Patchogue 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

Gov’t Mule – Live Photo 2026

Warren Haynes with Gov’t Mule Will Be Kicking in at Your Stall at The Great South Bay Music Festival

Posted on July 18, 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

Located inside what had been Burlington Coat Factory in downtown Patchogue until 2021, NYU Langone is bringing this space back to life as an ambulatory care center, with a ribbon-cutting on July 13. This new location will expand access to services by providing an outpatient surgical center for the Suffolk County community.

NYU Langone Health Opens an Ambulatory Care Center in Downtown Patchogue

Posted on July 15, 2026

Long Island’s longest-running music event returns as the 18th annual Great South Bay Music Festival runs from July 23 to July 26 at Shorefront Park in Patchogue. The four-day celebration of Long Island's arts and culture includes family fun and activities for all ages.

The Great South Bay Music Festival Makes Waves in 2026 with “Best Lineup Yet”

Posted on July 9, 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

Town of Babylon Summer Concert Friday, June 26 (8 p.m.) The Blend The Town of Babylon is bringing the music as they host an eclectic summer concert series at the Babylon Village Gazebo, 244 West Main St. Babylon, at 8 p.m. Bring your dancing shoes and get ready to groove to the sounds of the band, The Blend. This event is FREE to attend. For more information, visit townofbabylonny.gov

June to July: What TO Do Ahead of July 4th Weekend

Posted on June 26, 2026

The subject of the Epstein files speaks for itself, but less has been said about their connection to Fire Island, where several local communities were collectively mentioned dozens of times in those sordid files. While the information in the files does not imply evidence of crimes committed locally, it does show that Jeffrey Epstein's associates communicated with the infamous pedophile while visiting our island, as well as through various incidental mentions.

Fire Island and the Epstein Files: What Connections are Revealed?

Posted on June 22, 2026

Schneps photo

Oakdale

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

Posted on June 17, 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

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, 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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