Family-Friendly North Fork Events
Click the below form to chat about including your event, workshop, or program on Petite’s event calendar.
Seasonal Craft Sessions with Miss. Amber
Presented by Town of Riverhead Recreation:
Friday, Nov. 15 6 p.m. - FALL HARVEST CRAFT
Saturday, Dec. 14 10 a.m. - WINTERY FESTIVE CRAFT
Saturday, Dec. 21 10 a.m. - CHRISTMAS CRAFT
Join Ms. Amber for one (or all) of her three upcoming seasonal craft nights! Kids ages 5 to 10 can make a fun craft to bring home and show off at the upcoming holiday celebrations. All programs take place at the George Young Community Center in Jamesport.
Registration is required! $25/participant/night
Call (631)727-3200 x737 or visit www.riverheadrecreation.net
Skating with Santa
Skate with Santa at this event hosted at Peconic Ice Rinks in Calverton. Attendees will enjoy skating, reindeer games, prizes, and a free group lesson.
$14 entry fee, $7 skate rental ($11/children under 14, $9/military and seniors)
Winter Solstice Hike & Craft Workshop
Join the Group at Downs Farm Preserve in Cutchogue to create a winter wood cookie ornament and take a walk on the trails. Led by environmental artist and educator Tony Valderrama, this nature outing is in celebration of the winter solstice.
This event takes place outdoors, please dress appropriately. There is no restroom on site. Space is limited and advanced registration is required.
For questions, please contact Group outreach director Taralynn Reynolds at treynolds@eastendenvironment.org.
Science Saturdays: Puffy Snow Ball Phlubber
Learn all about the chemistry of concocting a puffy phlubber and make a fun sensory snow ball phlubber to bring home!
Science Saturday Workshop prices ($20 per student) include the workshop and museum admission for the participating student. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Adults must purchase admission upon entry ($15 per person). This is not a drop-off program, an adult must be present at all times. Science Saturdays are free for members. Enroll here.
Family Hike and Nature Craft to Celebrate the Winter Season!
December 21st is the Winter Solstice and Group For The East End is inviting you and your family and friends to spend some time walking and creating with at Downs Farm Preserve in Cutchogue.
Tony Valderrama, environmental artist, and educator, will be leading you through a winter wood cookie ornament craft, followed by a short walk on the trails.
Come dressed for the weather!
If you have questions about the program please contact Group outreach director Taralynn Reynolds at treynolds@eastendenvironment.org
Space is limited. No restroom available on site.
Cost is $14.64/person. Sign up now!
Sensory Sing & Sway at Inspire Dance Centre
Join Little Moments, Little Fam and Inspire Dance Centre for a morning of holiday fun including sensory play, music, and movement.
$30/child
Skating with Santa
Skate with Santa at this event hosted at Peconic Ice Rinks in Calverton. Attendees will enjoy skating, reindeer games, prizes, and a free group lesson.
$14 entry fee, $7 skate rental ($11/children under 14, $9/military and seniors)
Decorate ornaments at VEME Studios
Let your kiddo tap into their creative side with an afternoon of ornament decorating on Sunday, Dec. 22 from 2 to 4 p.m. This event is free, open to all, and does not require registration. More info here.
Paint a hot chocolate mug at Mugs on Main
Head to Mugs on Main in Downtown Riverhead on Sunday, Dec. 22 to enjoy hot chocolate and a chocolate chip cookie while you make a mug to take home!
$20/decorator
The Suffolk Family Film Series: Frozen
On Sunday, December 22 at 5 p.m. head to The Suffolk in downtown Riverhead to watch Frozen with the whole family!
Embark on a frosty adventure with Frozen! Join Anna, Elsa, and their lovable companions as they journey through a winter wonderland to break Elsa’s icy spell and save their kingdom from eternal winter. With enchanting music, breathtaking animation, and a tale of sisterly love and bravery, this family favorite promises an unforgettable experience that will thaw even the coldest of hearts and leave families singing along with joy.
The Family Film Series at The Suffolk features a kid-friendly food & drink menu.
