🍂 Long Island’s Not-So-Secret Weekend: October 25–26, 2025

By Dean Miller – Local Expert, Real Estate Strategist & Long Island’s Only A.I. Certified Agent

If fall were a sport, Long Island would be in the playoffs right now.

Next weekend, October 25th and 26th, the Island’s going all-in on crisp air, crunchy leaves, and events that somehow all involve either cider, pumpkins, or someone in a scarecrow costume named “Steve.” Whether you’ve got toddlers in Halloween pajamas or teenagers who pretend they’re too cool for family outings (but still steal your kettle corn), there’s something happening nearby that’s totally worth getting out of the house for.

Let’s start with the Merrick Street Fair, happening both Saturday and Sunday on Merrick Avenue. This isn’t your average local fair — it’s an unofficial gathering of everyone you haven't seen since the PTA fundraiser. You'll find handmade crafts, local food vendors, and more bounce houses than your chiropractor would recommend. Bring cash, comfy shoes, and expect to leave with something you didn’t plan to buy (probably cinnamon-scented).

Now if your kids have outgrown bounce houses and want something a little more thrilling, head to Haunted Hikes at the Garden City Bird Sanctuary on Saturday night. This event is spooky enough to be fun, but not terrifying — which makes it perfect for that magical parenting balance of “fun scare” and “no nightmares.” Flashlights are recommended, and so is a sense of adventure (plus maybe a candy bribe if your youngest backs out halfway through).

Looking for that classic Instagram-worthy fall day? White Post Farms Fall Festival in Melville is the gold standard. Open both days, it’s packed with pony rides, pumpkin patches, and petting zoo animals that are somehow cleaner than your dog. There’s live entertainment for the kids and snacks for the adults, and by the end of it all, you’ll be covered in hay, caramel, and happiness. Just how it should be.

Further east in Sayville, Saturday is serving up two totally different — but equally Long Island — vibes. First, there’s the Town of Islip Apple Festival at Grange Park. This event is a love letter to classic autumn: apples, local vendors, folk music, and that magical mix of cold air and warm food that makes you feel like you're in a fall-themed Hallmark movie — minus the awkward romantic subplot.

But if you're more in the “beers and bivalves” mood, Shucktoberfest at the Cull House is happening the same day. Think: Oktoberfest, but with oysters. It’s a seafood-heavy celebration with live music, craft beer, and the kind of menu that dares you to finish it all. It's one of those adult-only treats that makes you remember, "Oh yeah... we used to go out and eat things not shaped like dinosaurs."

Want something peaceful? Artistic? Possibly Instagram able? Then the Ikebana Flower Arrangement Experience in Mill Neck on Saturday afternoon might be just your thing. It’s a Japanese floral design workshop — calm, focused, and 100% free of inflatable anything. Perfect for couples, solo escapes, or that one friend in your group who’s secretly dreaming of starting a home décor blog.

🏡 What This Has to Do With Real Estate

Now I know what you’re thinking: “Dean, this sounds like the perfect weekend — but why is my real estate guy telling me about flower workshops and scarecrow hikes?”

Because this is why we live here.

It’s not just about square footage and school districts — it’s about life. Community. Being able to fill a weekend with local magic without driving two hours or dropping $500 at a theme park. This is Long Island life — and if your current home isn’t giving you the room, comfort, or backyard you really want for these moments... maybe it’s time we chat.

Whether you’re thinking of upsizing, downsizing, or relocating completely, I’ve got the insight, tools, and strategy to help you move smarter — not louder.

🌐 Explore More: www.TheBeaconTeam.comTalk soon — and enjoy the cider. (Get the hot one. You’ll thank me.)