A puppet of businessman and philanthropist Ward Melville at the Stony Brook Village Holiday Festival's Legends & Spies Puppets Processional. Photo by Heidi Sutton
The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO)’s 42nd Annual Holiday Festival will return on Sunday, December 5th from noon to 6 p.m. at the Stony Brook Village Center, 111 Main St., Stony Brook with Santa, performances, displays, activities and more. This is an entirely free event.
Photo from WMHO
The festival will feature music from WALK 97.5 throughout the day, Wiggs Optician’s Holiday Train Display, carolers, a performance from Roseland Dance Studio and a petting zoo. The Bethel AME Choir will be returning to help brighten spirits with a performance.
Children can write letters to Santa and mail them at the Stony Brook Post Office in the red “Mail for Santa” mailbox as soon as November 22. Letters can be mailed to Santa through the season.
WMHO’s Youth Corps Santa Fund fundraiser will include a scavenger hunt with the chance to win Stony Brook Village Center gift certificates, Discovery Cruise tickets and other prizes. All proceeds will be donated to Long Island Adolescent to benefit children in need over the holidays.
Photo from WMHO
While the festivities are in full swing, festival goers can participate in the Holiday Tree Festival by voting for their favorite trees as they will be decorated that day. Ballots can be found in all establishments in Stony Brook Village. Voting will take place from December 5 to December 20.
At 5:30pm, Santa will arrive on a holiday float, and with some children from the community, will light the holiday tree on the Village Green.
The sponsors of the 42nd Annual Holiday Festival and the 42nd Annual Holiday Tree Competition are Roosevelt Investments, Damianos Realty Group, GSE Dynamics, LIDL, Central Semiconductor Corp., The Suffolk Center for Speech and Myofunctional Therapy and Armor Corporation.
For more information about the Holiday Festival, the WMHO Youth Corps Santa Fund or the WMHO, call (631) 751-2244.
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Founded in 1939, WMHO is a not-for-profit corporation that develops and fosters community enrichment through cultural and educational experiences. WMHO accomplishes this by enhancing and interpreting its historic and environmentally sensitive properties and by utilizing state-of-the-art technology. For more information, please visit www.wmho.org
The St. James Fire Department Engine Company No. 1 will hold its 2nd annual St. James Community Holiday Gift & Toy Drive-Thru on Saturday, December 4 at Gyrodyne/Flowerfield in St. James from noon to 4 p.m. Visitors will enter via the entrance on Route 25A. Donations of an unwrapped toy or gift card are requested.
This year, multiple St. James organizations are collaborating on the event. The organizations are as follows:
St. James Fire Department Engine Co. 1
Celebrate St. James
Troop 7 Boy Scouts
Smithtown High School East Leadership
Smithtown High School East Chamber Choir
Veterans Recovery Coalition
St. James Girl Scouts Troop
St. James Civic Association
Smithtown Food Pantry
Gyrodyne/Flowerfield
Live holiday music will be performed by John Zollo, lead singer of The Dedications, as well as performances by the Smithtown High School East Chamber Choir.
Santa will make an appearance on a Fire Engine with a mailbox handy for children to drop off their letters. All donations will be distributed by the Smithtown Township Emergency Food Pantry to families and children in the community.
Toy donations can also be dropped off at TD Bank, 621 Lake Avenue, St. James, during business hours. Gift cards can be mailed to: St. James Holiday Gift & Toy Drive, c/o Celebrate St. James, 459 Lake Avenue, St. James, NY 11780. In the event of bad weather, the event will be held on Sunday, December 5th.
Celebrate St. James welcomes award-winning musician, recording artist and author Mick Moloney to the St. James Community Cultural Arts Center, 176 Second St., St. Jameson Friday, Dec. 3 from 7 to 9 p.m. Moloney will present an informative talk titled Exploring Our Roots — Vaudeville and Tin Pan Alley on the wonderful Irish and Jewish collaborations that contribute to the history of musical theater. Donation of $25, $20 seniors. Refreshments will be served. For reservations, call 631-984-0201.
DO YOU WANT TO BUILD A SNOWMAN?
'Frozen Jr.' is now playing at the Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts. Photo by Courtney Braun
Programs
A to Z Scavenger Hunt
The Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor presents an A to Z Scavenger Hunt on Nov. 26 between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Hunt around the hatchery and aquarium in search of a different item starting with each letter of the alphabet. Admission is $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 children. Call 516-692-6768.
Polar Express screening
The Port Jefferson Station-Terryville Chamber of Commerce will host screenings of The Polar Express in the Chamber Train Car, corner of Nesconset Highway and Route 112, Port Jefferson Station on Fridays, Nov. 26, Dec. 3, 10 and 17 at 6 p.m.; Saturdays, Nov. 27, Dec. 11 and 18 at noon, 3 and 6 p.m.; and Sunday, Dec. 5 at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. $15 per person includes popcorn, a cookie and hot cocoa. To reserve your tickets, visit www.pjstchamber.com.
Family Wampum Workshop
The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor presents a Family Wampum Workshop on Nov. 27 at 1 p.m. and again at 2 p.m. Did you know some of the finest Wampum beads were historically created from the shells often found along Long Island’s coasts? Discover this ancient craft and learn what it continues to mean to Indigenous Long Islanders. Create a wampum-style beaded accessory of your own to keep. Recommended for ages 7+; younger with adult help. Admission plus $10 participant. Call 367-3418.