Tickets cost $15 per person. Purchase here!
Holiday-inspired day of fun: GRINCH Camp
Drop the kids at North Fork Cheer for a day of holiday-inspired fun including crafts, cookie decorating, tumble workshops, ninja, free play and more!
Monday, Dec. 23 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
$70/child
Science Saturdays: Hovering Balloon Game
Head to LISC to engineer a hovering balloon game! Learn how the Engineering Design Process and the physics of air in motion can create a fun hovering wonder anywhere you go!
Science Saturday Workshop prices ($20 per student) include the workshop and museum admission for the participating student. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Adults must purchase admission upon entry ($15 per person). This is not a drop-off program, an adult must be present at all times. Science Saturdays are free for members. Enroll here.
Chanukah Block Party
Kids of all ages are invited to the CKids Chanukah Block Party.
Ready to hit the town? Tune in to the Neighborhood News Station for laugh-out-loud holiday updates before setting off to deliver timely DreidelDash orders.
This year, Chabad of North Fork is all about spreading the miracle of Chanukah far and wide - because when you’ve got the light, you share the light. After completing your orders, create and customize your own Electroluminescent Chanukah Sculpture to brighten up your block. Then, swing by the Glow & Go Post Office to spread Chanukah joy with a neighbor. And on your way to the grand community Menorah lighting, visit the Food Truck Fest to sample and rate your favorite Chanukah treats.
This year, be a lamplighter and illuminate your city streets with Jewish Pride!
Creativity and collaboration skills. With joyful Jewish experiences and memories to last a lifetime.
20th Annual Variety Show
Join North Fork Community Theatre for their 20th Anniversary Variety Show, which raises funds for local high school scholarships. The family-friendly show will run on Friday, Jan. 3, and Saturday, Jan. 4 at 7:30 p.m. and on Sunday, Jan. 5 at 2:30 p.m.
Tickets ($20) will be sold at the door.
For information, contact Mary Motto Kalich at marymotto@yahoo.com or 917-334-6639.
New Year's Nature Hike
Start the New Year right and get outside with the Group! Environmental artist and educator Tony Valderrama will lead a family-friendly hike at Downs Farm Preserve in Cutchogue.
Please dress for the weather. No restrooms available on site. Registration is required.
For more information, contact Group outreach director Taralynn Reynolds at treynolds@eastendenvironment.org
20th Annual Variety Show
Join North Fork Community Theatre for their 20th Anniversary Variety Show, which raises funds for local high school scholarships. The family-friendly show will run on Friday, Jan. 3, and Saturday, Jan. 4 at 7:30 p.m. and on Sunday, Jan. 5 at 2:30 p.m.
Tickets ($20) will be sold at the door.
For information, contact Mary Motto Kalich at marymotto@yahoo.com or 917-334-6639.
GUNK Girl Funk Band
GUNK, the eight-piece, Motown-inspired girl funk band, will bring its energetic and wildly entertaining music to the Jamesport Meeting House on Saturday, January 4 at 7:30 p.m.. GUNK is comprised of local music teachers and musicians who perform on guitar, bass, drums, keyboard, trombone, alto saxophone and tenor/baritone saxophone and vocals. While drawing inspiration from the original Motown girl groups of the 1950's and 60's – GUNK delivers a big, brassy up-to-the minute sound that will rock the New Year and keep spirits bright. The energetic sounds of this up-and-coming musical powerhouse appeal to all ages. Tickets for GUNK at the Jamesport Meeting House are only $10 and may be purchased online through www.jamesportmeetinghouse.org. The Jamesport Meeting House, located at 1590 Main Rd. (Route 25) in Jamesport, is the oldest public building on the East End and is noted for its outstanding acoustics, as well as its historical value. Come see GUNK on January 4 and Get GUNKY! Instagram @GETGUNKY
Tickets are $10 and may be purchased in advance at www.jamesportmeetinghouse.org or at the door, if available.
