Kids

By Bill Landon

The craft fair at The Shoppes at East Wind in Wading River was in full swing Sunday, May 4 where local craft vendors flocked to showcase their wares. The day featured a bounce house for the kids and the ever-popular carousel, a family favorite that was met with warmer temperatures.

Craft Fair Weekends continue at The Shoppes at East Wind on June 7 & 8, July 12 & 13, August 2 & 3 and September 6 & 7, October 4 & 5, and November 1 & 2 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

If interested in becoming a vendor, contact  [email protected] or click here.

 

By Greg Catalano

Benner’s Farm in East Setauket hosted easter egg hunts on April 18, 19 and 20. Children, baskets in hand, enjoyed the beautiful weather as they eagerly searched for the hidden eggs, toured the working farm and met the Easter Bunny.

– Photos by Greg Catalano

By Julianne Mosher

If you have a little one in your life, My Little Bestie is about to be your little bestie.

The store, which opened in East Setauket in November of last year, is celebrating six months of being in business and owner Sara DiFalco said it’s been one of the best rides she has ever been on.

Located at 248 Main Street, the shop has two purposes: In the front, a colorful boutique of everything a mama and child needs decorate shelves and displays. As you head to the back of the store, racks of clothing, accessories and toys, donated by other mamas and caregivers, are available for purchase—basically a tiny thrift store with brand names to help families who may not be able to afford luxury. 

“I love thrifting,” DiFalco laughed, “But I also love new stuff.”

To combine the best of both worlds, DiFalco’s business model allows families to donate bags of their preowned items. There are specific criterion, like no stains, holes or heavy wear, and it can’t be from a retailer of fast fashion like Old Navy, Target or Walmart. After DiFalco examines and approves each piece, the donator is given 50% off items in the store for the next 30 days.

“It’s really nice because our kids grow out of things and we never know what to do with them,” she said.

After the donation is made, then it’s time to shop for something new. Tote bags, book, puzzles, toys, home décor and clothing for mom, baby and child. DiFalco said that all the new clothing she sells is organically made by small batch retailers and are almost entirely eco-friendly.

“People tell me that they have never seen a store like this before that has luxury in the front and thrifting in the back,” she said. 

Originally from Toronto, Canada, DiFalco moved to Deer Park with her now-husband more than a decade ago. She worked in retail, but soon after having her daughter, who is now two years old, she decided she wanted to be her own boss. After searching the Island for the perfect spot to open a brick-and-mortar shop, she stumbled across Setauket and fell in love with the area.

“There’s nothing like this around and it’s so needed,” she said. 

Along with becoming her own boss and making her own schedule, DiFalco wanted to create a community for moms out there. Since opening My Little Bestie, she said many of her customers have become her friends, bonding over their love for shopping and embracing motherhood. DiFalco loves the North Shore so much, she and her family are moving to Smithtown this summer. 

Named for her daughter, Athena, who DiFalco says is her “little bestie,” the store has constant revolving inventory and a plentiful online shop to order from. 

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My LIttle Bestie is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed on Mondays. For more information, please call 631-800-9800 or visit www.mylittlebestie.shop.

Celebrate Astronomy Day at the Vanderbilt Museum on May 3. Photo courtesy of Vanderbilt Museum
PROGRAMS

Thankful Thursdays

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport continues its Thankful Thursdays series with a free family-friendly planetarium show titled Earth, Moon and Sun on May 1 at 7 p.m. After the show, an astronomy educator will invite you to look through a telescope at the night sky (weather permitting). Recommended for ages 8 and up. For complimentary tickets, visit www.vanderbiltmuseum.org. 

Books in the Barn

Children ages 3 to 5 with a parent/giver are invited to Books in the Barn, a free storytime event about farms, barns and animals at the Smithtown Historical Society’s Franklin O. Arthur Farm, 245 East Main St., Smithtown on May 2 from 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. To register, call the Smithtown Library at 631-360-2480, ext. 213. 