Crafternoons
Visit the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor during the month of November and December and enjoy seasonal, self-serve crafts in their workshop. Free with admission of $6 adults, $5 kids/seniors. Call 367-3418.
Backpack Adventures
Join the staff at Sunken Meadow State Park, Route 25A and Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park for a nature experiment adventure on Nov. 28 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. And everything you need will be right on your back! You’ll be loaned a backpack filled with fun, interesting experiments to complete together as you explore the park. $4 per person. Advance reservations required by visiting Eventbrite.com and searching for #NatureEdventures. For more information, call 581-1072.
A Visit with Mailman Mark
Save the date! The Miller Place-Mount Sinai Historical Society presents A Visit with Mailman Mark on Dec. 5 from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Children are invited to bring their pre-written letters for Santa to the old Miller Place Post Office at 75 North Country Road, Miller Place where Mailman Mark will send them to the North Pole. Enjoy refreshments, a vintage fire truck, crafts and story time. Each child will receive a letter from Santa delivered to their home. $12 per child. To register, mail a check to MPMSHS, P.O. Box 723, Miller Place, NY 11764. For more information, call 476-5742.
Theater
‘Barnaby Saves Christmas’
The holidays have arrived at Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson with Barnaby Saves Christmas from Nov. 20 to Dec. 26 with a sensory sensitive performance on Nov. 21. Come join Santa, Barnaby, Franklynne and all of their friends for a wonderful holiday treat. As Santa’s littlest elf and his reindeer friend set off on their journey to save Christmas, they meet some new friends along the way and learn the true meaning of Christmas, Hanukkah, and the holiday season. All seats are $10. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
‘Frosty’
Tis the season! The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Frosty from Nov. 21 to Jan. 2. Join Jenny and Frosty on their chilly adventures as they try to save the town of Chillsville from mean old Ethel Pierpot and her evil machine that will melt all the snow. Jenny calls on her Mom, the mayor, and all of you to help her save her home, get Frosty to the North Pole, and make this holiday season a Winter Wonderland for one and all! Tickets are $20. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
‘Frozen Jr.’
Do you want to build a snowman? The Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown will present Frozen Jr. from Nov. 20 to Jan. 17. A story of true love and acceptance between sisters, Frozen Jr. expands upon the emotional relationship and journey between Princesses Anna and Elsa. When faced with danger, the two discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. With a cast of beloved characters and loaded with magic, adventure, and plenty of humor, Frozen Jr. is sure to thaw even the coldest heart! Tickets are $25. To order, call 724-3700 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.
ITS THE HOLIDAY SEASON
The 11th annual Huntington ‘Red, White & Blue’ Holiday Electric Light Parade on Nov. 27 will commence with the lighting of the 80 foot Christmas Tree on Wall Street and a special appearance by Santa Claus. Photo from Town of Huntington
Thursday 25
Happy Thanksgiving!
Thanksgiving Community Dinner
Word of Truth Church, 208 Jamaica Ave., Medford will host a free Thanksgiving Community Dinner event at 1 p.m. Please call Pastor Bruce to reserve your spot at 730-2976.
Friday 26
Country Parlor Holiday Show
Join Hallockville Museum Farm, 6038 Sound Ave., Riverhead for a Country Parlor Holiday Folk Art & Gift Show today from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Nov. 27 and 28 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and again from Dec. 4 and 5 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Held in the historic Naugles Barn, all items are handmade by local artisans and craftspeople including rustic Santas and tree ornaments, holiday home decor and gifts, baskets, jewelry and fine gifts including handmade pottery pieces, plus stocking stuffers for everyone on your list including local jams and preserves, hand made all-natural soaps and so much more. For more information, call 298-5292 or visit www.hallockville.org.
Northport Tree Lighting
The Village of Northport will hold a Tree Lighting Ceremony at Northport Village Park at the end of Main Street at 7 p.m. Enjoy caroling by the Northport Chorale, see Santa arrive by fire truck and enjoy free hot chocolate and cookies. Call 754-3905.
Friday Night Face Off
Long Island’s longest running Improv Comedy Show, Friday Night Face Off, returns to Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson tonight on the Second Stage at 9:30 p.m. Using audience suggestions, FNFO pits two teams of improvisers against each other in an all-out championship! Recommended for audiences 16 and up, due to adult content.Tickets are $15 at the door only. Call 928-9100.
Saturday 27
Country Parlor Holiday Show
See Nov. 26 listing.
Caumsett Hike
Join the staff at Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve, 25 Lloyd Harbor Road, Huntington for a Seashore Circular Hike from 9:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. During this hilly moderately paced walk through fields and woods to Caumsett’s shore, you’ll learn about geological and social factors that have influenced nature on Long Island. About a 4.5 mile walk. Bring water. $4 per person. Advance registration required by calling 423-1770.
JoJo Strong Jamboree
Ward Melville High School, Old Town Road, E. Setauket will host a JoJo Strong Jamboree, a 6 team Mens Lacrosse and 4 team Women’s Lacrosse Tournament featuring alumni teams from WMHS, Smithtown and Adelphi. Opening ceremony will be held 9:45 a.m. and first game starts at 10 a.m. Championship games begin at 2 p.m. for women and 2:30 p.m. for men with food trucks, concession stands and fastest shot contest. Free admission. For more information, visit www.jojojamboree.com.
