Brightwaters News » Fire Island News & Great South Bay News

aggie Fischer Memorial Cross Bay Swim Friday, July 31 (7 a.m.) Since 1927, the Cross Bay Swim has been the signature athletic event on the Great South Bay, drawing swimmers from across the country to a 5.6- mile course from the Fire Island Lighthouse to Brightwaters. The endurance event starts at 7 a.m., when swimmers begin their journey across the Great South Bay and arrive at Gilbert Park in Brightwaters between 10 and 11 a.m. Cheer on the swimmers as they cross the finish line, or catch the action virtually as @maggies_swim posts in real time on Instagram!

The Last Week of July: Things To Do this Weekend and the Week Ahead Around Fire Island and Along the Great South Bay

Posted on July 25, 2026

The Fire Island Dance Festival returns to Fire Island Pines on July 18 and 19, bringing world-class dance performances to a waterfront stage overlooking the Great South Bay. The annual event combines acclaimed dance performances with the unique setting of Fire Island, drawing audiences together for a weekend of artistry, community, and philanthropy. The festival serves as a fundraiser for Dancers Responding to AIDS, a program of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS that provides support to people affected by HIV/AIDS and other critical health challenges. Leadership and patron ticket packages include cocktails and a DJ party at Whyte Hall. Tickets may be purchased online or in person at the Pines Harbor. Additional information and ticket details are available at https://dradance.org/

Books & Authors

Smoke on the Water: Things To Do on Fire Island and Along the Great South Bay July 18-26

Posted on July 17, 2026

While there is always great excitement and investment in our July 4 Weekend issue of Fire Island News, the fun really begins in the issue that follows. So much so that this issue practically wrote itself. Here you’ll find all the fun pictures, and our community columnists recap all the action. However, this is not just an issue about what was; it's also about all the great things still ahead for the summer of 2026.

The Mid-July Issue of “Fire Island News” Makes its Way to Newsstands this Week

Posted on July 15, 2026

As communities across Long Island and Fire Island prepare to celebrate the Fourth of July, this year’s festivities carry added significance as the nation marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The holiday remains both a celebration of the country’s founding and a recognition of the freedoms at the heart of American life. From parades and picnics to fireworks and concerts, these America 250 events offer residents and visitors a chance to come together and honor the occasion in true summer fashion.

Fire Island Pines

Fireworks and More Fourth of July Fun on Fire Island and South Shore Long Island

Posted on June 28, 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

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

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

Saturday, March 14, Bay Shore Brightwaters St. Patrick's Day Parade Kicking off at 2 p.m. at Saxon Avenue and Main Street, Grand Marshal Denise Gibson will lead the parade down Bay Shore Main Street. Local businesses and restaurants will offer special menu items to celebrate Irish heritage in the community. For details, visit bsbwstpatricksparade.com.

Marching On in March: Many Things To Do This Week Along The Great South Bay

Posted on March 13, 2026

It could be argued that Long Island is a sister of the Emerald Isle, and that may be why we love Saint Patrick's Day so much. Lucky for us, there is at least one St. Patrick's Day parade nearly every weekend through the month of March.

Saint Patrick’s Day Along the Great South Bay and Beyond: Parades in 2026

Posted on March 1, 2026

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

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