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Before Fire Island, on one hazy 1960s summer, at a Girl Scout Camp on Long Island, a young Meryl Meisler hears whispers of a mystical realm just across the bay. On this island, they say, “fairies ran about naked and lived in little houses with charming names like Shirley’s Temple.” This opening vignette — shared by a now-renowned, longtime photographer of queer New York nightlife — sets the tone for John Dempsey’s ambitious account of Fire Island’s art history.

Books & Authors

John Dempsey’s Fire Island Art: 100 Years

Posted on June 29, 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

Taylor Maxwell Shubert and Neil Douglas Reilly.

Pride Month Cherry Grove Style

Posted on June 23, 2026

“I'm growing spiritually, and now in my 81st year, I've become more understanding of myself and am really enjoying the journey of spirituality. I'm also in AA, and I share my so-called system of growth with others, and I'm having a great time.” — Lynne Milnes

Meet the Cover Artist: Lynne Milnes

Posted on June 19, 2026

Schneps photo

Oakdale

Fire Island and Great South Bay News take home PCLI and NYPA Journalism Award Accolades

Posted on June 17, 2026

The Cherry Grove community gathered at the historic Community House & Theater to unveil and dedicate a new 60-foot Pride flag mast overlooking the Grove at the first meeting of the 2026 season for the Cherry Grove Community Association Inc. (CGCAI) on May 17.

Cherry Grove Raises New Pride Flag Mast at Cherry Grove Historic Community House and Theater

Posted on June 14, 2026

Mid-June is bringing a week full of festivals, live music, Pride celebrations, community gatherings, and outdoor fun. Whether you're spending the weekend by the bay, exploring local art and vendors, or dancing along to live performances, there's no shortage of ways to get out and enjoy the season. Here are some of the events happening around the region from June 12–19.

Fire Island Pines

Heating Up in June: Things to Do on Fire Island and Along the Great South Bay: June 13–19

Posted on June 12, 2026

Our hectic summer schedule has begun. The Arts Project of Cherry Grove (APCG) kicked off the season with its opening-season party, featuring four exceptionally smart and talented contestants who ran for Homecoming Queen: Champagne Bubbles, Ivy Stalls, Violet Tide, and Flagarina.

Cherry Grove Homecoming!

Posted on June 9, 2026

Situated across from the Cherry Grove dock, Top of the Bay Bistro on Fire Island offers stunning views of the Great South Bay — along with an exceptional American Nouveau menu, fabulous cocktails, and live entertainment weekly. This summer, Executive Chef Xavier Alcequiez has taken full rein of the establishment, with former proprietor Ron King remaining behind the scenes and discreetly supporting Alcequiez and the team in any way he can.

Dining

Xavier Alcequiez: Taking the Reins at Top of the Bay Birstro in Cherry Grove

Posted on June 7, 2026

June 5 West Islip Symphony Orchestra Spring Concert (8 p.m.) The West Islip Symphony Orchestra will perform America: A Story in Three Acts, under conductor Paul Little at Beach Street Middle School, 17 Beach St, West Islip, at 8 p.m. The concert will bring together the sounds across America’s history. The concert will include three parts: The Old West, The Big City, and America’s True Voice, each highlighting an influential aspect of America. Joining the orchestra is world-renowned harmonica virtuoso Jiayi He. Tickets are $10 for guests and free for students.

Fire Island Pines

June in Bloom: Where To Go and What To Do this Weekend and the Week Ahead on Fire Island and the Great South Bay Long Island Hamlets

Posted on June 5, 2026

June is Pride Month, and we celebrate it here with reverence. Its roots lie in safe havens such as Fire Island, Provincetown, San Francisco and New York City. Now, villages and hamlets across Long Island, including Babylon, Sayville, and Patchogue, also hold parades, film festivals, and other social gatherings to keep the dialogue going strong. We are not in Kansas anymore.

Spotlight Pride Month: The June 5 edition of Fire Island News

Posted on June 4, 2026

Sunday, June 13 (Noon) Patchogue Pride Dust off those flags, grab your glitter, and put on your best grin as the Patchogue Pride Parade makes its way down Main Street, Patchogue. Starting at noon, the parade will proceed along Route 112 west toward Blue Point. This glitter-filled extravaganza celebrates our fabulous diversity; who wouldn’t want to join in? For details, visit patchoguepride.com.

Happy June: Pride Parades and More Along the South Shore

Posted on June 1, 2026

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