Things to Do with Kids on Long Island this Weekend

Fill your weekend with family fun in Nassau and Suffolk counties!

By NYMetroParents Staff September 30, 2023

Enjoy these fun weekend activities with your kids on Long Island. Start planning your weekend now.

More Fun Events

Our Fabulous Variety Show 2nd Annual Guardians Gala!

WHEN: Saturday, Sep. 30
WHERE: LTV Studios, , LTV Studios, LTV Studios

WHAT:

Our Fabulous Variety Show (OFVS) invites you to join them for their 2nd annual Guardians Gala! The event will feature food by Chef Peter Ambrose, DJ and dancing, a silent auction and raffles, and more! This year’s honorees are Danny Ximo and Julie Ann Sigler-Baum, two integral members of the OFVS community who have supported the organization’s mission both on and offstage for many years. The event is open to the whole family.

WANT TO GO? $25-$55

Family Nature Trivia Night FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sep. 30
WHERE: South Fork Natural History Museum (SoFo), South Fork Natural History Museum, 377 Bridgehampton-Sag Harbor Turnpike, Bridgehampton, NY, South Fork Natural History Museum (SoFo), South Fork Natural History Museum (SoFo)

WHAT:

This, the second in the SOFO series of “Family Nature Trivia Nights” will have questions based on the summer calendar programs and summer nature facts based on what’s featured in the museum exhibits. Questions will also include identification of plants, animals, and animal signs.

Program Leaders: Frank Quevedo, SOFO Executive Director and Crystal Possehl-Oakes, SOFO Environmental Outdoor Education Specialist

There will be light refreshments and please bring your own beverage.

WANT TO GO? Free

Circus Vazquez

WHEN: Saturday, Sep. 30
WHERE: Walt Whitman Mall, , Walt Whitman Mall, Walt Whitman Mall

WHAT:

This brand-new high-energy production brings together a magnificent new cast of international circus superstars that will delight audiences of all ages. This awe-inspiring, death-defying, hilarious and affordable live circus experience is unforgettable fun for the entire family. The performers are the heart of the circus and Circus Vazquez features some of the world’s finest. Ringmaster Memo Vazquez, a third-generation performer, presides over the festivities as the amiable host who sometimes even finds himself getting in on the act. Italy’s award-winning clown duo, Fumagalli and Davis, will elicit an abundance of laughs with their distinctive brand of outrageous comedy. The Reyes Brothers, from Chile, deftly demonstrate their fast-paced juggling prowess. Be amazed by the acrobatic artistry of the Legion M Teeterboard Troupe, direct from Mongolia. The incomparable unicycle master Pavel Valla Bertini, will keep audiences on the edge of their seat as he builds up to a gravity-defying 15-wheel vertical cycle. High above the circus ring, trapeze artist Camilla Palma from Chile presents a heart-pounding and breathtaking aerial display. India’s Hasan Ansari showcases his extreme dexterity in the rarely seen Palo Hindu act. The members of Ukraine’s Bingo Troupe bring an exciting mix of lively dance and acrobatic performances. Throughout the show, the live Circus Vazquez Band weaves together a magnificent musical tapestry that accompanies each act. And once the show is over, the audience is able to meet many of the stars who just entertained them.

WANT TO GO? $30-$80

Courtney’s True Blue 5K Run/Walk

WHEN: Saturday, Sep. 30
WHERE: Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Rd, Vanderbilt Museum, Vanderbilt Museum

WHAT:

Courtney’s True Blue 5K Run/WalkSeptember 30, 20238:30AM Start Rain or ShineCourtney Lynn Blakeslee Cush Pavilion, Corey Beach, 1 Corey Ave, Blue Point
BENEFICIARYThe Courtney Lynn Blakeslee Foundation was created to provide financial support to children of parents who either are terminally ill with or passed away from cancer. The proceeds will be used to provide these children with the opportunity to enjoy some of life’s simple pleasures without placing an additional financial strain on parents and caretakers. We hope to bring some joy, laughter, and love into their lives.