Spring Festival at the Hatchery

Rescheduled from April 26. Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery, 1660 Route 25A, Cold Spring Harbor presents a Spring Festival fundraiser on May 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with kid’s fishing, food, music, games, environmental exhibitors and live animal encounters. Admission is $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 children ages 3 to 12. 516-692-6768

Caterpillars and Critters

Benner’s Farm, 56 Gnarled Hollow Road, Setauket presents a kids workshop, Caterpillars and Critters on May 3 from 10 a.m. to noon. Children will learn about bugs and critters that live in and help the garden grow, make and take home a foot long caterpillar that will grow into a flower garden, visit the farm gardens, take a tour of the farm and a tractor ride too! For ages 3 to 8. $40 per child. To register, call 631-689-8172 or visit www.bennersfarm.com.

Astronomy Day

Suffolk County Vanderbilt Planetarium, 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport will celebrate Astronomy Day 2025 on May 3 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will include exciting science, take-home materials, the use of solar telescopes and engaging discussions about astronomy. Participants will create nebula spin art, investigate constellations, explore craters, and much more! Activities are included with planetarium show tickets and general admission to the Museum grounds. www.vanderbiltmuseum.org

Open Play at the Explorium

Join the Long Island Explorium, 101A East Broadway, Port Jefferson for Open Play on May 3 and May 4 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Celebrate STEM with hands-on activities, crafts and more. Admission fee is $6 per child, $8 per adult. 631-331-3277

All Paws on Deck

Calling all cat lovers! The Whaling Museum, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor presents All Paws on Deck, a day of feline festivities on May 4 from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Learn the hiss-tory of ship cats, test your feline knowledge in game of cat trivia, create kitty crafts, including catnip toys, go on a kitty scavenger hunt in the gallery, enjoy feline face painting and meet and play with adorable, adoptable cats. The purr-fect way to celebrate all things cat.  Admission is $10 per person. 631-367-3418

Sunday Funday: Baby Shower for Wildlife – Just added!

You’re invited to a baby shower for wildlife at Sweetbriar Nature Center, 62 Eckernkamp Drive, Smithtown on May 4 from 1 pm. to 3 p.m. Hundreds of young wild animals will rely on the Center for lifesaving care. Your gift during the Wildlife Baby Shower will ensure the smallest animals who need help — from squirrels and bunnies to hummingbirds and ducklings — get the nourishment and medical care they need to thrive. At the event you will meet some of the Center’s ambassador animals and learn about why they are permanent residents. Best for families with children ages 4 and up. $15 per child,  $5 per adult. To register, visit www.sweetbriarnc.org.

Story & Craft with Nana Carol

The Next Chapter bookstore, 204 New York Ave., Huntington hosts a Story and Craft event with Nana Carol on May 5 at 10:30 a.m. Free. No registration required. Appropriate for ages 0-4. 631-482-5008

Homeschool Hangout

Join Emma Clark Library, 120 Main St., Setauket for a get-together designed for homeschooled children on May 7 from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Kids can relax, socialize, and build friendships in a welcoming environment with creative group crafts, experiments and activities. No registration required. Open to all kids ages 5 to 12 years old. Questions? Email [email protected]

THEATER

A Royal Princess Party

Tickets are now on sale for A Royal Princess Party: A Villainous Tale of Magic! at the Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 East Main St., Smithtown from April 12 to May 4. The princesses return to the Royal Kingdom of Smithtown. Special surprises and magical touches make this show a royal treat! Tickets are $17.50 per person. To order, visit www.smithtownpac.org.

‘The Adventures of Peter Rabbit’

Theatre Three, 412 Main St., Port Jefferson celebrates Spring with the return of The Adventures of Peter Rabbit from April 16 to May 10 at 11 a.m. With the help of his sisters—Flopsy, Mopsy, and Cotton-Tail—and his cousin, Benjamin Bunny, Peter Rabbit learns the power of sharing and caring in this adorable musical. All seats are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com. 

Photo courtesy Long Island Game Farm Facebook

Join the Long Island Game Farm, 489 Chapman Blvd., Manorville in celebrating their 55th anniversary year with day long festivities on Saturday, May 3 at 10 a.m.

