What’s Happening This Weekend on Long Island? (July 19–21, 2025)

From art shows and film expos to street festivals and jazz under the stars, Long Island is the place to be this weekend. Whether you're heading out with family, friends, or flying solo, here's your curated guide to the best local events—plus expert tips to get the most out of each one.


🎬 Long Island International Film Expo

📍 Bellmore Movies, Bellmore
📅 July 19–21 (Multiple screenings daily)

A paradise for film buffs! Watch short films, indie gems, and documentaries from around the globe.
Expert Tip: Arrive early for panel discussions and filmmaker Q&As—this is where the behind-the-scenes magic happens. Want to impress a date or friend? Pick a lesser-known foreign film and talk about it over coffee afterward at a nearby café.


🎉 Alive on 25 Street Festival

📍 Main Street, Riverhead
📅 Friday, July 19 — 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM

Downtown Riverhead comes alive with music, food trucks, artisan booths, and local brews.
Expert Tip: Parking can be tough—grab a spot near the train station and walk in. Bring cash for vendors, and time your visit around sunset for great photos and fewer crowds. Families with kids? Arrive early. Night owls? Stay late for the live music!


🎪 Smith Haven Mall Carnival

📍 Smith Haven Mall, Lake Grove
📅 Friday, July 19 — 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM

The last day of this summer carnival features all your favorites—rides, funnel cake, and glowing lights.
Expert Tip: Check the mall’s event site or social media for wristband deals. Dress cool and comfy—midway rides + Long Island humidity = serious sweat.


🎨 Arts in the Plaza

📍 Kennedy Plaza, Long Beach
📅 Saturday, July 20 — 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM

This open-air arts fair brings together top Long Island creators just steps from the beach.
Expert Tip: Make a morning of it—shop the market, grab a smoothie from a local vendor, then head to the boardwalk or beach. Want original decor or unique gifts? Shop early—one-of-a-kind pieces go fast!


🧒 Family Fair at CMEE

📍 CMEE, Bridgehampton
📅 Saturday, July 20 — 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM

Hosted by the Children’s Museum of the East End, this event has everything from puppet shows to splash pads.
Expert Tip: Bring a change of clothes for the kids—between the water play and crafts, they’ll get messy. Arrive right at 9:30 for a relaxed entry and less heat.


🎷 Tilles Jazz Fest

📍 Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, Brookville
📅 Saturday, July 20 — 5:00 PM onward

Nothing says summer like live jazz under the stars.
Expert Tip: Bring a low-profile lawn chair or picnic blanket for the best views without blocking others. Pair the music with a cheese plate and sparkling cider for a romantic evening. Don’t forget bug spray!


🎢 Adventureland Amusement Park

📍 East Farmingdale
📅 Open all weekend (Check website for hours)

Roller coasters, water rides, arcade games—Adventureland is a summer tradition at its finest.
Expert Tip: Go early to beat the lines, especially on Sunday. Pack sunscreen and refillable water bottles. Traveling with little kids? Stick to the Kiddie Land rides near the entrance for easy exits and shorter lines.


🏞️ Long Island Fair at Old Bethpage Village

📍 Old Bethpage Village Restoration, Old Bethpage
📅 Saturday–Sunday, July 20–21 — 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

A throwback to the 1800s, this fair includes costumed interpreters, vintage games, and old-school entertainment.
Expert Tip: Wear walking shoes—there’s a lot of ground to cover. This is one of the best spots for Instagram-worthy historical content, so bring your camera. Want a quieter experience? Visit Sunday morning before noon.


🌟 Final Thoughts

Long Island is more than beaches—this weekend proves it! From indie films to jazz fests, from historic reenactments to kid-friendly carnivals, there's something for everyone.