20th Annual Variety Show
Join North Fork Community Theatre for their 20th Anniversary Variety Show, which raises funds for local high school scholarships. The family-friendly show will run on Friday, Jan. 3, and Saturday, Jan. 4 at 7:30 p.m. and on Sunday, Jan. 5 at 2:30 p.m.
Tickets ($20) will be sold at the door.
For information, contact Mary Motto Kalich at marymotto@yahoo.com or 917-334-6639.
Talking Stick Workshop
Join the Group for an exciting workshop with environmental artist and educator Tony Valderrama.
Tony will lead you through the creation of your own talking stick, a powerful communication tool in Indigenous communities. Participants will also learn the history and meaning behind this important tradition.
Registration for this family-friendly program is limited and required.
For more information, contact Group outreach director Taralynn Reynolds at treynolds@eastendenvironment.org.
A Little Holiday Adventure with Little Moments, Little Fam
Join Little Moments, Little Fam for magical Christmas Sensory Play in Greenport!
Dates: Wednesday, December 4th & 18th from 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM at the GDC Roller Skate Rink.
Let your little ones explore festive sensory bins, process art, and holiday-themed activities perfect for ages 18 months to 5 years.
Cost: $30/child, $25/siblings
A Little Holiday Adventure with Little Moments, Little Fam
Join Little Moments, Little Fam at Stroller Strong Mamas in Mattituck on Tuesday, Dec. 17, from 11:00 AM – 11:45 AM for holiday-themed sensory play.
$30/child, use code littlemoments for $5 off
Register here.
North Fork Community Theatre's Holiday Concert
Celebrate the holiday season at North Fork Community Theatre’s Holiday Concert!
Head to Mattituck theatre on Sat., Dec., 14 at 7:30 p.,. and Sun., Dec. 15 at 2:30 p.m. for festive holiday music, cheer, and all of your favorite songs, beautifully performed by NFCT alumni.
This event is free of charge and welcome to all. No tickets or registration required. Concessions will be available.
The Treatery's Cookies Cocoa & Christmas
Join The Treatery for the First Annual “Cookies Cocoa & Christmas” at Breeze Hill Farm in Peconic.
Each $20 ticket includes:
A gingerbread decorating cookie kit with homemade cookies, royal icing, candy for decorating, and one mini Treatery chocolate chip cookie.
Additionally, the Grinch will be visiting for photo ops, a loaded hot cocoa bar will be available, plus s’mores by the fire pits.
Purchase tickets here.
Railroad Museum of Long Island: Holiday Open House with a visit from Santa
Presented by the Railroad Museum of Long Island
RIVERHEAD – Saturday December 7th & Sunday December 8th
11:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Free admission
Santa arrives at Noon on a track speeder
Refreshments
Gifts for good girls and boys
Gift Shop Open
WIN – a LIONEL “O” Gauge Toy Trainset
GREENPORT - Saturday December 14th & Sunday December 15th
10:30 AM – 2:00 PM
Free admission
Santa arrives at 10:45 AM on the LIRR Scoot
Refreshments
Gifts for good girls and boys
Gift Shop Open
WIN – a LIONEL “O” Gauge Toy Trainset
North Fork Community Theatre's Holiday Concert
Celebrate the holiday season at North Fork Community Theatre’s Holiday Concert!
Head to Mattituck theatre on Sat., Dec., 14 at 7:30 p.,. and Sun., Dec. 15 at 2:30 p.m. for festive holiday music, cheer, and all of your favorite songs, beautifully performed by NFCT alumni.
This event is free of charge and welcome to all. No tickets or registration required. Concessions will be available.
Science Saturdays: Winter Coding Unplugged
Learn the basics of coding and try out a fun coding project! Put your skills to the test and use offscreen coding to reveal a fun, secret image.
Science Saturday Workshop prices ($20 per student) include the workshop and museum admission for the participating student. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Adults must purchase admission upon entry ($15 per person). This is not a drop-off program, an adult must be present at all times. Science Saturdays are free for members. Enroll here.