Led by Master of Ceremonies Doug Geed, the event will kick off with a ribbon cutting ceremony of the Woodland Trail, a universal access trail suitable for wheelchairs. The trail renovation was made possible with funds from Suffolk County Jumpsmart program. The ribbon cutting will open Woodland Trail for the start of the Trail Trot & Animal Antics, a non-competitive run/walk through the trail followed by animal inspired challenges (antics) for the children. 

In addition, the day will include:

— An Open House where guests will meet the Game Farm Team, Camp Counselors, and partners to learn about what’s new at the Game Farm this year including a summer music series and the Re-Photo Project.

— Kids craft activities by Macaroni Kid. Refreshments will be served.

— Performances by local songwriters and the Eastport South Manor Junior High Orchestra on the new Susan M. Novak Stage.

—Game Farm Director Greg Drossel will lead groups on a Woodland Trail Walk while he shares the Game Farm vision for the Trail.

— Artist Tonito Valderrama will invite attendees to participate in the creation of The Great Nest of Life Installation Project, an interactive nature sculpture celebrating birds of Long Island.

— Boy Scout Sam Zvolensky will show his Eagle Award Project, a sensory garden at the Game Farm while Scouts Adalia Haas and Summer Realander will talk about the Gold Award projects they are each working on.

— Nick Jacinto will talk about his animals and his upcoming Weekends with Nature Nick at the Game Farm.

 Anthony Graziano, Long Island Landscape Photographer and conservation advocate will talk about his work and upcoming photo and IPhone photography classes at the Game Farm.

— Dr. Heidi MacALpine and Noelle Grogan, community collaborators promoting health and wellbeing through the creative arts, will demonstrate and talk about their work and upcoming program.

— And of course visit with the many unique animals that call the Game Farm home.

“The Long Island Game Farm was one of our Island’s first tourist attractions and it remains one of our most treasured landmarks. It’s brought pleasure and joy to the Geeds and thousands of other families through the decades and I’m excited about this new chapter for the Game Farm and the Novak Family,” said Geed.

“It’s hard to believe it’s been 55 years since my family moved into the Manorville site and created the Long Island Game Farm. I’m happy to be honoring my parents by sharing this accomplishment with the people of Long Island. I am grateful to Suffolk County for making our Trail and new stage possible through Jumpsmart funds,” said Long Island Game Farm President Melinda Novak. 

Discounted admission for the day is $15 per person,  children under age 2 are free. 

Registration for the Trail Trot for youth, ages 3-12 years is in advance and includes admission to the Game Farm and a commemorative t-shirt. To register and for further information, visit https://www.longislandgamefarm.com/trailtrot.

ABOUT LONG ISLAND GAME FARM

Long Island Game Farm Wildlife Park and Children’s Zoo was founded in 1970 by Stanley and Diane Novak. As the largest combined children’s zoo and wildlife park on LongIsland, they offer families a natural environment where they can learn about wildlife and animals through education and entertainment. A member of American Association of Zookeepers and Zoological Association of America, the farm is located at 489 Chapman Boulevard, Manorville, New York 11949. For more information, visit longislandgamefarm.com, email [email protected], or call 631-878-6644. Find Long Island Game Farm on Instagram and Facebook at @longislandgamefarm.

 

By Julianne Mosher

SomeBUNNY should go see the most perfect springtime show now playing at Port Jefferson’s Theatre Three right away. The Adventures of Peter Rabbit might be geared for kids, but audiences of all ages will smile from ear to ear by the end of the hour-long show. 

Written by Jeffrey Sanzel and Brent Erlanson, the musical opened last week during Spring Break and will run through May 10. With original music by Kevin F. Story, the musical is based loosely on the beloved characters from The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter.

The show starts off in the cute and cozy cottage home of Mrs. Rabbit (Elizabeth Ladd) and her three adorable bunnies — Flopsy, Mopsy and Cotton-Tail (Cassidy Rose O’Brien, Julia Rose Albino and Katy Snair). There is, however, a fourth bunny, Peter (Ryan Worrell), who is a bit of a troublemaker, especially if he gets together with his cousin Benjamin Bunny (Ryan Van Nostrand). 