Selden Craft & Gift Fair
Newfield High School, 145 Marshall Drive, Selden will host an outdoor Craft & Gift Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with over 75 vendors to kick off your holiday shopping. Process willbenefit the Middle Country Athletic Booster Club. Rain date is Nov. 28. For more information, call 846-1459.
Model Train Show
The Smithtown Historical Society presents a Model Train Show at the Frank Brush Barn, 211 E. Main St., Smithtown from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Operating layouts on display include Long Island HOTrack – HO Scale; Frank Kayz Trainz – Surprise and Trainville Hobby Depot – N Scale. Admission is $5 adults, $3 kids age 12 and under. Proceeds benefit the Smithtown Historical Society for the restoration of farm buildings and caring for the resident farm animals. For more information, call 524-0529.
The Holiday Market
The Three Village Historical Society, 93 North Country Road, Setauket and Gallery North, 90 North Country Road, Setauket and WUSB will kick off The Holiday Market, a series of outdoor holiday shopping events, today (Small Business Saturday) from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will feature over 40 vendors offering original paintings, prints, photography, ceramics, pottery, woodwork, glassware, artisan created jewelry, handmade crafts, decorations, and clothing along with music, children’s activities and food trucks. The event will continue on Dec. 4, 11 and 18. For more information, call 751-3730 or 751-2676.
Bright Lights at the Vanderbilt
Bright Lights, a holiday light spectacular, returns to the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport tonight and every Friday, Saturday and Sunday through Dec. 19 and Dec. 22 and 23 from 5 to 9 p.m. Enjoy themed displays, festive food, music, Santa and Friends and holiday lights during this holiday walk. Tickets are $25 adults, $15 children under 12, free for children under age 2. Order tickets online at www.vanderbiltmuseum.org.
Huntington Holiday Parade
The Town of Huntington’s 11th annual Red, White & Blue Electric Holiday Parade will kick off at 5:30 p.m. from the Big H Shopping Center on New York Avenue and will proceed north to Main Street and then west on Main Street to West Neck Road. Visitors can then attend a Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Wall Street followed by live entertainment and a visit from Santa. Call 351-3000.
Sunday 28
Country Parlor Holiday Show
See Nov. 26 listing.
Bright Lights at the Vanderbilt
See Nov. 27 listing.
JOLLY GOOD FUN! The annual Santa Parade returns to Port Jefferson Village on Nov. 28 at 3 p.m. File hoto by Kyle Barr
Port Jefferson Santa Parade
Join the Village of Port Jefferson and the Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce for their annual Santa Parade at 3 p.m. The parade route starts at the Port Jefferson Train Station, goes down Main Street to West Broadway and ends at Santa’s Workshop at the corner of Barnum Avenue. Come visit Santa Claus from 3:30 to 5 p.m. For more information, call 473-1414 or email [email protected].
Nesconset Holiday Lighting event
The Nesconset Chamber of Commerce presents its annual Holiday Lighting event at the Nesconset Gazebo, Nesconset at 3:30 p.m. Join them as they kick off the holiday season by lighting a Christmas Tree and Menorah, enjoy toasty refreshments & holiday music, and a surprise visit from Santa Claus. Questions? Call 672-5197.
Setauket Menorah Lighting
Village Chabad, 360 Nicolls Road, East Setauket invites the community to bring in Hanukkah at the tallest Menorah in Suffolk County at 3:30 p.m. with hot cocoa, latkes, music, a performance by Jester Jim for the kids and more. $5 per person. RSVP now at MyVillageChabad.com/NightOne.
PJS Menorah Lighting
North Shore Jewish Center and the Port Jefferson Station Terryville Chamber of Commerce will hold a Menorah Lighting at the Train Car at the corner of Nesconset Highway and Route 112, Port Jefferson Station from 4 to 5 p.m. (Access is on Rose Ave. from Canal Road. Call 821-1313.
Kings Park Menorah Lighting
The Kings Park Chamber of Commerce hosts a Menorah Lighting Ceremony at Veterans Plaza, 1 Church St., Kings Park at 11 a.m. Enjoy holiday music selections followed by Rabbi Abe as he retells the story of the meaning of Hanukkah and the lighting of the Menorah. Call 269-7678.
St. James Menorah Lighting
The St. James Chamber of Commerce hosts a Menorah Lighting at 5:30 p.m. at the Triangle at Lake Avenue, Moriches Road and Route 25A; continues for eight nights. Light refreshments will be served. Call 584-8510.
Grand Menorah Car Parade
Chabad of Mid-Suffolk, 318 Veterans Memorial Highway, Commack will host a Grand Menorah Car Parade at 6 p.m. to The Chai Center, 501 Vanderbilt Parkway, Dix Hills for a Grand Menorah Lighting Ceremony at 6:45 p.m. Enjoy music, a fire and juggling show, donuts, latkes and more. Free. To RSVP, call 351-8672 or visit www.TheChaiCenter.com/Chanukah.
Ronkonkoma Menorah Lighting
Join the Ronkonkoma Chamber of Commerce and Rabbi Rosenthanl of Temple B’nai Israel of Oakdale for a Menorah Lighting at Raynor Park, 174 Ronkonkoma Ave, Ronkonkoma on Nov. 28 at 7 p.m. Call 471-0302.