WANT TO GO? $25

S’mores For More Sunset Run

WHEN: Saturday, Sep. 30
WHERE: Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Rd, Vanderbilt Museum, Vanderbilt Museum

WHAT:

5PM 4K Start. 4:30PM FREE Kid’s 1/4 Mile Fun Run. Rain or Shine. The Northport running club presents an exciting sunset run to benefit Maggie’s Mission’s Quest to find cures for pediatric cancer. Come out to help keep kids’ campfires burning. Maggie’s Mission is devoted to raising awareness for pediatric cancers, funding cutting-edge research that will improve outcomes for children with cancer around the world, and providing assistance to families and children currently affected.

WANT TO GO? $30

Courtney’s True Blue 5K Run/Walk

WHEN: Saturday, Sep. 30
WHERE: Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Rd, Vanderbilt Museum, Vanderbilt Museum

WHAT:

WANT TO GO? $25

Vin Zorbo Live Like Vin 5K Run/Walk

WHEN: Saturday, Sep. 30
WHERE: Westhampton Beach Village Marina, , Westhampton Beach Village Marina, Westhampton Beach Village Marina

WHAT:

This run honors Vin Zorbo. Vin was an active member of the Knights of Columbus at the Immaculate Conception Church, in Westhampton Beach, New York. His friends were both young and old and he enjoyed the distinction of “Beloved Youth Minister.” Vin was best known throughout the community for his kindness, positive outlook, and endless energy. He was most fondly known as “Uncle Vin” the avid surfer.
The event will bring the community and family together to raise monies to continue to sustain the charitable endeavors Vin supported along with the Prostate Cancer Foundation, and the Eastern Long Island SurfRider Foundation. Rain or shine.

WANT TO GO? $30

Wheatley Farms Harvest Festival, “Fall for All”

WHEN: Saturday, Sep. 30
WHERE: AHRC Nassau, , AHRC Nassau, AHRC Nassau

WHAT:

“Fall for All” is more than just a one-day event. It’s an opportunity to welcome the community to enjoy a carefully curated schedule offering a wide range of activities accessible to all. From sensory-friendly spaces to creative mask making and face painting, every experience has been designed to foster inclusivity and ensure that every visitor can participate and enjoy the festivities.

WANT TO GO? $20; $10 per child

Superheroes for Child Care 5K & Kids Fun Run

WHEN: Saturday, Sep. 30
WHERE: Eisenhower Park FIELD 2, , Eisenhower Park FIELD 2, Eisenhower Park FIELD 2

WHAT:

Superheroes for Child Care 5K& Kids Fun Run. 9:30AM 5K Start. 9AM FREE Kids Fun Run Start. Rain or Shine. Proceeds will go to the Child Care Council of Nassau, Inc. Child Care Council of Nassau, Inc. (CCCN, hereafter) is a private, not-for profit organization that has served the community since 1972. CCCN provides child care counseling and referrals to families, professional development and technical assistance to active and potential providers, and offers services to employers interested in the child care needs of employees and their families. Through research and support of child care friendly public policy and development, CCCN serves as an informational resource and public voice for issues facing Nassau County’s diverse communities.

WANT TO GO? $25

The Wizard of Oz

WHEN: Saturday, Sep. 30
WHERE: John W. Engeman Theater, , John W. Engeman Theater, John W. Engeman Theater

WHAT:

The most beloved tale of all time comes to life on the stage. Dorothy and her three friends trot delightfully and tunefully down that fabled road of yellow brick in The Wizard of Oz. After a tornado whisks her away to the magical land of Oz, Dorothy Gale teams up with a Scarecrow, a Tin Woodsman, and a Cowardly Lion to find the mighty Wizard of Oz, who can send her home. Dorothy learns just how magical friendship can be and how wonderful it can feel to go home again.

