🎤 Kilts, Cotton Candy & Punk Rock: Long Island’s Weekend Lineup Is All Vibes

August 29–31, 2025 | Curated by Dean Miller

This is one of those weekends that makes you think: “Why haven’t we done this before?”
The weather’s still holding strong, summer break is on its last legs, and Long Island is absolutely bursting at the seams with things to do — from Celtic warriors in kilts to nostalgic carnival rides, live music in waterfront towns, and local vendor fairs that make Amazon look lazy.

If you’re on the fence about going out, I’m here to kick that fence down and hand you a funnel cake.

Let’s map it out 👇


🎯 SATURDAY KICKS OFF WITH CULTURE (AND KILTS)

Start your Saturday morning with something that sounds like it came from a Netflix show and not a garden on Long Island .Need something a bit more… “retail therapy”? Hit the Farmingdale Village Vendor Fair running Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It’s got handmade goods, local art, small biz energy, and it’s a great excuse to grab coffee and people-watch while pretending you’re just “browsing.”


🎸 SATURDAY NIGHT IS FOR TRIBUTE BANDS & DEEP CUTS

Once the sun starts to dip, head over to The Warehouse in Amityville. At 7:00 PM, Petty People, a Tom Petty tribute band, takes the stage — and yes, you will know every single song. Singing along is optional, but inevitable.

Prefer dinner with your live music? Hard Drive is performing at Ristegio’s in Patchogue on Friday night at 8:30 PM, bringing good vibes, good tunes, and a solid excuse to order dessert after your entrée.



🏖️ SUNDAY IS FOR SUN, SAND & SOUND

There are two places I always recommend when someone says, “We just want something relaxing to do on Sunday.”

Captree State Park — Especially if you want a little music with your fresh air. On Sunday at 4:00 PM, the Electric Voodoo Dudes (yes, that’s their real name) will be rocking from the Fishfinder Dock. Pack a chair, bring snacks, and let the kids run around while the music plays. Instant win.

If you’re still in party mode, head down to the Nautical Mile in Freeport for the Sunday Funday Live Music Series at 3:00 PM. Great views, live sets, and the kind of easygoing crowd that makes you forget Monday exists.


🤘 FEELING A LITTLE LOUDER?

You already know what I’m going to say: Long Island’s punk and hardcore scene is still alive — and it’s thriving.
Venues like Amityville Music Hall and others are hosting shows all weekend. Times vary, the mosh pits are alive, and there’s a 100% chance someone will be crowd-surfing by song three.

Just... don’t wear open-toed shoes. I’ve warned you.


🧭 THE WEEKEND, DEAN-STYLE:

  • Friday Night: Dinner & live music at Ristegio’s

  • Saturday: Celtic Fest in the morning, vendor fair stroll midday, Petty tribute in the evening

  • Sunday: Captree with live music, capped off with Freeport vibes


🏡 ONE LAST THING...

Weekends like this are a reminder of how good we’ve got it here. But if your current home’s not cutting it anymore — whether it’s the layout, location, or lack of a yard big enough for the dog AND the kids — it might be time to upgrade. And if you’re ready, I’ll help you find the right place without the pressure.

📲 DM me for local advice, restaurant recs, or real estate help. I’m your neighbor, not a salesperson. Let’s build a weekend lifestyle that feels like home.