Monday 29
Huntington Menorah Lighting
The Town of Huntington will host its annual Big Menorah Lighting Ceremony at 5 p.m. on Wall Street between Gerard and Main Streets at the Huntington Holiday Spectacular. Call 351-3000.
Brookhaven Menorah Lighting
Join the Town of Brookhaven for its annual lighting of the Menorah at Town Hall, 1 Independence Hill, Farmingville at 6 p.m. Enjoy entertainment, hot latkes and donuts. For more information, call 451-6100
Tuesday 30
Greenlawn Menorah Lighting
Join the Greenlawn Civic Association at Harborfields Public Library, 31 Broadway, Greenlawn in celebrating Hanukkah with snacks, games, music and a Community Menorah Lighting on Nov. 30 at 6 p.m. Email greenlawncivic.org.
Wednesday 1
Festival of Trees
Visit the Festival of Trees, a month long extravaganza to kick off the holiday shopping season, on the second floor of the Port Jefferson Village Center, 101 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson today through Jan. 2 (except Dec. 25) from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Free. For more information, call 802-2160.
Smithtown Tree Lighting
The Town of Smithtown will host a Tree Lighting Ceremony at Town Hall, 99 W. Main St., Smithtown from 5 to 6:30 p.m. The holiday event will feature entertainment by local schools, balloon sculpting, music, food trucks, cookies and hot chocolate. Call 360-7512.
Thursday 2
Virtual Lunch & Learn
The Huntington Historical Society continues its virtual Lunch & Learn series with a presentation by Jeff Richman titled Building the Brooklyn Bridge at noon. The historian at Brooklyn’s Green-Wood Cemetery since 2007, Richman will discuss his fifth and latest book, Building the Brooklyn Bridge, 1869-1883: An Illustrated History with Images in 3D. Presentation will last 45 minutes with time for commentary and Q&A from participants. Suggested donation of $10. To register, visit www.huntingtonhistoricalsociety.org.
Film
‘Stillwater’
Northport Public Library, 151 Laurel Ave., Northport continues its Cinema at the Library series with a screening of Stillwater (Rated R) starring Matt Damon on Nov. 30 at 6 p.m. Followed by a discussion with Cinema Arts Centre co-director Dylan Skolnick. To register, call 261-6930.
Theater
‘White Christmas’
The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport continues its MainStage seasonwith White Christmas from Nov. 11 to Jan. 2, 2022. Based on the beloved film, this heartwarming adaptation follows vaudeville stars and veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis as they head to Vermont to pursue romance with a duo of beautiful singing sisters. This family classic features beloved songs by Irving Berlin including “Blue Skies,” “I Love A Piano,” “How Deep Is The Ocean” and the perennial favorite, White Christmas. Tickets range from $75 to $80 per person. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
‘A Christmas Carol’
Join Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson for the 37th annual production of A Christmas Carol from Nov. 13 to Dec. 26. Celebrate the season with Long Island’s own holiday tradition and broadwayworld.com winner for Best Play. Follow the miser Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey that teaches him the true meaning of Christmas — past, present and future. A complimentary sensory sensitive abridged performance will be held on Nov. 28 at 11 a.m. $20 tickets in November; December tickets are $35 adults, $28 seniors and students, $20 children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
‘Elf the Musical’
The Argyle Theater, 34 Main St., Babylon presents Elf the Musical through Jan. 2. Buddy, a young orphan, mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The would-be elf is raised, unaware that he is actually a human until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. This modern-day holiday classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner Elf. After all, the best way to spread Christmas Cheer is singing loud for all to hear! Tickets are priced from $40 to $79. Use Code: TIMES for $10 OFF* For more information, call 230-3500 or visit www.argyletheatre.com.
Vendors wanted
» Gallery North, 90 North Country Road, Setauket seeks vendors for its Holiday Market Fairs on Nov. 27, Dec. 4, Dec. 11 and Dec. 18. $75 for one market, $125 for two, $150 for three and $200 for four. To reserve a booth, visit www.gallerynorth.org or call 631-751-2676.
» Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown seeks exhibitors for its Holiday Party for Wildlife and Craft Market on Dec. 4 from 3 to 9 p.m. Looking for craft and food vendors. Spaces are $60 each. Call 631-979-6344 or email [email protected].
The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook presents the following events in December:
Wed. 12/1 Young at Heart: It’s the Holidays 1 PM
The Jazz Loft Trio will perform holiday music at the themed monthly series designed for those who
like their jazz in the afternoon.
Tickets: $10
Wed. 12/1. Jazz Loft Trio and Jam 7 PM
The Jazz Loft Trio performs at 7 PM followed by a jam at 8 PM.
Tickets: Arrive at 7 PM $10, Arrive at 8 PM $5
Thurs. 12/2 Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker Suite & Holiday Music 7 PM 12/2, 12/3, 12/4
Fri. 12/3 & 2 PM 12/4
Sat. 12/4
The 17 member Jazz Loft Big Band performs Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker Suite. Allan Harris, a soulful jazz vocalist, recording artist and guitarist joins the Band for holiday music.
