Bay Shore News » Fire Island News & Great South Bay News

From block parties to a waterfront celebration to an art show that attracts thousands, summer is a time to explore everything communities along the Great South Bay have to offer. From Babylon to Patchogue, you’ll want to circle the dates for these summer festivals on your calendar.

A Summer of Fun Festivals: Great South Bay Shines this Summer with Outdoor Block Parties for all Ages

Posted on June 2, 2026

Sunday, May 31 (10 a.m.-1 p.m.) The Sagtikos Manor Historical Society will host The Peony Path Tour at Sagtikos Manor, 677 West Montauk Highway, Bay Shore. Attendees will take a private tour of the Manor’s walled garden and learn the history and horticulture of the Peony, the Sagtikos Peony Project, and other restoration efforts. Cap the day off with a stop at the magnificent peacock fountain and waterlily pool. Light refreshments will be provided. Admission: $20. Tours begin at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. For details and reservations, visit sagtikosmanor.org

Dining

Say So Long to the Month of May, and Hello to June! Things To Do this Weekend and the Week Ahead

Posted on May 28, 2026

From Kismet to Davis Park, the Fire Island business market is looking strong this summer. Vacant storefronts rarely stay vacant for long in our communities, and this season is no exception. We spoke with the owners of several new businesses that will be opening for the first time this season or have recently opened.

Business is Booming: Fire Island’s Newest Stores and Services

Posted on May 27, 2026

In Room 808 at Bay Shore Middle School, Philip M. Carpenter Jr. shaped, influenced, and enriched generations of students for over 36 years, becoming an institution in the Bay Shore community. Carpenter died April 2 at his home in Bay Shore, surrounded by his loved ones. He was 84.

Philip M. Carpenter Jr., beloved educator and philanthropist; dies at 84

Posted on May 25, 2026

Ferry at Alantique

Fire Island Pines

Memorial Day and the Last Week of May: Things To Do Over the Holiday Weekend and the Week that Follows on Fire Island and Along the Great South Bay

Posted on May 22, 2026

Memorial Day is a time when people come together to remember, pay honor to, and show respect for those who served our nation. Find the parade most meaningful to you in our area.

Memorial Day Parades this Weekend on Fire Island and the Great South Bay Communities of Long Island

Posted on May 22, 2026

It may have been a gray, damp Thursday morning, with shops still busy making final touches as Memorial Day Weekend loomed large on Fire Island, but things felt a little warmer as vibrantly colored editions of Fire Island News (FIN) graced with the cover artwork of Margery Gosnell-Qua were loaded off the water taxi and onto wagons, and delivery rounds were made in Fire Island communities multiple communities including Atlatique, Cherry Grove, Davis Park, Fair Harbor, Fire Island Pines Kismet, Ocean Beach, Ocean Bay Park, and Saltaire.

First Fire Island News of 2026 Rolls Off the Presses, and Stocked on Newsstands Ahead of Memorial Day Weekend

Posted on May 21, 2026

Tuesday, May 19 (7-9 p.m.) STAR SPANGLED CONCERT: Honoring our Nation’s 250th Anniversary Enjoy a special evening of music, remembrance, and celebration as we honor America’s 250th Anniversary and pay tribute to U.S. Navy SEALs and all veterans on Tuesday, May 19, as the North Shore Community Band performs against the backdrop of the museum and the legacy it represents. Raffles and lite snacks are available. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., the concert begins at 7 p.m. The LT Michael P. Murphy Navy SEAL Museum is located at 50 West Ave. in West Sayville.

The Week of May Before Memorial Day: Things To Do Before the Big Weekend

Posted on May 15, 2026

Opening Friday, May 1 Awakenings The BAFFA Art Gallery will feature a multi-media exhibit by Women Sharing Art in May. The exhibit includes painting, photography, mosaics, sculpture, fiber arts, and mixed media. “Awakenings explores moments of transformation, discovery, and renewed awareness.” The show can be viewed at the Gallery, Thursdays through Sundays, from Noon to 4:00 p.m. An artists’ reception and awards for students whose work was exhibited at the student art show will take place on May 2 from 1 - 4 PMp.m. The BAFFA Gallery is located in the historic Gillette House at 47 Gillette Avenue in Sayville. This exhibition runs through May 31. The gallery is open Thursday-Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. For further information: www.baffa.org or www.womensharingart.org.

Books & Authors

May Day and More: Things To Do this Weekend and Week Ahead Along Great South Bay Long Island

Posted on April 30, 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

Creek Defender Clean Ups

Fresh Air in April: Things To Do over the Weekend and the Week Ahead Along Great South Bay Long Island

Posted on April 16, 2026

In the heart of Bay Shore’s downtown, a quirky 1970s-era time machine has quietly earned a reputation as one of the town’s favorite dive bars. Hidden in plain sight next to the Boulton Center at 27 W Main Street, The Cortland is a place locals know well; stepping inside feels like entering another era. Vibrant disco lights, wood-paneled walls, and a devoted crowd give the late-night spot its own personality. In 2019, owner Bobby G. completely remodeled the space into its current ‘70s theme, which soon became loved by patrons. When the charming spot closed its doors this past December, two Bay Shore residents felt they had to do something about it.

The Cortland’s New Groove: A Favorite Bay Shore Bar Re-Opens

Posted on April 11, 2026

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