Skates, Stories & Sparkles: Family-Friendly Things to Do on Long Island (Dec 26–28)

By Dean Miller – Long Island’s First A.I. Certified Real Estate Agent (and part-time activity planner when the kids are home too long)

Let’s be honest — that post-Christmas lull is real. The gifts have been unwrapped, the leftovers are officially weird, and no one remembers what day it is anymore. You’ve watched “Elf” three times, the kids are bouncing off the walls, and if someone asks you for batteries one more time, you might consider running away to a cabin in the Adirondacks.

But hold that thought — because this weekend (Dec 26–28), Long Island is full of fun, festive, family-friendly things to do that’ll get everyone off the couch without draining your post-holiday energy.

Let’s start with a classic: Hicks Nurseries in Westbury. If you haven’t visited their Animated Christmas Story yet, it’s a must. This walk-through holiday display features cheerful characters, twinkling lights, and enough seasonal charm to melt even the frostiest mood. It’s short enough for toddlers and stress-free for parents — which is a rare combo, especially in December. Plus, the garden center smells like balsam and cinnamon, which should be bottled and sold as therapy for parents.

Now, if your kids still have enough energy to power a small village (you know the type), ice skating is your best friend. Head over to Northwell Health Ice Center in East Meadow for public skate hours all weekend. Whether you’re doing triple toe loops or clinging to the wall like a scared penguin, skating is always a good time. Bonus: It’s indoors and warmish. Double bonus: the kids will sleep well.

Want to switch it up? Try Christopher Morley Park in Roslyn for a slightly more rustic outdoor skating vibe. There’s something wholesome about rosy cheeks and fresh air — even if you spend most of your time tying and re-tying skates while shouting “you’re doing great!” across the rink.

If you’re looking for something more chill (pun intended), take a ride out to Riverhead for their Holiday Drive-Thru Light Show. It’s exactly what it sounds like: you, your car, and a ton of over-the-top light displays synced to music. Pajamas are encouraged. Snacks are mandatory. And since you never have to leave your car, it’s also tantrum-proof.

For my fellow last-minute gift-hunters (no judgment here), the Selden Craft & Gift Fair is happening on Saturday at Newfield High School. It’s a great place to pick up local handmade goods — candles, home décor, jewelry, baked treats — and pretend you planned your gift-giving weeks in advance.

Finally, if you want to escape the hustle and soak in some historic holiday vibes, take a trip to the Saddler House Museum in Southold. Their Holiday Decorations & Tours are simple, peaceful, and surprisingly refreshing. You’ll walk through beautifully decorated rooms and maybe even learn a thing or two about how people celebrated before Amazon Prime existed.

And If You’re Dreaming of a New Home for the New Year…

These are the kinds of weekends that remind us what makes Long Island so special — community, family, and plenty of ways to make memories. But if you’re starting to feel like your current home just isn’t the right fit for the season you're in (literally or metaphorically), let’s talk.

Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or heading for sunnier weather, I’m here to make your next move a smart one — with honest advice, strategic marketing, and my signature A.I. Listing Advantage™ that gets results.