Tickets: $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 students, $20 children, children under 5 free
Monday 12/6 Stony Brook University Blowage Big Band 7 PM
The SBU jazz band performs under the direction of trombonist Ray Anderson.
Tickets: $10 Free for SBU Staff and Students
Tues. 12/7 Nikhil Bartolomeo, Antonio Ciacca DMA Recitals 7 PM
The Jazz Loft will host two Doctor Of Music recitals. Nikhil Bartolomeo is a clarinetist and saxophonist. He will perform works of Barber, Blake, Bunch, D’Rivera and Smith.
The Antonio Ciacca Quartet features DMA student Antonio Ciacca on piano, Andy Farber on tenor sax, Jennifer Vincent on bass and Michele Carletti on drums.
Nikhil and Antonio are students in the Stony Brook University Jazz Studies Department.
Tickets are $10 and admission is free for SBU students and staff
Wed. 12/8 Jazz Loft Trio and Jam 7 PM
The Jazz Loft Trio performs at 7 PM followed by a jam at 8PM.
Tickets: Arrive at 7 PM $10, Arrive at 8 PM $5
Monday 12/13 Stony Brook Graduate Jazz Combos Concert 7 PM
Graduate students in music department of SBU perform in this jazz combos concert.
Tickets: $10 Free for SBU Staff and Students
Wed. 12/15. Jazz Loft Trio and Jam 7 PM
The Jazz Loft Trio performs at 7 PM followed by a jam at 8 PM.
Tickets: Arrive at 7 PM $10, Arrive at 8 PM $5
Thurs. 12/16 Bad Little Big Band Holiday Show 7 PM
The 12 member Bad Little Big Band led by pianist Rich Iacona will perform music of the season. Vocalist Madeline Kole accompanies the band.
Tickets: $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 students, $20 children, children under 5 free
Friday 12/17 Ray Anderson’s Seasonal Solstice Party 7 PM
Acclaimed trombonist Ray Anderson is known to push the limits of his instrument. His performances are always spirited and fun.
Tickets: $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 students, $20 children, children under 5 free
Sat. 12/18 Interplay Jazz Orchestra’s Family Show 1PM
The 17 member Interplay Jazz Orchestra performs a family friendly afternoon holiday show.
Tickets: $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 students, $20 children, children under 5 free
Sat. 12/18 Tom Manuel’s Eggnog Romp 6 PM
Cornetist and Jazz Loft founder, Tom Manuel leads his ensemble of musicians in performing music of the season.
Tickets: $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 students, $20 children, children under 5 free
Wed. 12/22 Jazz Loft Trio and Jam 7 PM
The Jazz Loft Trio performs at 7 PM followed by a jam at 8 PM.
Tickets: Arrive at 7 PM $10, Arrive at 8 PM $5
Thurs. 12/23 Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker Suite & Holiday Music. 7 PM
The 17 member Jazz Loft Big Band performs Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker Suite. Grammy winning vocalist Nicole Zuraitis joins the band for holiday music.
Tickets: $35 adults, $30 seniors, $25 students, $20 children, children under 5 free
Wed. 12/29 Jazz Loft Trio and Jam 7 PM
The Jazz Loft Trio performs at 7 PM followed by a jam at 8 PM.
Tickets: Arrive at 7 PM $10, Arrive at 8 PM $5
For tickets, call 751-1895 or visit www,thejazzloft.org.
Please note: The Jazz Loft will be closed in January to line up the great music it will be presenting in 2022.
Have a happy and safe holiday season and listen to a lot of live music!
Local elected officials join WMHO chairman and president, Richard Rugen and Gloria Rocchio and the Minuses' daughter Cynthia Ann Murphy at the ribbon cutting. Photo by Rita J. Egan
A near hurricane couldn’t keep T. Bayles Minuse Mill Pond Park from being a focal point of Stony Brook village.
Photo by Rita J. Egan
After Tropical Storm Isaias ripped through Long Island in August of 2020, the park, which runs adjacent to Avalon Nature Preserve, needed several repairs. The storm knocked down more than a dozen trees and destroyed the park’s braille engraved handrails, the borders maintaining the park’s gardens, the walkways along the pond and more.
At a dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony Nov. 18, The Ward Melville Heritage Organization presented the first phase of rehabilitation, which included new pathways and memorial stones. The second phase will include the repairing of the braille handrails and sensory gardens on the north side of the 1-acre park by Harbor Road.
At the dedication, Richard Rugen, WMHO chairman and a retired chiropractor, remembered Minuse who was one of his first patients. Minuse was the right-hand man of philanthropist Ward Melville when the village was being built and in the early days of Stony Brook Community Fund, which is now known as WMHO. Rugen described Minuse as “a straight-arrow guy.”
He also remembered Minuse’s wife, Elinore, who he described as having perfect posture and with a crown of white hair. He added she was a lady who was equally comfortable arguing a bill with the local garbage carter and could have high tea with the queen.
He said he believed the Minuses would be pleased with the renovated park: “In my heart, I know if they had the capacity to look down on us today, they would both be happy and proud to see the rededication of the T. Bayles Minuse Mill Pond Park in his honor.”
Photo by Rita J. Egan
Rugen added that WMHO was grateful for the residents and businesses that contributed to the fundraiser to restore the park, which was originally dedicated to Minuse Dec. 6, 1981.