The two boys can’t stay away from the next door farm of Mr. and Mrs. McGregor’s garden (Louisa Bikowski and Liam Marsigliano), which is full of all of their favorite veggies to eat (or steal). Soon enough, Mr. McGregor, who’s “a meanie with a temper like a bear,” spies Peter and Benjamin sneaking tastes of lettuce, cucumbers and carrots and begins to plot his revenge. 

Interactive and exciting for the little ones in the crowd, there is always something to look at. For example, you may see Peter, his three sisters and their cousin run through the aisles, take a seat in the audience and even chat with you throughout the show. 

Colleen Britt directs a small cast of eight, but with a large level of talent. Worrell and Van Nostrand shine in the comedic roles of Peter and Benjamin. O’Brien, Albino and Snair are great additions with their timely, goody-two-shoes one liners and, of course, Mrs. Rabbit is equally as lovable. And even though they’re the antagonists as the farmers, you’ll still have a soft spot for Bikowski and Marsigliano, too. 

Plus, all of the songs and dances, with special mention to “Run Peter Run” and “Peter’s Socks,” are charming with Douglas J. Quattrock and Jeffrey Hoffman on the keyboards. The final number incorporates all of the songs in a super mega-mix extravaganza.

Costumes by Jason Allyn, from the bunnies’ spring dresses in pink, purple, green and red to their bunny ears and tails, are the carrots on the cake. And wait until you see the lighting and special effects!

Souvenir bunnies in various colors will be sold before the show and during intermission and the entire cast will be in the lobby after the show for a meet-and-greet and photos.

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Theatre Three, 412 Main St. Port Jefferson presents The Adventures of Peter Rabbit at 11 a.m. on April 26, April 27 (sensory-friendly performance), May 3 and May 10. Children’s theater continues with Snow White and the 7 Dwarfs from May 13 to June 21. All seats are $12. To order, call 631-928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

By Sabrina Artusa

On a warm and sunny April 19, families gathered at the Smithtown Historical Society for an Easter egg hunt, live music, crafts and a petting zoo. 

Food trucks parked on the grounds and, during breaks from the scavenger hunt or racing in the mini trucks, children sat in the shade and enjoyed an ice cream. Sheep, ponies, goats and llamas received much attention from the curious children. Adults perused craft booths that vendors set up next to a small stage, where the band Perfect Strangers covered the classics. 

Children in their Easter best sat next to the Easter bunny and posed for pictures. Bunny ears bobbed across the expansive grounds as children ran from one activity to the next, enjoying the fresh air and Easter festivities. 

— Photos by Sabrina Artusa

Due to rain in the forecast for Saturday, the annual Spring Appreciation Day at the Stony Brook Village Center, 111 Main St., Stony Brook has been rescheduled to Sunday, April 27 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. offering a fun-filled afternoon for the whole family.  Visitors can enjoy a variety of entertainment and experiences during this free event, including:

  • Steppin’ Out Ponies & Petting Zoo (1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. in front of D.K. Brothers): Children can interact with a variety of friendly animals.
  • Mustang & Shelby Club of Long Island Car Show (10 a.m. to 3 p.m. behind the Post Office): A spectacular display of Mustangs from 1964 to today, including classic models like the Shelby GT500, GT350, and the Boss 302. This event will also celebrate National Mustang Day, as MSCLI kicks off the season with up to 70 Mustangs on display. (MSCLI members must pre-register to participate; for more information, contact[email protected].)
  • Live Music by Brenda & Burke (noon to 4 p.m. at the Stony Brook Post Office): Enjoy an eclectic mix of R&B, Roots, Blues, and Contemporary Acoustic performances.
  • The Ward Melville Heritage Organization Youth Corps (1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. in Inner Court): Family-friendly scavenger hunt for all to enjoy. One lucky winner will win a Stony Brook Village gift certificate. Other prizes are available for each participant.
  • Stony Brook Fire Department (noon to 3 p.m. behind the Post Office): Meet local firefighters, explore a fire truck up close, and learn about volunteer opportunities. Giveaway items will be available for children and adults.