Railroad Museum of Long Island: Holiday Open House with a visit from Santa
Presented by the Railroad Museum of Long Island
RIVERHEAD – Saturday December 7th & Sunday December 8th
11:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Free admission
Santa arrives at Noon on a track speeder
Refreshments
Gifts for good girls and boys
Gift Shop Open
WIN – a LIONEL “O” Gauge Toy Trainset
GREENPORT - Saturday December 14th & Sunday December 15th
10:30 AM – 2:00 PM
Free admission
Santa arrives at 10:45 AM on the LIRR Scoot
Refreshments
Gifts for good girls and boys
Gift Shop Open
WIN – a LIONEL “O” Gauge Toy Trainset
Seasonal Craft Sessions with Miss. Amber
Presented by Town of Riverhead Recreation:
Friday, Nov. 15 6 p.m. - FALL HARVEST CRAFT
Saturday, Dec. 14 10 a.m. - WINTERY FESTIVE CRAFT
Saturday, Dec. 21 10 a.m. - CHRISTMAS CRAFT
Join Ms. Amber for one (or all) of her three upcoming seasonal craft nights! Kids ages 5 to 10 can make a fun craft to bring home and show off at the upcoming holiday celebrations. All programs take place at the George Young Community Center in Jamesport.
Registration is required! $25/participant/night
Call (631)727-3200 x737 or visit www.riverheadrecreation.net
Puppet Theater Workshop with Carmen Campos
Join Carmen Campos at Peconic Community School for an exhilarating journey into the world of puppetry! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll create your very own one-of-a-kind puppets and learn to bring them to life like never before! Dive into the art of storytelling as you master voice techniques and dynamic movements, transforming your puppets into captivating characters.
You'll also be introduced to the enchanting world of Crankie Theater, where your creativity will truly shine! The experience will culminate in an exciting mini-performance, showcasing your unique creations and skills. Don’t miss this chance to explore your imagination and take center stage!
Saturday, Dec. 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Students in grades 2 through 6 welcome to join.
Cost is $125/student. Register here.
Cookies & Crafts with Santa
Celebrate the holidays with Santa on Friday, Dec 13th, at the Southold Recreation Center, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Ages: 5-10 years old.
Drop off the youngsters for an evening of holiday crafts and cookies. Santa's elves will serve up some cookies, we'll watch a holiday movie and make crafts suitable for under the Christmas tree. Santa will stop by for a quick reading of the Night Before Christmas and a brief photo opportunity at the end of the evening.
There is NO FEE for this event, but REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED!
THIS IS A DROP-OFF PROGRAM.
Afterschool Snacks with Santa at Southold American Legion
The Southold American Legion Auxiliary Griswold Terry Glover Post 803 invites North Fork children to enjoy afterschool snacks, crafts and coloring, storytime, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus on Monday, December 9, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the American Legion Post, 51655 Main Road in Southold. The event is free and open to the public. Open to all children, but most appropriate for children ages 8 and younger. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Santa and Mrs. Claus to arrive at approximately 4:30 p.m.
Free and open to the public, no registration required.
Historic Holidays at Hallockville Museum Farm
Experience old-fashioned North Fork holiday traditions during the Historic Holidays at Hallockville on Sunday, December 8 from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. This is a free event.
Holiday displays in three historic residences on the 28-acre preserved farm will be staffed by costumed docents welcoming guests and sharing stories of past holiday celebrations. Historic Holidays at Hallockville is free and open to the public as the Museum Farm’s holiday gift to the community.
The Hallock Homestead, a mid-eighteenth-century structure listed on the National Register of Historic Places, will be decorated for a Victorian Christmas. Visitors may tour the residence while enjoying the aromas of holiday treats being baked in an antique wood stove as they learn how Christmas came to the North Fork primarily as a secular celebration.
At the Cichanowicz Farmhouse, guests will enjoy a Christmas Eve celebration as it would have been experienced by Polish immigrants to the North Fork in the 1930s, when the house was built. In Polish culture, Christmas Eve is a major holiday, highlighted by a special dinner, gift-giving and other traditions. Learn more here.