Gloria Rocchio, WMHO president, said soon after she and her husband moved to Stony Brook, more than 40 years ago, Minuse announced he was retiring, and she interviewed for his job. She was one out of six or seven interviewees. Rocchio added that the board voted unanimously to hire her. Minuse stayed on as a consultant for a year and to help guide Rocchio through the various responsibilities of running the organization.
“I’ll never forget that man,” she said.
Rocchio added that recently WMHO staff began scanning documents, which will soon be on the organization’s website, and have learned more about Minuse.
Joining the WMHO trustees for the ribbon-cutting ceremony were state Sen. Mario Mattera (R-St. James), state Assemblyman Steve Englebright (D-Setauket), Suffolk County Legislator Kara Hahn (D-Setauket), Town of Brookhaven Supervisor Ed Romaine (R), Head of the Harbor Mayor Douglas Dahlgard and Cynthia Ann Murphy, the Minuses’ daughter, and her family.
The Town of Smithtown will premiere its Veterans Documentary, entitled War Stories, on Sunday, November 21 at 6 p.m. at the Smithtown Center for Performing Arts, 2 East Main St., Smithtown. The documentary focuses on local residents who enlisted to serve in the US Armed Forces during war time, from World War II to Present Day.
“I’m forever grateful to the men and women all across the Country who have served in our US Armed Forces. This began as an interview process, so we could document and preserve the stories of patriotism, camaraderie and strength of our brave hometown heroes, for future generations. But it has become so much more. This is our way of saying Thank You for Your Service to our local heroes… for we owe them everything,” said Supervisor Ed Wehrheim.
Tickets are free and members of the public are encouraged to attend the premiere to show support and gratitude for the Men and Women within our community who served in protection of our Nation’s freedoms. Residents are encouraged to bring non-perishable items for donation, which will be delivered to the United Veterans Beacon House Pantry.
The Town began production of the Veterans documentary, interviewing service members from World War II, through to modern day conflicts. Filming for the documentary began in 2019 on Veterans Day, November 19th. The film is dedicated in memory of two World War II Veterans; Eddy Reddy and Howard Laderwager, who were filmed for the documentary, but have recently passed away.
Make a tiled mosaic menorah at the Whaling Museum on Nov. 21.
Programs
Turkey Workshop
The Atelier at Flowerfield, St. James will host a Thanksgiving Turkey Painting Workshop with Miss Linda on Nov. 20 from 10 a.m. to noon and again from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. For ages 5 to 11. Fee is $50 per child. To register, call 250-9009 or visit www.theatelierflowerfield.org.
Shapes of Nature
Sunken Meadow State Park, Route 25A and Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park presents a program for children ages 3 to 5, Shapes, on Nov. 20 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Explore the natural world around us as children and their parents connect with nature through short walks, animal visitors, and crafts. $4 per child. To register, please visit Eventbrite.com and search for #NatureEdventures. For more information, call 581-1072.
Marshmallows, Cocoa and Crafts
Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, E. Setauket presents a workshop for children ages 4 to 9 titled Marshmallows, Cocoa and Crafts on Nov. 20 from 3 to 5 p.m. Create your very own cocoa cups, make a snowy time marshmallow craft, take a tour of the farm, and gather by a warm fire for seasonal stories! $40 per child with one parent. To register, call 689-8172 or visit www.bennersfarm.com.
Family Menorah Workshop
The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor will host a Family Menorah Workshop on Nov. 21 at 2 p.m. Explore the importance of oil through the ages, from whale oil to olive oil. Compare historic oil lanterns in the museum’s collection, and get creative designing a tiled mosaic menorah to light up your home this holiday! Admission plus $10 participant. Call 367-3418 for more information.
Sprouts & Friends
Town of Brookhaven’s New Village Recreation Center, 20 Wireless Road, Centereach presents an interactive holiday program for children ages 6 months to 3 years with a caregiver on Wednesdays, Nov. 24, Dec. 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Children will enjoy a safe and creative way to learn and move through music. Bring a blanket, mat or beach towel. $35 for 6-week session. Registration is required by calling 732-2338.
Self-Serve Family Crafts
Visit the Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor during the month of November and enjoy seasonal, self-serve crafts in their workshop. Free with admission of $6 adults, $5 kids/seniors. Call 367-3418.
Theater
‘Barnaby Saves Christmas’
The holidays have arrived at Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson with Barnaby Saves Christmas from Nov. 20 to Dec. 26 with a sensory sensitive performance on Nov. 21. Come join Santa, Barnaby, Franklynne and all of their friends for a wonderful holiday treat. As Santa’s littlest elf and his reindeer friend set off on their journey to save Christmas, they meet some new friends along the way and learn the true meaning of Christmas, Hanukkah, and the holiday season. All seats are $10. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.
‘Frosty’
‘Frosty’
Tis the season! The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport presents Frosty from Nov. 21 to Jan. 2. Join Jenny and Frosty on their chilly adventures as they try to save the town of Chillsville from mean old Ethel Pierpot and her evil machine that will melt all the snow. Jenny calls on her Mom, the mayor, and all of you to help her save her home, get Frosty to the North Pole, and make this holiday season a Winter Wonderland for one and all! Tickets are $20. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com.
‘Frozen Jr.’
