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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

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

Bay Shore’s high-octane hamlet needs to be fueled, and it is no surprise that coffee cafés keep sprouting up with no end in sight. However, no two are the same; each has its own distinct vibe, and all are wonderful in their own way. Enjoy our mini-guide!

Dining

The Bean Business in Bay Shore

Posted on December 10, 2025

Tiny Raccoon Books in Sayville is preparing to celebrate the holiday season with its third annual Jolabokaflod, a community event centered around books, chocolate, and cozy winter traditions.

Books & Authors

Tiny Raccoon Books Prepares for its Third Annual Jolabokaflod Celebration in Sayville

Posted on December 9, 2025

Downtown Islip’s Harp & Hound remains closed after a damaging fire last month, which is a severe loss for the local business during the holiday season. It has affected the family-owned Irish-American pub's revenue, resulted in lost wages for staff, and deprived patrons of a popular gathering spot.

Dining

Great South Bay Community Comes Together to Support Downtown Islip’s Harp & Hound After Fire

Posted on December 8, 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

If you’ve ever dreamed of attending a haunted mansion party, the Seatuck Environmental Association Bats & Brews Annual Fundraiser at the Historic Scully Estate is the ultimate annual event to put on your radar. Each October, the community eagerly anticipates this notorious evening brimming with never-ending servings of beer, fresh food from local restaurants, live music, and a fascinating lecture that ties it all together. Greeted by the glow of string lights and the faint hum of excitement in the autumn air, guests trickle in for a night of excitement. Bats & Brews is not only a celebration but also a statement of support for local conservation efforts, with enthusiasm for the cause radiating from every corner of the impressive mansion.

Dining

A “Brew-tiful” Night in Islip: Seatuck Environmental Association’s Bats & Brews Benefit Returns

Posted on November 25, 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

Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks for blessings, but sometimes it’s a blessing to not have to deal with pots, pans, and the cleanup afterwards. The good news is there’s an abundant selection of places to restaurants to enjoy Thanksgiving Day along the Great South Bay. Here is a guide to some of our favorites.

Dining

Dinner Out on Thanksgiving: Local Restaurants Open and Ready to Serve

Posted on November 17, 2025

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