Railroad Museum of Long Island: Holiday Open House with a visit from Santa
Presented by the Railroad Museum of Long Island
RIVERHEAD – Saturday December 7th & Sunday December 8th
11:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Free admission
Santa arrives at Noon on a track speeder
Refreshments
Gifts for good girls and boys
Gift Shop Open
WIN – a LIONEL “O” Gauge Toy Trainset
GREENPORT - Saturday December 14th & Sunday December 15th
10:30 AM – 2:00 PM
Free admission
Santa arrives at 10:45 AM on the LIRR Scoot
Refreshments
Gifts for good girls and boys
Gift Shop Open
WIN – a LIONEL “O” Gauge Toy Trainset
Brunch with Santa at the Long Island Aquarium
Celebrate the season at Long Island Aquarium’s annual Santa Brunch! Dine on family-style brunch in the waterfront Sea Star Ballroom, take photos with Santa, and make a special holiday keepsake. Visit the aquarium before or after Santa Brunch! This event is planned for Sunday, Dec. 8 with seatings at 10 a.m. 12 and 2 p.m. Tickets cost $78/adult, $42/child 3-12, and $10.35/child 2 and under. Member discounts are available. Purchase tickets here.
Family Fun Night Music and Dancing
Get ready for an evening of fun and entertainment with your family and friends on Friday, December 7th at the Greenport American Legion!
The doors open at 6 p.m. and the cash bar is ready to serve your favorite drinks. You don't want to miss out on the amazing music and dancing that awaits you at Greenport American Legion Hall!
Greenport Village Tree Lighting
A parade, holiday-themed activities, tree lighting, and more, Greenport Village Tree Lighting will include fun for all. Saturday, Dec. 7 from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. But, it doesn’t stop there, Greenport Village has plenty of events and activities scheduled for the month of December. Learn more here.
Christmas Tree Lighting at The Shoppes at East Wind
Holiday Tree Lighting with Santa at The Shoppes
December 7 @ 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Saturday, December 7, 2024 from 4 PM – 8 PM – Rain or Shine
8th Annual Tree Lighting! Join The Shoppes at East Wind on Saturday December 7 for our annual holiday tree lighting! Stop by to put a letter in Santa’s mailbox*, enjoy our live DJ entertainment with LI Sound Entertainment and dance number by All Star Dance Academy, Ride Rudolph on the Carousel and more holiday fun including holiday shopping. Santa arrives on a Wading River Fire Department Fire Truck at 6pm to light the tree. Bring a new unwrapped toy to support Toys for Tots and the US Marines and a non perishable food item for local families in need. Don’t forget to bring your camera to take free photo with Santa. Admission is free.
*Santa Mailbox will be out after Thanksgiving on Friday, November 29. Mail your letters by December 19 to receive a return letter back from Santa!
For more information please call 631-846-2372
Download your pre-designed Santa letter here or use your own – don’t forget to include your return address to receive a letter from Santa.
Holiday Tree Lighting at Orient Beach State Park
TREE LIGHTING SATURDAY DECEMBER 7TH.
FESTIVITIES START AT 4 PM WITH SANTA BEING LED BY THE ORIENT FIRE DEPARTMENT FOLLOWED BY THE LIGHTING OF THE TREE AT 5 PM
HOT CHOCOLATE, COOKIES, PICTURES WITH SANTA, AND CANDY BAGS MADE BY THE ORIENT CANDY MAN.
Christmas Tree Lighting & Caroling at the Cutchogue Village Green
The Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at the Cutchogue-New Suffolk Historical Society on Village Green will take place on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 3 to 5:30 p.m.
The day will include live music, caroling, the tree lighting, a visit from Santa, and more.
This event is family-friendly, free, and open to all.
Meet Santa and snack on treats at Hotel Moraine
Santa is coming to Hotel Moraine! On Saturday, Dec. 7 from 2 to 4 p.m., head to Hotel Moraine in Greenport for an afternoon of cookies, cocoa, and photos with Santa. No registration required.
