Fun Things Happening on Long Island This Weekend (Nov 21–23)

If you’ve been staring at your calendar wondering how it’s already late November (same), don’t panic — Long Island has decided to distract us from the chaos of time with a full lineup of weekend events. Whether you're in the mood for holiday sparkle, artisanal shopping, live music, or you’re simply trying to avoid doing chores, there’s something out there with your name on it.

A Weekend Full of Music & People Selling Hand-Made Soap

Start your Friday on a classy note with the Northport Symphony Orchestra, performing at Northport High School. It’s the kind of event that makes you feel sophisticated just by attending — no music degree required. Sit back, embrace the dramatic crescendos, and pretend you’re the main character of your own movie.

Over in East Islip, the East Islip Craft Fair is returning with over 100 vendors. That means everything from handmade ornaments to candles scented like emotions you didn’t know could smell like something. If you're someone who likes to start holiday shopping early — or pretend you did — this is your playground. And if one craft fair isn’t enough, don’t worry: Santaport in Centerport and the festive gathering at Ascension Lutheran Church in Deer Park are also ready to supply you with all the homemade gifts, knitted scarves, and artisanal jams you can fit in your tote bag.

Now, if you prefer your weekend a bit more “quiet and meaningful,” head to the Long Island Museum in Stony Brook for the “Through Our Eyes” exhibition. It features artworks created through the LI State Veterans Home program — a heartfelt, reflective experience that pairs perfectly with a warm coffee afterward. And yes, this is the classy balance we all strive for after hitting three craft fairs in 24 hours.

Families with little ones can check out the Girl Scout badge-earning program at the Walt Whitman Birthplace Museum. It’s educational, hands-on, and a great way to burn off some kid energy before the holiday break officially begins. For bonus points, casually mention Whitman facts at dinner later.

Looking for something a little more low-key? Swing by Tiny Raccoon Books in Sayville for their November Music Matinee. It’s cozy, it’s quirky, and it’s the kind of event where you feel instantly cooler just by being in the room — like you stumbled into an indie film.

If you’d rather burn calories before Thanksgiving attempts to destroy your willpower, the Long Beach Turkey Trot is happening Saturday morning. You can run, jog, walk, or dramatically wheeze your way through it. No judgment. The Trot is all about good vibes, great energy, and earning that future pie.

Rounding out the list is Otto’s Holiday Market in Freeport, a “sip & shop” afternoon that combines festive shopping with the joy of eating something delicious while holding holiday bags. Honestly, it’s multitasking at its finest.

Final Thoughts

Long Island really said, “Let’s give them options,” this weekend — and honestly, we appreciate the effort. Whether you're looking to feel cultured, festive, active, or just mildly entertained, there’s something going on between Nov 21–24 that fits the assignment.