WANT TO GO? $20

Fish Hatchery Fall Festival

WHEN: Saturday, Sep. 30
WHERE: Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium, , Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium, Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery & Aquarium

WHAT:

Bring the family out for music, games, live animal encounters, kids fishing, environmental exhibitors, food, and more!

Rain date: October 7

WANT TO GO? $7; $6 Senior; $5 Child; free for members

What’s in Our Water?

Our development on Long Island has led to the rise in varying environmental disruptions. From outdated septic systems to runoff, high levels of nutrients are supplementing algal growth. In our local waters we can see the content of plankton that alone are unseen to the naked eye. In this presentation we will discuss varying algal species, concerns, and mitigation.

Program Leader: Ian Robinson, SOFO Environmental Educator

This program is for adults and teens, ages 14 and older

Program fee will also provide non-members with free admission to the museum on a day of their choice. Advanced reservations are required for all events.

WANT TO GO? $15; $10 Children; Free for members

Crafternoon FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Sep. 30
WHERE: Emma Clark Library, , Emma Clark Library, Emma Clark Library

WHAT:

Stop by Emma Clark Library to create a work of art out of recycled materials! No need to register. For ages 3 – 12 years old (supervision may be needed).

Questions? Email [email protected]

WANT TO GO? Free

Circus Vazquez

WHEN: Saturday, Sep. 30
WHERE: Walt Whitman Mall, , Walt Whitman Mall, Walt Whitman Mall

WHAT:

WANT TO GO? $30-$80

S’mores For More Sunset Run

WHEN: Saturday, Sep. 30
WHERE: Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Rd, Vanderbilt Museum, Vanderbilt Museum

WHAT:

WANT TO GO? $30

Oktoberfest

WHEN: Saturday, Sep. 30
WHERE: Milton L. Burns Park, , Milton L. Burns Park, Milton L. Burns Park

WHAT:

Don your dirndl and lace up your lederhosen for the 2nd Annual Oktoberfest and Reflextions illumination event! Live entertainment, contests, food and beer from local craft breweries. This is a family friendly event that is free to attend. Featuring Live music by The Bratwurst Boys and German Style food from Seaside Grill. Brews being served by local craft breweries. Costume contest and stein holding contests! The park will stay lit until 9 PM.

WANT TO GO? Free admission

29th Annual Massapequa Park Mile

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 1
WHERE: Massapequa Funeral Home Parking Lot, , Massapequa Funeral Home Parking Lot, Massapequa Funeral Home Parking Lot

WHAT:

Sanctioned by USATF-LONG ISLAND and an Individual & Team scoring race in the USATF-LI Grand Prix. Shirts to all mile entrants (while supplies last). Free finish line race photos & videos emailed and online. Text/email live results! Sanctioned by USATF-LONG ISLAND and an Individual & Team scoring race in the USATF-LI Grand Prix.

The Massapequa Road Runners are supporting the Massapequa High School Track Scholarship.

9AM Women; 9:30AM Men; FREE Kids Fun Run after the Men’s Mile

Rain or Shine

WANT TO GO? $20

The 6th Annual Anthony Bocchimuzzo Memorial Scholarship Fund 5K

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 1
WHERE: Suffolk County Police Headquarters, , Suffolk County Police Headquarters, Suffolk County Police Headquarters

WHAT:

The 6th Annual Anthony Bocchimuzzo Memorial Scholarship Fund 5K is a Community Run/Walk in Memory of Anthony Bocchimuzzo. 7:30AM Race Day Registration; 9AM Fun Run; 9:30AM Start. Rain or Shine

The mission of the Anthony Bocchimuzzo Memorial Scholarship is to keep Anthony’s spirit alive by recognizing graduating Longwood High School seniors that represent the many qualities he shared with the Longwood Community.

Water, Bagels & Fruit will be provided. T-Shirts to 5K participants guaranteed if registered by midnight 8/10.

