On Friday, September 23, 2011, we will officially welcome the fall here on Long Island and kiss summer goodbye–although for many the unofficial end of summer is Labor Day, which falls on September 5, followed by the first day of school.
That’s right, we said it. The first day of school.
So, what does it all mean? Will this winter be another Snowpocalypse-filled extravaganza? Well, we have no idea. But here are a few things you can expect in the meantime here on our wonderful little island:
1. Long Island Bluegrass Festival–August 20
The LI Bluegrass Festival is an 8-hour celebration of the best of American Bluegrass music. Headlining on the main stage are The Special Consensus, a four-person acoustic bluegrass band from Chicago who mix in elements of Chicago blues, swing, newgrass, and country music. Their credits include a standing ovation at the Grand Ole Opry at Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium, European tours, and performances with symphony orchestras. Also appearing will be Long Island’s favorite Buddy Merriam & Back Roads, Nate Leath & Danny Knicely, Vincent Cross & Good Company, The Long Island Bluegrass Quartet, Foggy Mountain Hilton, Free Grass Union, and Mike Burns. There will also be a special tribute to Bill Monroe, the father of Bluegrass Music. This year on the Children’s Stage will be Katie’s Puppets, Mike Soloway, and Jack Licitra. Several workshops will take place on the Long Island Tradition Music Association (LITMA) Stage in Mandolin, Banjo, Fiddle, Guitar, and Old-Time Banjo. There will be a food court, craft vendors and much more!
2. 20th Annual Seafood Festival –August 27 & 28
The Long Island Maritime Museum will host its 20th Seafood Festival this year in celebration of Long Island’s South Shore. Located on the waterfront of the museum, there will be fresh seafood, activities, rides and performances throughout the weekend for the entire family. You can even sail aboard the museum’s historic Oyster Sloop Priscilla.
3. Long Beach Pro Surf Contest –Opens September 1
Long Beach is about to become a lot cooler in the next couple of weeks and we’re not talking about the incoming chilly weather. Some of the best surfers from around the world are hitting our beaches for the Quiksilver Pro New York Surf Competition in Long Beach and they are bringing with them BMX and skateboarding pros, as well as a music lineup that includes The Flaming Lips and Girl Talk. Oh, and did we mention it’s free?
