cost:$25/child and 1 adult; Each additional adult is $5. For more information and reservations, visit seaexplorersmarinecamp.com.

Sunday, May 18

Toy Story Character Dinner
Enjoy an unforgettable dinner with a Toy Story twist at Lily’s in Babylon, 345 Deer Park Avenue, Babylon, from 5-7 p.m. Your favorite Toy Story characters come to life; indulge in a delicious meal, meet & greet with characters, giveaways, crafts, and more! For reservations, visit lilyflanaganspub.com.

Sunday, May 18
Massive Chinese Auction & Spaghetti Lunch
The Angels of Long Island & Hagerman Fire Department are teaming up to host a massive Chinese auction and spaghetti lunch at 510 Oakdale Avenue, East Patchogue, from noon to 4 p.m. Tickets will be pulled at 4:30 p.m. Admission & lunch: $15/Adults, $5/Children under 12.

Tuesday, May 20
Soul Food Cooking Demonstration
Join Chef Cheryl Grigg of Chara’s Kitchen and Catering for a night of delicious soul food classics at the Islip Public Library, 71 Monell Avenue, Islip, from 6:30-8 p.m. For reservations and more information, visit isliplibrary.org.

Baseball history lives in Babylon.

Wednesday, May 21
History of the Cuban Giants, First African American Professional Baseball Club

Join Babylon Town Historian Mary Cascone at the Bay Shore-Brightwaters Library, 1 South Country Road, Brightwaters, from 6-7:30 p.m. for an interesting history lecture. Registration and more information can be found at bsbwlibrary.org.

Wednesday, May 21
Surf and Soul: Yoga and Live Music
Enjoy a laid-back, beach-inspired yoga experience at The Welcome Mat Yoga and Wellness Inc., 560 Main Street, Suite 3, Islip, from 6:30-8 p.m. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a beginner, let the infectious vibe lift your spirit and synchronize your breath. This unique and soulful experience has limited spots. Cost: $40. For more information, visit thewelcomematyoga.com.

Wednesday, May 21
Tots Night Out
A Time for Kids leads an interactive and educational family program for kids ages 18 months to 5 years, filled with singing, dancing, stories and a craft at the Bay Shore-Brightwaters Library, 1 South Country Road, Brightwaters from 6:30-7:15 p.m. For details and to register, visit bsbwlibrary.org.

Friday, May 23
Youth Night
The West Islip Church of Christ will host Youth Night at 600 Montauk Highway, West Islip from 5-8 p.m. This monthly night for the youth in the community will feature board games, movies, cooking/baking, video games, karaoke and more! Cost: $5 per student, dinner is included. Parents are encouraged to stay and help supervise activities. For more information, visit westislipchurch.org.

 

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