Long Island events and things to do this weekend
If you're looking for things to do on Long Island, here are spots to explore and events to attend during weekends in March and April.
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Credit: Linda Rosier
Hicks Nurseries' Flower and Garden Show
The 20,000-square-foot greenhouse has eight gardens designed under this year’s theme, "Spring is in the Air." Kids can participate in a scavenger hunt to search for items in each garden. Those who are looking to get a jump on their spring gardening can pick up some plants for sale.
When Through March 30
Cost Free
Credit: Elizabeth Sagarin
'Frozen'
See Elsa, Anna and Olaf in a magical production of the Disney film on stage. Audience members will be taken on an adventure as one sister tries to find her voice and the other tries to use her powers.
When Through April 13
Cost $35-$104.50
Credit: Round Room Live
'Sesame Street Live, Say Hello!'
Meet all your "Sesame Street Live" friends when Elmo, Abby Cadabby and Cookie Monster take the stage for an afternoon of fun. Participants will get a chance to play alongside their favorite friends during a game of hide-and-seek. After the show, get up close and personal to meet all the characters featured in the show, including Elmo’s puppy, Tango.
When 6 p.m.
Cost Tickets range $56-$106
Credit: Craig Ruttle
Opening weekend at Adventureland
Spring ushers in the opening of the Route 110 amusement park. Get some thrills on the Ferris wheel, bumper cars, the Fireball, Rattlesnake and Turbulence roller coasters, midway games for prizes, including High Striker and Whack-A-Mole, and long-range basketball shooting.
When 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; weekends and holidays through Memorial Day weekend
Cost Admission starts at $49.50 ages 2-24; $39.50 for adults; free younger than 2
Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
Luck O' the Irish 5K Run
Put on your lucky T-shirt and head out for a 5K run or walk around a state park. Bring ID because all participants ages 21 and older can enjoy a free beer. A free kiddie dash starts at 8:30 a.m., rain or shine. Refreshments by All Round Foods and Waterlook Sparking Water will be available.
When 9 a.m. start; 8:30 a.m. kiddie dash
Cost $35 registration fee
Credit: The Heckscher Museum of Art
'In Her Words: Letters of Pride' exhibit
Take a private, tour of the exhibit with a curator to see the art of self-expression through letter writing and collage, inspired by the current exhibit at the museum: “Embracing the Parallax: Berenice Abbott and Elizabeth McCausland." Guests can get a glimpse of past and present LGBTQIA+ relationships through the lens of photographer Abbott and art critic McCausland’s partnership. The event ends with a hands-on collage workshop.
When 6:30 to 9 p.m.
Cost Free, tickets required
Credit: New York Solar Faire
New York Solar Faire
This year’s outdoor "faire" celebrates the spring equinox with more than 100 vendors. Highlights include live music and dance performances along with permanent jewelry, vintage clothing, one-of-a-kind items, crystals and more for sale. Food trucks offer vegan options from the Good Food Truck and Groovy Smoothie along with Lexi’s Lemonade and the Long Island Wing King. There will also be a puppy adoption booth along with tattoo and henna artists.
When Noon to 4 p.m., rain or shine
Cost Free
Credit: Debra Klipstein/Ballet Long Island
Ballet Long Island presents 'Cinderella'
The classic fairy tale takes viewers along on a girl’s journey to becoming a princess with the help of her fairy godmother.
When 1 p.m.
Cost $25; $15 children younger than 12
Credit: Jennifer A. Uihlein
Glen Cove St. Patrick's Day parade
The parade begins at Finley Middle School at Forest Avenue and travels south of Dosoris Lane. It then follows Brewster Street to School Street. From there it moves into Glen Street ending at St. Patrick’s Church on Glen Street, where an after-parade party with a full corned beef dinner or pasta takes place. Parking is available at Glen Cove’s downtown municipal parking garages and St. Patrick’s parish lot with shuttle buses available.
