Free & Fun Things to Do on Memorial Day Weekend with Kids: Hamptons & North Fork
Finally, Memorial Day Weekend, warmer weather, and the kick-off of summer in the Hamptons. It's time to get outdoors, hit the beach, ride a bike and embark on a new adventure. From farmers' markets, to art shows, to a charity kite fly on the beach, there is something for every family. Following is a sampling of the best kid-friendly events being offered from Manorville to Montuak to help you enjoy the first long weekend of summer.
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Grand Opening Weekend: Shinnecock Museum and Wikun Village - Southampton
Come and experience the grand opening of the new exhibit: Learn our Past, Share our Story, about the native Shinnecock people who have inhabited Long Island for over 10,000 years. Activities include tours, singing & dancing, activities for kids and traditional skills demonstrations. FREE
6th Annual Montauk Green Art Show - Montauk
Hosted by the Montauk Arts Association, this huge art show takes over the Village Green with local artisans displaying paintings, photography, mixed media, jewelry, sculpture, ceramics and glass creations. Rain or shine. FREE
South Hose Spring Carnival—Greenport
May 23-May 27, 6pm-11pm
Greenport Fire Department's annual carnival at the Polo Grounds on Moore's Lane. Rides, games, and food. Pay one price ride specials.
Saturday, May 25
Bridgehampton Fine Art and Craft Show - Bridgehampton
Arts and crafts shows abound in the Hamptons over the summer, but this is one of the best. The South Fork Craftsmen's Guild sponsors this annual event, in its seventh year, featuring artists from all over the East End. The juried show features painters, photographers, jewelry makers and wood-workers. FREE
Kites for a Cure - Southampton
Sponsored by Uniting Against Lung Cancer, Kites for a Cure is a family kite fly to benefit lung cancer research. Your donation entitles you to a high quality kite that can be decorated on site and flown over the ocean. The annual event draws more than 1,000 kite-flyers and friends to Cooper Beach where live music plays and refreshments are available. Bring a blanket, enjoy the music and fly a kite for a good cause. $30 donation
Seussical at Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center - Westhampton Beach
Adapted from the Broadway show, this national touring company is a kid-friendly version of Dr. Seuss's best-loved stories. Tickets $15 - $25
Collectible Car Show - Riverhead
The family-friendly Martha Clara Vineyard hosts a collectible car show to benefit the Wounded Warrior Project. Wine tastings, music, auctions, food and more. $5 for adults, kids under 12 are free
Pollack Family Drip Painting - East Hampton
The Pollock-Krasner House and Study Center is a wonderful place to experience the abstract master's colorful work up close. Children's book author Joyce Raimondo will lead tours of the home and studio. Afterward, families can partake in a messy art project to create their own drip paintings. Dress for a mess. Advance registration required. $35 per person
Story Time - Bridgehampton
A rainy Saturday morning? Don't despair. Head over the Main Library for story and craft time. FREE
Westhampton Beach Farmers Market - Westhampton Beach
Every Saturday in Summer, from 9am - 1pm, over 45 local farmers, growers and producers sell their wares in the WHB Village Parking lot. There is always music, plus educational programs and activities for kids. FREE
5th Annual New Suffolk Chowder Fest - New Suffolk
Saturday, May 25, 12-3pm
Head to the Galley Ho at First and Main for locally prepared chowders, barbecue, live music with RockIT Science, street art by Rod Tyron, children’s activities and games, face painting and a huge perennial sale, all at the site of the U.S. Navy’s first submarine base. All proceeds go toward the restoration and revitalization of the Waterfront property for community benefit. Adults, $18, $20 at door. Children under 12 eat FREE. Buy tickets in advance.
Sunday, May 26
Third Annual Blessing of the Boards - Montauk
Bring your surfboard, stand-up paddle board, boogie board or skate-board to St. Therese of Lisieux Church for this annual event. Maybe you'll get a little extra help in catching the big waves, and staying safe this summer. FREE
Southampton Farmers Market - Southampton
Voted "Best Farmers Market of 2012" by Dan's Paper's Readers Choice, this massive farmer's market features local growers and producers, artisans, chefs and bakers. Performances by local talent as well as kids' activities make it a fun outing for the whole family. FREE
Origami Seedling Planter - Amagansett
Kids over age 8 are invited to make a biodegradable planter out of newspaper and sunflower seeds. Just add water and sunshine. Call or stop by for reservation. FREE
East End Arts' Community Mosaic Street Painting Festival - Riverhead
This 17th annual event draws 5,000 local residents and artists for a fun-filled day of live music, street painting, arts and crafts, gourmet food trucks, face painting and more. Rain date - May 27. FREE