While enjoying the festivities, visitors can shop the latest spring styles with special deals at participating Stony Brook Village shops and dine at one of seven delicious restaurants in the open-air village center.

Spring Appreciation Day is sponsored by News 12 Long Island, Goldfish Swim School, and Renewal by Andersen. For more information, visit stonybrookvillage.com

Photo courtesy of ECLI-VIBES

On Saturday, April 12, ECLI-VIBES invited clients to celebrate Easter at its office in Islandia. Thanks to a heartwarming donation of 200 Easter baskets from community members, 93 families impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault, or abuse were able to enjoy the event with their families, allowing each child to pick out their own Easter basket.

Photo courtesy of ECLI-VIBES

“The Easter event deeply touched me. Everything was done with care and kindness, which meant a lot to me and my daughter. It inspired me to want to give back in some way, even if I can only do a little. Knowing people are doing this kind of good work gives me hope,” said an ECLI-VIBES client.

Children also participated in different activities and photo opportunities, like other ECLI-VIBES events. Families attending enjoyed Easter-themed snacks, face painting, photos with the Easter Bunny, therapy dogs, and a planting activity. Volunteers and ECLI-VIBES staff were present to help these families experience the joy of spring.

“The joy displayed by these families illuminated the building,” shared Bilingual Senior Coordinator Danielle Gorman. “It was wonderful to see all the families engaged in the planned activities and excited to choose their Easter baskets.”

Photo courtesy of ECVLI-VIBES

ECLI-VIBES intentionally offers a unique experience that goes beyond traditional human services. Nevertheless, the organization aims to create memorable family experiences through holiday drives and events. This year’s Easter celebration featured themed photoshoots, animal interactions, and creativity-focused, hands-on activities.

“We could simply provide these families with an Easter basket and send them on their way. However, we love to create personal and engaging activities that will create lasting memories for them. We have seen that introducing activities brings more smiles and offers these families a sense of normalcy,” said Assistant Coordinator Gina Ocello.

Some families who signed up for the Easter event could not attend because of the weather. They will be contacted to pick up their baskets separately.

If you or anyone you know is experiencing violence or abuse, call the ECLI-VIBES 24-hour hope line at (631) 360-3606. To learn more about ECLI-VIBES and the services they provide, visit www.eclivibes.org.

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About ECLI-VIBES

ECLI-VIBES is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to support victims of domestic violence, child abuse, sexual assault, and human trafficking and empower individuals to break free from the cycle of violence and abuse and achieve independence. They provide services such as a 24-hour hope line, counseling programs, advocacy assistance, legal assistance, a Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner (SAFE) program, housing programs, and a fully-stocked community food pantry. To learn more about ECLI-VIBES and how you can get involved, please visit www.eclivibes.org.

By Julianne Mosher

It was an egg-cellent time for all. 

With a weekend of sunshine and warm temperatures, Saturday, April 19 was the perfect day to search for some eggs throughout Port Jefferson’s Harborfront Park. 

The Greater Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce’s annual Easter parade and egg hunt was even more egg-citing this year thanks to hundreds of families who came out to participate. Starting at noon, moms, dads, grandparents and their little ones lined up outside Theatre Three and marched down Main Street in their best Easter attire with baskets in hand with the hopes of finding as many plastic eggs as they could.

Leading the group were members of the chamber and Port Jefferson’s favorite Easter Bunny, Barbara Ransome, director of operations for the chamber. The parade finished up at the Port Jefferson Village Center where tables were set up to trade in found eggs for different prizes and bins to recycle the eggs for next year’s event — an effort to continue being sustainable to the planet. 

While the lines were long to hand in the eggs, the line to take a picture with the Easter Bunny was equally as lengthy with kids of all ages ready to smile. 

— Photos by Julianne Mosher