Do you want to build a snowman? The Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 E. Main St., Smithtown will present Frozen Jr. from Nov. 20 to Jan. 17. A story of true love and acceptance between sisters, Frozen Jr. expands upon the emotional relationship and journey between Princesses Anna and Elsa. When faced with danger, the two discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. With a cast of beloved characters and loaded with magic, adventure, and plenty of humor, Frozen Jr. is sure to thaw even the coldest heart! Tickets are $25. To order, call 724-3700 or visit www.smithtownpac.org.
A CLASS ACT
World-renowned pianist Vassily Primakov joins North Shore Pro Musica for a chamber music concert at the Long Island Museum on Nov. 21. Photo from LIM
All phone numbers are in area code 631 unless otherwise noted.
Friday Nov. 19
An evening of classical music
The Sound Symphony Orchestra opens their 2021-2022 season with a classical music concert at Comsewogue High School, 565 N. Bicycle Path, Port Jefferson Station The Sound Symphony Orchestra at 7 p.m. Directed by Dorothy Savitch, selections include Beethoven’s Fidelio Overture and Dvorak’s powerful Symphony No. 7. Tickets are $15 for general admission and $10 for seniors and students at the door. Children under 12, Veterans, and Active Military are admitted FREE with identification. Masks are required at all times while in the building. For more information, visit www.soundsymphony.org.
Drumming Legends
The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook presents Drumming Legends, a concert featuring drummers Ronnie Zito, Jackie Wilson, Darrell Smith and Chris Smith along with Houston Person on tenor saxophone, Steve Salerno on guitar and Tom Manuel on cornet, at 7 p.m. Tickets are $30 adults, $25 seniors, $20 students, $15 children. To order, visit www.thejazzloft.org. For more information, call 751-1895.
Full Moon Hike
Join the staff at Sunken Meadow State Park, Route 25A and Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park for a Full Moon Hike along the beach from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Test out your night vision and discover some fun facts about the moon! $4 per person. Reservations required by visiting Eventbrite.com and searching for #NatureEdventures. For more information, call 581-1072.
Saturday Nov. 20
Garage Sale fundraiser
Celebrate St. James will hold a garage sale fundraiser today, Nov. 14, 20 and 21 at the St. James Community Cultural Arts Center, 176 Second St., St. James from 10 a.m. to 4 pm. Lots of treasures including books, lamps, sporting goods, lightly used clothing, collectibles, fishing equipment and more. For more information, call 984-0201.
Scandinavian Bazaar
Loyal Lodge #252 Sons of Norway hosts its annual Scandinavian Bazaar at St. James Lutheran Church Parish Hall, 230 Second Ave., St. James (new location) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. featuring Norwegian cheeses; chocolates; baked goods including Julekake, Sostekake, Krumkake and almond cake; t-shirts, jewelry, nisse, decals, coffee Mugs, and decorative items. Enjoy a delicious Scandinavian lunch including Lapskaus, yellow pea soup, Smorbrod, Norwegian waffles, raffle baskets and view a 24-foot Viking ship.Questions? Call 862-8017.
Brick Studio
Brick Studio Open House
The Brick Studio and Gallery, 2 Flowerfield, Suite 57 & 60, St. Jameswill hold an open house today and Nov, 21 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The community is invited to browse the Gallery and find hand-made pottery created by their members. Enjoy chamber music, raffles and light refreshments. For more information, call 833-THE-BRICK or visit www.thebrickstudio.org.
Fall Craft & Gift Fair
Hauppauge High School, 500 Lincoln Blvd., Hauppauge will host its annual Fall Craft & Gift Fair today and Nov. 21 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to benefit the Hauppauge High School PTSA. The indoor event will feature over 75 exhibitors with arts, crafts and gift items. See hand made textiles, jewelry, painted wood signs, painted flower pots, florals, soft sculpture, totes, pillows, birdhouses, chocolates, soy candles, organic soaps, bath & body butters and much more. Refreshments served by the Hauppauge HS Robotics Club. For more information, call 846-1459.
Fine Art & Craft Fair
Walt Whitman High School, 301 West Hills Road, Huntington Station hosts its 20th annual Crafts Fair from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 100 fine art and craft vendors —the perfect place to find one of a kind items for everyone on your holiday shopping list. Call 549-8582.
Caleb Smith Hike
Join the staff at Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, 581 W. Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown for a Trail Less Traveled Walk from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Enjoy some refreshing autumn air as you hike to the northeastern edge of the park with its beautiful woodland scenery. This is a moderate level hike with some hills. Bring water and good walking shoes/boots. $4 per person. To register, call 265-1054.
Brookhaven Polar Plunge
The Town of BrookhaVen and Special Olympics New York will hold the 12th annual “Polar Plunge: Freezin’ for a Reason” at Cedar Beach, 200 Harbor Road, Mount Sinai with small groups at 11:30 a.m. and larger groups at 12:30 p.m. Register at www.polarplungeny.org\brookhaven.
BALLETX heads to SBU
Stony Brook University’s Staller Center for the Arts, 100 Nicolls Road, Stony Brook presents BalletX on the Main Stage at 8 p.m. Co-founded in 2005 by Artistic & Executive Director Christine Cox and choreographer Matthew Neenan,Philadelphia’s premier contemporary ballet dance company challenges the boundaries of classical ballet by encouraging formal experimentation while preserving rigorous technique. Tickets range from $42 to $58. To order, call 632-2787 or visit www.stallercenter.com.