Downtown Riverhead Christmas Festivities
On Sat., Dec. 7, beginning at 1 p.m., Downtown Riverhead is celebrating the season with a parade, Santa’s arrival by boat at 2:30 p.m., musical performances, crafts, games, a bonfire, and a tree lighting at 5:15 p.m. This event is free and open to all.
Mattituck Park District Santa Day
On Saturday, Dec. 7 from noon to 4 p.m., join the Mattituck Chamber of Commerce along with the Mattituck Park District for an afternoon of caroling, hot chocolate, Santa photos, games, and fun for all. This event is free and open to all. Located at Veterans Beach in Mattituck. More info here.
Railroad Museum of Long Island: Holiday Open House with a visit from Santa
Presented by the Railroad Museum of Long Island
RIVERHEAD – Saturday December 7th & Sunday December 8th
11:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Free admission
Santa arrives at Noon on a track speeder
Refreshments
Gifts for good girls and boys
Gift Shop Open
WIN – a LIONEL “O” Gauge Toy Trainset
GREENPORT - Saturday December 14th & Sunday December 15th
10:30 AM – 2:00 PM
Free admission
Santa arrives at 10:45 AM on the LIRR Scoot
Refreshments
Gifts for good girls and boys
Gift Shop Open
WIN – a LIONEL “O” Gauge Toy Trainset
Christmas Baking Workshop for Kids!
Join Little Baker Paradise for a kids’ Christmas baking workshop on Friday, Dec. 6 at 6 p.m. at the Port Overlook.
In this workshop, kids ages 5+ will bake, decorate, and create holiday treats, craft a holiday ornament, play holiday games, and do holiday-themed activities.
Cost is $35/child, $25/each addtl. sibling. Email: litterbakerparadise@gmail.com to register.
Annual Jamesport Tree Lighting
The annual tree lighting at the George Young Community Center is coming up! Join the Jamesport Fire Department on December 5th at 6:00pm for hot chocolate, caroling with the students from Aquebogue Elementary, and of course SANTA!
Make holiday cards for local community members with SMC
Join Southod Mothers’ Club for a fun and festive evening of card-making! Let’s spread some holiday cheer to seniors residing at Peconic Landing and the hardworking RNs and nursing staff at Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital.
Event Details:
Ages: 2 - teens
When: Wednesday, December 4th
Where: Southold Free Library
Time: 4:30PM-6:30PM
Food: Pizza will be served at 5:30PM
This event is free with RSVP. Learn more here.
A Little Holiday Adventure with Little Moments, Little Fam
Join Little Moments, Little Fam for magical Christmas Sensory Play in Greenport!
Dates: Wednesday, December 4th & 18th from 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM at the GDC Roller Skate Rink.
Let your little ones explore festive sensory bins, process art, and holiday-themed activities perfect for ages 18 months to 5 years.
Cost: $30/child, $25/siblings
Winter Wonder Nature Wands
Join Group for the East End and Nicole Roccaro from Artfully Long Island on Sunday, December 1 at 11:00 am to welcome the winter months by making a magical winter wand.
Maybe, if these wands are waved around, we'll get some snow this year!
The class will begin by searching the grounds at Downs Farm Preserve for the perfect stick to make a winter wand. Then attendees will gather at the picnic table where there will be yarn, ribbons, beads, buttons, and more to create unique and magical, winter inspired, nature wands.
Make sure to dress accordingly because the class will be outdoors. Bring a blanket if you want to sit on the ground (weather permitting).
There is a $10 non-refundable materials fee payable to Nicole through Venmo @nicole-roccaro
Questions? Email Group outreach director Taralynn Reynolds at treynolds@eastendenvironment.org
Meet Santa Experience & Pony Rides at The Little Red Barn
Head to The Little Red Barn in Jamesport on Sunday, Dec. 1 to ride a pony and meet Santa.
$20/first child, $5 each addtl. child
While you’re there, take photos against the Holiday Selfie Barn or stay for a farm animal visit.
Call or text Kate at 631-566-1690 for more info or to book!