WANT TO GO? $30

MWCABC 25th Annual 5K Run/Walk

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 1
WHERE: Mary Jane Davies Park, , Mary Jane Davies Park, Mary Jane Davies Park

WHAT:

9:30AM Start Rain or Shine

The coalition funds research at nationally recognized research institutions to help improve treatment options for those diagnosed with breast cancer and to increase understanding of how this disease develops. In addition, the coalition offers support and education initiatives including its Outreach Program, which assists women in Manhasset and surrounding communities who have been diagnosed with breast cancer and related diseases.

AMENITIES
T-Shirts
Post Race Refreshments
Raffles!

WANT TO GO? $30

Circus Vazquez

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 1
WHERE: Walt Whitman Mall, , Walt Whitman Mall, Walt Whitman Mall

WHAT:

WANT TO GO? $30-$80

Famous Food Festival “Taste the World”

WHEN: Friday, Oct. 6
WHERE: Tanger Outlets, , Tanger Outlets, Tanger Outlets

WHAT:

Famous Food Festival “Taste the World” Long Island Returns To Tanger Outlets this Columbus Day Weekend. You’ll ‘Taste The World’ with delicious food inspirations from countries represented from all around the world. Featuring Over 60 Food Vendors, be prepared to taste some of the best New York, Tri-State, and Long Island has to offer. Whether it’s the Live Music and seating section, the Beer and Wine Lounge, Cooking Demos, Local Artists Gallery, Alpha Axe Throwing, and Kids Section, there truly is something for everyone. Because Long Island New York deserves a famous festival!

▇ TICKETS ▇

This is an All Ages Family Friendly Experience.,

Online Advance Tickets are:

$8 for One Day Pass

$12 for 2 day Pass *

$18 for 4-day Allstar Pass*

Children 7 and under get in FREE, Ages 8-12 Years: $5

** Tickets will be available for $12 for One Day Passes at the door! **

WANT TO GO? $5-$52

Famous Food Festival “Taste the World” Long Island Returns To Tanger Outlets (Deer Park, NY) this Columbus Day Weekend | October 6th – 9th

WHEN: Friday, Oct. 6
WHERE: Tanger Outlets Deer Park, 152 The Arches Cir., Tanger Outlets Deer Park, Tanger Outlets Deer Park

WHAT:

FAMOUS FOOD FESTIVAL RETURNS THIS COLUMBUS DAY WEEKEND!

Welcome back everyone we invite you to come ‘Taste The World’ with delicious food inspirations from countries represented from all around the world. Featuring Over 60 Food Vendors, be prepared to taste some of the best New York, Tri-State, and Long Island has to offer.

Whether it’s the Live Music and seating section, our Beer and Wine Lounge, Cooking Demos, Local Artists Gallery, Alpha Axe Throwing, and Kids Section, there truly is something for everyone. Because Long Island New York deserves a famous festival!

This all-ages fun for the whole family event is only $8 (Online) to attend each day and discounted for multiple day entry! See all the ticketing options 1, 2, or all 4 days! Tickets at the Door (1 day) Will be available that day for $12 per person.

(*Limited Availability)

Event Times

October 6th (Friday) : 1pm – 8pm

October 7th (Saturday) : 11am – 8pm

October 8th (Sunday) : 11am – 8pm

October 9th (Columbus Day Monday) : 11am – 8pm

What should you expect to see at Famous Food Festival?

SPECIAL FEATURES

+ 60+ Food Vendors

+ Tastes from Around the World!

+ Live Music All Day (follow our Social for Band Announcements!)

+ NEW** Beer and Wine Garden

+ Virtual Reality

+ Rock Climbing

+ Real Axe Throwing**

+ Mini Golf Course

+ Haunted House!

+ The Art Bazaar (@Colored.Colors)

+ Kids Section with Face Painting, Henna, Stuffed Animals,

+ Red Carpet Photo Booth Opportunities with Fun Backdrops

+ Psychic readings!

+ 360 Photo Booth

+SO MANY NEW VENDORS!! (Follow our IG/FB to see Daily Updates)

+DID WE MENTION AWESOME NEW BANDS?!