When Kickoff at 1 p.m., rain or shine; after-parade party: 2:30 to 6 p.m.
Cost Free admission for parade; $25 for the after-parade party
Credit: Daniel Goodrich
'Hyprov: Improv Under Hypnosis'
The live show teams up comedian Colin Mochrie ("Whose Line Is It, Anyway?") and hypnotist Asad Mecci focusing on their specialties: improv with hypnosis. Skeptics and believers alike are promised some laughs as volunteers from the audience get the chance to get into the act.
When 7 p.m.
Cost Tickets range $50-$80
Credit: Elizabeth Sagarin
St. Patrick's Day parade in Patchogue
Bring a chair and line the streets to see marchers on Route 112 and East Main Street for the annual St. Patrick's Day parade. Marchers will continue west on Main Street and conclude at West Avenue. The lineup includes pipe bands, floats, Irish step dancers, local scouts, twirlers and fire trucks.
When Kick off at 12:30 p.m., rain or shine
Cost Free
Credit: Newsday/Candice Ruud
Neil Diamond tribute
Performer Neil Forever pays homage to music icon and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Neil Diamond, performing the singer's greatest hits accompanied by a 14-piece ensemble. Listen for classics including, “Cherry, Cherry,” “Coming to America” and “Sweet Caroline."
When 8 p.m.
Cost Tickets start at $38.75
Credit: Howard Schnapp
Long Island Nets
Get ready for a weekend of basketball when the Long Island Nets take on the Cleveland Charge at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. The NBA G league affiliate of the Brooklyn Nets takes the court with head coach Mfon Udofia.
When 7 p.m.
Cost Tickets start at $28.75
Credit: Ed Betz
'12 Angry Men'
This live drama courtroom production focuses on 12 members of a jury deciding the fate of a teenage boy accused of murdering his father. Each performance will be followed by a Q&A with judges and other members of the judicial system.
When 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday
Cost Starting at $25
Credit: Johnny Milano
Oyster Bay Polar Plunge
You’ll be freezin’ for a reason at the plunge in the chilly waters of the Atlantic, which benefits Special Olympics New York. The event starts with a fun fest for plungers featuring music and vendors selling merchandise. Registration beings at 9 a.m. and participants who raise $150 receive a commemorative sweatshirt.
When 11 a.m.
Cost $25 per plunger
Credit: AllIslandAerial.com / Kevin P. Coughlin
Katt Williams at UBS Arena
The winner of a Primetime Emmy-award for his work on “Atlanta,” the stand-up comedian and award-winning actor continues his “Heaven on Earth” tour at the UBS Arena at Belmont Park.
When 8 p.m.
Cost Tickets start at $75.85; parking fee starts at $44
Credit: Danielle Silverman
Supershow Long Island
The show floor features more than 20 vendors selling comic books, action figures, collectibles, retro games and more. Special guests include inker artist Keith Williams, artist James Rodriguez, writer Dennis Knight and members of Sheek Visual Arts. Admission includes 10 power cards to play in the arcade.
When 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cost $17.89
Credit: Morgan Campbell
Lindenhurst St. Patrick's Day Parade
The annual celebration steps off from Fireman’s Park and heads west on Hartford Street to Wellwood Avenue, ending at the middle school. The parade will include marchers, pipe bands and parade participants who will pass the reviewing stand on the northeast side of the intersection of Wellwood and Hoffman avenues.
When Noon; rain date; March 30
Cost Free
Credit: Daniel Goodrich
Gaelic Storm
Calling itself a “true working-man’s band,” this Irish rock band led by frontman Patrick Murphy stays true to its Celtic traditions. The Billboard World Chart toppers, who performed in the film "Titanic," welcomes the Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band as special guest.
When 8 p.m.
Cost Tickets start at $46
Credit: Randee Daddona
Dune Day
Help stabilize beach dunes by planting dune grass. Hands-on volunteers are needed to work alongside town officials. No early registration is required, just show up dressed appropriately and dig in and plant.