Sunday Nov. 21
Garage Sale fundraiser
See Nov. 20 listing.
Brick Studio Open House
See Nov. 20 listing.
Fall Craft & Gift Fair
See Nov. 20 listing.
Northport Walking Tour
A Society favorite has returned! Join the Northport Historical Society, 215 Main St., Northport for a lively, informative, and socially-distanced walking tour of Northport’s historic Main Street business district from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Using storytelling and historic photos from our collection, your guide will make the past come alive! Masks are required. Tickets are $7 per person. To register, visit www.northporthistorical.org.
Pianist Alexander Wu in concert
Northport Public Library, 151 Laurel Ave., Northport welcomes pianist Alexander Wu in concert at 2 p.m. Enjoy American folk songs and spirituals, early popular jazz, Hollywood film scores and Latin American classics from Mr. Wu’s debut solo CD, Rhythm Road Across the Americas. To register, call 261-6930.
An afternoon of chamber music
North Shore Pro Musica will present a live chamber music program featuring world renowned pianist Vassily Primakov at the Long Island Museum 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook. The performance will take place in the Carriage Museum’s Gillespie Room at 5 p.m. with a $20 suggested donation. All attendees are required to be fully vaccinated and to provide proof of such, to attend this live program. For more information, call 761-0066 or visit www.longislandmuseum.org.
Monday Nov. 22
Virtual Movie Trivia Night
Do you know a lot about movies? Well here’s your chance to prove it! Join the Cinema Arts Centre in Huntington for a virtual Movie Trivia Night at 8 p.m. Hosted by Dan French, the winning team will get up to four CAC Gift Cards (1 per team member) and bragging rights. Tickets are $10 per team, $7 members. Visit www.cinemaartscentre.org to register. Questions? Email [email protected].
Tuesday Nov. 23
No events listed for this day.
Wednesday Nov. 24
An Evening of Jazz
The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook presents a concert by the Jazz Loft Trio from 7 to 8 p.m. followed by a jam session. Arrive at 7 p.m. $10, arrive at 8 p.m. $5. To purchase tickets, visit www.thejazzloft.org. For more information, call 751-1895.
Thursday Nov. 25
Happy Thanksgiving!
Thanksgiving Community Dinner
Word of Truth Church, 208 Jamaica Ave., Medford will host a free Thanksgiving Community Dinner event at 1 p.m. Please call Pastor Bruce to reserve your spot at 730-2976.
Film
‘Here Today’
Join Comsewogue Public Library, 170 Terryville Road, Port Jefferson Station for a free screening of “Here Today” starring Billy Crystal and Tiffany Haddish on Nov. 24 at 2 p.m. Advance registration required by calling 928-1212, option #3 or by visiting www.cplib.org.
Theater
‘All Together Now!’
Star Playhouse, Stage 74, at the Suffolk Y JCC, 74 Hauppauge Road, Commack presents Music Theatre International’s “All Together Now!,” a global event celebrating local theatre, on Nov. 13 at 8 p.m. The venue will be joining thousands of theatrical organizations around the globe for this one-night only performance. The event will highlight songs from beloved Broadway musicals, and will feature appearances by Broadway stars in addition to local talent. Tickets are $55 in advance, $60 at the door. To order, visit www.starplayhouse.com or call 462-9800 x-136.
‘White Christmas’
The John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport continues its MainStage seasonwith White Christmas from Nov. 11 to Jan. 2, 2022. Based on the beloved film, this heartwarming adaptation follows vaudeville stars and veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis as they head to Vermont to pursue romance with a duo of beautiful singing sisters. This family classic features beloved songs by Irving Berlin including “Blue Skies,” “I Love A Piano,” “How Deep Is The Ocean” and the perennial favorite, White Christmas. Tickets range from $75 to $80 per person. To order, call 261-2900 or visit www.engemantheater.com. See review on page B17.
‘A Christmas Carol’
Join Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson for the 37th annual production of A Christmas Carol from Nov. 13 to Dec. 26. Celebrate the season with Long Island’s own holiday tradition and broadwayworld.com winner for Best Play. Follow the miser Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey that teaches him the true meaning of Christmas — past, present and future. A complimentary sensory sensitive abridged performance will be held on Nov. 28 at 11 a.m. $20 tickets in November; December tickets are $35 adults, $28 seniors and students, $20 children ages 5 to 12. To order, call 928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. See review on page B11.
Vendors wanted
» Gallery North, 90 North Country Road, Setauket seeks vendors for its Holiday Market Fairs on Nov. 27, Dec. 4, Dec. 11 and Dec. 18. $75 for one market, $125 for two, $150 for three and $200 for four. To reserve a booth, visit www.gallerynorth.org or call 631-751-2676.
» Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown seeks exhibitors for its Holiday Party for Wildlife and Craft Market on Dec. 4 from 3 to 9 p.m. Looking for craft and food vendors. Spaces are $60 each. Call 631-979-6344 or email [email protected].
The Holiday Market
Tickets are free and members of the public are encouraged to attend the premiere to show support and gratitude for the Men and Women within our community who served in protection of our Nation’s freedoms. Residents are encouraged to bring non-perishable items for donation, which will be delivered to the United Veterans Beacon House Pantry.
Turkey Workshop
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