Twinkle Lights, Santa Sightings & Last-Minute Magic: What’s Happening This Weekend on Long Island (Dec 19–21, 2025)

Okay, let’s be real for a second — it’s the weekend before Christmas. The kids are bouncing off the walls, your inbox is full of emails from stores you don’t even remember shopping at, and the elf on the shelf is now more of a “eh, we forgot again.” But listen — Long Island is showing up big this weekend. If you need a break from gift wrapping, Amazon tracking, or just want to get the family out of the house (without hearing the dreaded “I’m bored”), this one’s for you.

🕯️ Want to feel like you’re in a Christmas movie — but classy?

Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings is your answer. Taking place at the CM Performing Arts Center in Oakdale, this magical concert series features a string quartet performing holiday favorites in a space illuminated entirely by candlelight. There’s something about hearing “Silent Night” with a cello involved that hits differently — and makes even your Grinchy cousin get misty-eyed. Catch it Friday or Saturday night (check for showtimes — and yes, you’ll want tickets in advance).

🏰 Prefer your Christmas with a side of vintage charm?

Then don’t miss Christmas at Westbury House at Old Westbury Gardens. This historic estate transforms into a Victorian winter wonderland for the season, complete with holiday décor, traditional wreaths, and the kind of staircase you’d expect someone to dramatically descend while holding a tray of sugar cookies. It’s open Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM, and it’s a perfect slower-paced option if you’re craving calm after a crazy week.

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🐾 For the pet parents out there — don’t worry, Fluffy gets a holiday moment too.

FETCH in Huntington is hosting their annual **Holiday Pet Photoshoot** on Saturday, and yes — dogs in reindeer antlers are basically required. Whether your pup is a poser or a wiggle worm, you’ll walk away with photos that are way cuter than your family holiday card.

🏰 Feeling fancy? Take a step back in time.

Christmas at Westbury House is the kind of event where you’ll say things like “Is that a Tiffany lamp?” and “This garland smells amazing.” The entire estate is decked out in traditional decor, and you’ll leave feeling like you just attended the Gilded Age version of Christmas Eve. It’s classy, calm, and your chance to feel like you’re in a Hallmark movie — minus the dramatic love triangle.

🥞 Let’s talk Santa. And pancakes.

If you haven’t been to brunch with Santa at Desmond’s Restaurant at East Wind in Wading River yet, this is your sign. Happening Sunday, 9:30 AM to 3 PM, this isn’t just any brunch. It’s where you can sip coffee while your kid gives Santa their list (again) and you pretend you didn’t hear them add a pony. Great food, good photos, no mall chaos. Make a reservation — this one fills up quickly.

🧶 Over in Hampton Bays, the Fire Department is getting crafty.

The Holiday Gift Fair is happening Saturday with a lineup of local vendors selling everything from ornaments to homemade jam. It’s low-key, super friendly, and a great spot to pick up something that doesn’t feel mass-produced or overpriced.

🏍️ And finally, the Harley Owners Group Toy Run out of Babylon Town Hall is revving up on Saturday morning.

There’s something heartwarming (and a little wild) about seeing dozens of motorcyclists riding in with toys strapped to their bikes. If your kids love the sound of engines and the sight of big hearts doing good, this one’s worth checking out.

🎁 So... what’s the move?

Long Island is PACKED with things to do this weekend, and whether you’re riding through a tunnel of lights, sipping hot cocoa under giant lanterns, or high-fiving Santa at brunch, this is the time to slow down and soak it all in.

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