When 10 a.m.; rain or shine
Cost Free
Credit: Ballet Long Island/Debra Klipstein
Princess Tea Party
Kids are invited to dress up in their favorite princess outfit for a themed tea party. The event begins with a stage performance featuring princesses followed by a photo op after the ballet performance. Tea, lemonade, cupcakes and cookies will be served in the Princess Tea Room complete with royal decorations. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
When 1 p.m. April 5
Cost $25 per person
Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
Patchogue Family YMCA 5K
Form a team with friends and family or do the 5K walk or run solo at Shorefront Park. After the race stick around for awards, prizes, refreshments and giveaways. Proceeds benefit the YMCA Community Food Distribution Program.
When 9 a.m. April 5
Cost $30 in advance, $35 day of
Credit: Jack Roman Photography
'Branching Out'
This live theatrical production geared toward neurodiverse audiences features kid-friendly music and activities. Children are invited to be part of the action and embrace adventure while exploring the four seasons. Participation is optional.
When 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. April 5-6
Cost $20
Credit: Debbie Egan-Chin
All Kids Fair
The fair features more than 80 vendors with fun activities including a puppy party, face painting, nature crafts, karate lessons and meet and greets with a princess or spider hero. A dental area will focus on smiles and oral health.
When 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Cost $5 in advance, $10 at the door
Credit: Ed Betz
Shining Star
Shining Star: Earth Wind Fire tribute band performs songs made famous by the Grammy-award winning band. The dance floor will be open and the theater filled with the iconic band's chartbusters including “September,” “Let’s Groove” and “Boogie Wonderland.”
When 7 p.m.
Cost Tickets range $29-$49
Credit: Getty Images/R. Diamond
The Wallflowers
The Grammy-award winning rock band featuring lead singer Jakob Dylan performs a mix of folk and alt rock with songs from their most recent album, “Exit Wounds.” The opening act is acoustic musician Jackson Melnick.
When 8 p.m.
Cost Tickets start at $38.75
Credit: Newsday/John Paraskevas
'Escape to Margaritaville'
The musical stage comedy production features classic hits by Jimmy Buffett including “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” “It’s Five O-clock Somewhere,” “Margaritaville” and more.
When 7:30 p.m. April 11 and 8 p.m. April 12
Cost Tickets start at $40
Credit: Ed Betz
Yellow Brick Road
You’ll have to look twice as Gerald Brann takes the stage in a full-on tribute to rock star Elton John. Resembling John, you’ll also be treated to array of costumes along with songs performed by Brann and the band Yellow Brook Road. Hits concertgoers will hear include “Rocket Man,’ “Candle in the Wind” and “Your Song.”
When 4 and 8 p.m.
Cost Tickets start at $65
Credit: Anthony Lanzilote
Spring Dog Festival
Leashed dogs are allowed in designated areas in the historic gardens that are usually off limits to pets during the Spring Dog Festival. Attendees will find a variety of local dog-related vendors selling products and services for pups. All activities are included with general admission to the gardens.
When 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cost $18, $8 ages 7-17
Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto/artisteer
Easter Egg Hunt
Dress in your holiday finest and join in on a family-friendly Easter egg hunt for kids 11 and older. Families can take photos with the Easter Bunny at the gazebo. All are invited to bring a basket or bag to collect eggs.
When 11 a.m. April 12, arrive by 10:45 a.m.; rain date: 2 p.m. April 13, arrive by 1:45 p.m.
Cost Free
Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
The Bunny Trail 5K
Run, walk or hop this Bunny Trail 5K where you’re also invited to wear bunny ears. The event meanders around the trails of the park and ends with snacks and treats from All Round foods. A free kiddie run kicks things off at 9 a.m.
When 9:30 a.m.