LOCATION

Tanger Outlets, Deer Park (In the South East Parking Lot)

152 The Arches Cir

Deer Park, New York 11729

TICKETS

This is an All Ages Family Friendly Experience.

Online Advance Tickets are:

$8 for One Day Pass

$12 for 2 day Pass *

$18 for 4-day Allstar Pass*

Children 7 and under get in FREE, Ages 8-12 Years: $5

** Tickets will be available for $12 for One Day Passes at the door! **

WANT TO GO? $5, $8, $52

Spooky Fest

WHEN: Friday, Oct. 6
WHERE: CSTL, , CSTL, CSTL

WHAT:

This updated Halloween adventure is perfect for families who don’t want to be scared…. or maybe just a little.

Non Spooky Attractions include: Enchanted Forest Walk for young children features friendly displays and characters, such as cute dinosaurs, witches, aliens,. Cinderella and more! Kids arts and crafts area. Face Painting. Fortune telling. Halloween DJ.

All Attractions package include: Everything the Non-Scary ticket has plus the Spooky Woods, The Spooky Woods will have Zombie Robotic Dinosaurs and other Zombie scenes but no one will jump out to scare you. This Attraction is a little scary, recommended for children 7-12 yrs. Old.

WANT TO GO? $25-$27

Poetry in Performance: Walking With Whitman, hosted by Writer-in-Residence George Wallace

WHEN: Friday, Oct. 6
WHERE: Walt Whitman Birthplace, , Walt Whitman Birthplace, Walt Whitman Birthplace

WHAT:

Walt Whitman Birthplace Association (WWBA) presents Poetry in Performance: Walking With Whitman, hosted by Writer-in-Residence George Wallace.

The signature series, now in its 13th season, continues to bring the most intriguing figures in contemporary literature on the national scene paired with local poets on the Walt Whitman Stage.

WANT TO GO?

7th Annual 5K 4 Fighters Run/Walk

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 7
WHERE: Shorefront Park, , Shorefront Park, Shorefront Park

WHAT:

A race to support our veterans
#5K4Fighters
5K 4 Fighters is a fun event to recognize, honor, and show our support to all the veterans who fought and are still fighting for our freedom.
All veterans and their families know about sacrifice and patriotism and we encourage everyone to join us in celebrating and supporting them!
All proceeds of this event will go to the Village of Patchogue’s Veterans groups.

WANT TO GO? $30

‘Morning at the Museum’ for Families With Special Needs FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 7
WHERE: Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Rd, Vanderbilt Museum, Vanderbilt Museum

WHAT:

The Vanderbilt Museum will present Morning at the Museum, its annual event exclusively for people with special needs and their families, on Saturday, October 7, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. Admission is free, but advance registration is required.

Spend the morning exploring the collections, grounds, gardens, architecture, and the Reichert Planetarium’s “Open Sky.” Activities include a preserved specimen touch table and crafts.

Admission is free, but advance registration is required.

WANT TO GO? Free

Circus Vazquez

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 7
WHERE: Walt Whitman Mall, , Walt Whitman Mall, Walt Whitman Mall

WHAT:

WANT TO GO? $30-$80

Looking for more events in your area? Search our comprehensive events calendar.

Looking to plan an awesome weekend on Long Island packed with fun for the whole family? Whether you are planning a day trip in close to the New York metro area or are looking for kid-friendly fun that's close to home, we've got you covered! There’s a lot of kid-friendly family fun planned for this weekend right here in Nassau and Suffolk counties. From storytimes and concerts to museum exhibits, crafts activities, seasonal events, and more, you'll find something to do that keeps the whole family having fun! Plan your weekend on Long Island with our guide that highlights the best family-friendly (vritual and in-person) events happening throughout Long Island. And check out our Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Westchester, and Rockland weekend roundups for more fun inspiration!

Looking for a new doctor, a new school, an after-school program, or special needs services? Find the resources your family needs.