Cost $38.98
Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
Earth Day 5K
Runners or walkers are invited to celebrate Mother Earth by participating in a 5K around Eisenhower Park. The run takes participants through tree lined-bike trails. Post-race runners can enjoy treats from All Round Foods. The day kicks off with a free kiddie dash at 8:30 a.m.
When 9 a.m.
Cost $38.98
Credit: Newsday/Candice Ruud
'Cold Beer on a Saturday Night'
Think summer and enjoy the beachy country sounds of Jimmy Buffet, Kenny Chesney and Zac Brown. Dance and sing along as Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Beach Band cover popular country tunes.
When 8 p.m.
Cost Tickets start at $20
Credit: Brittainy Newman
Dinosaur egg hunt
An exhibit featuring robotic and skeletal life-size dinosaurs explores topic such as dino traits and how they adapted to different environments, and offers hands-on interactive activities. There will also be live animals including snakes, emus and turtles in natural settings and kids can participate in a dino dig.
When Nature festival and dino egg hunt: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 18-19
Cost $15, $12 for ages 1-13
Credit: Joseph D. Sullivan
Easter Bunny at The Shoppes
Dress in your spring finest for a photo with the Easter Bunny. Enjoy the bounce house ($5 per token) or take a ride on the carousel ($5 per token). Guests can bring non-perishable food items to help local families in need.
When 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Cost Free
Credit: Daniel De Mato
Long Island Ducks
The home team is back and takes on the Lancaster Stormers for a full weekend of baseball. Beginning Friday they’ll also host a T-shirt giveaway, continuing Saturday with a fireworks spectacular, and on Sunday, there will be family-friendly activities including a pregame catch on the field and the chance for kids can run around the bases postgame.
When 6:35 p.m. April 25 and26 and 1:35 p.m. April 27
Cost Tickets start at $17
Credit: The Washington Post via Getty Images/The Washington Post
Sarah Silverman
The Emmy award-winning comedian, actress and former writer for NBC’s “Saturday Night Live” comes to Huntington on her “Postmortem” tour.
When 7 p.m.
Cost Tickets start at $66
Credit: Getty Images/Artur Didyk
Salsa Fest
Listen for Afro-Cuban beats at a festival featuring the top names in salsa. Headliners include Peruvian singer Josimar y Su Yambú and former Grupo Niche member Javier Vásquez along with performers from Cuba and Venezuela. Dancing is encouraged.
When 8 p.m.
Cost Tickets start at $92.40
Credit: Daniel Goodrich
Rascals 60th Anniversary
The legendary '60s rock band pulls into town sparking notes of nostalgia. The Rock and Roll and Grammy Hall of Famers perform with two of their founding members, Felix Cavaliere and Gene Cornish. Sing along to hits including “Groovin,” “People Got to Be Free” and “Good Lovin’.”
When 8 p.m.
Cost Tickets start at $63
Credit: Newsday/Steven Sunshine
Arbor Day Festival
The Arbor Day Festival focuses on the value of trees and environmental conservation. Activities include a tree seedling giveaway, meeting Smokey the Bear, planting trees and “Ask the Experts” sessions during plant clinics. There will be face painting, a blowup slide, jugglers, a scavenger hunt and more.
When 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cost $30 per carload
Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
EJ Autism 4-Mile Run
Stroll or run a jigsaw 4-mile run through the local neighborhood with a scenic start and finish on the Great South Bay. Also featured is the John McGorry Irish Mile (1.27). Race awards will be presented in all age groups with a post-race party with raffles at Shandon Court (115 E. Main St., East Islip). A kiddie fun run for ages 14 and younger steps off at 9 a.m. at Marina Park.
When 9:30 a.m.
Cost $33.80; $5 for kiddie run
Credit: Getty Images/Anna Moneymaker
Yo-Yo Ma
Join cellist Yo-Yo Ma for an afternoon of conversation and music. The event will be moderated by "PBS News Hour" correspondent Jeffrey Brown. Listen to personal stories along with musical performances.
When 3 p.m.
Cost Tickets start at $35
