Celebrate New Year's Eve in Style on LI!

We’ve made it almost halfway through December, and the majority 2013 has already come & gone, and you know what that means - it’s time to welcome 2014! If you’re still unsure of how you’ll be ringing in the New Year on December 31st, not to worry - we’ve got you covered. Our annual New Year’s Celebration Guide features dozens of great local events happening in both Nassau and Suffolk, highlights of the hottest happenings in NYC, as well as fun ways to celebrate at home, and tips & tricks for hosting your own bash.

No matter what you consider the perfect night on the town, there is somewhere great to celebrate when the clock strikes 12:00 - from black tie galas, to non-stop nightclub dancing, to laid back festivities at your favorite bar, there are all sorts of fantastic festivities to welcome 2014 with. 

For  all the best ways to welcome 2014, check out LongIsland.com's New Year's Entertainment Guide!

Christmas Cookies: Simple Recipes to Make Your Season Bright

 Nothing says Christmas quite like a freshly baked batch of homemade cookies! Not an avid baker? Not to worry! We've got some spectacular simple recipes for baking beautiful cookies this holiday that are as tasty as they are good looking! Christmas is almost here, and with only one weekend before the holiday, it's time to break out your cookie tins, get your oven ready, and get to it! You'll be glad you did when you're enjoying your cookies and cocoa this Christmas!

 

For our best Christmas Cookie Recipes, click here!

 If you are lucky enough this season to enjoy a fireplace, fire would is readily available on the island for purchase. Some people enjoy seasoning their own wood, but that can take up to two years when done properly. It is also important to remember fire safety this winter with your fireplaces. So check out our article about firewood and fireplace safety before enjoying a warm fire at home.

For all the safety tips & to find out where you can pick up firewood here on LI, click here!

Simple Stovetop Hot Chocolate Recipes That Will Keep You Warm this Winter!

 Nothing gets you in the spirit quite like a mug full of homemade hot chocolate - this sweet and savory drink is perfect for melting more than just the ice outside! Hot Chocolate is one of those special seasonal treats that is best enjoyed with friends and family - why not learn how to create hot cocoa concoctions of your own this holiday season, and treat your loved ones to something special this winter? Not sure how to make your own? Not to worry! We've got you covered with a rundown of the basics of hot chocolate making, and some great ways to spice up our classic cocoa recipe that are sure to be a hit.

For this season's best Hot Chocolate Recipes, click here!

Great Gifts to Keep on Hand for Unexpected Holiday Guests

The holiday season is here, and with Christmas right around the corner, it's time to get those decorations up, get your holiday meal planned, and get ready for guests stopping by! Sometimes, an unexpected tag-along may join the festivities - what's a host to do? To help ease this situation and ensure that it's not awkward and your surprise guest feels welcome, it's always good to keep a handful of "emergency gifts" on hand. On Hand Gifts are typically fairly inexpensive, and are good choices for a variety of giftees - whether your son's new girlfriend swings by, your cousin drops in to say hello, or an old pal decides to come say hi this holiday. 

To help you plan ahead, we've put together an Emergency Gift Guide right here!

Long Island Home Owners Have Only 3 Weeks Left to Keep Their STAR Tax Exemptions

 Homeowners on Long Island as well as the rest of New York have only three weeks left to re-register for Basic School Tax Assessment Relief (STAR) exemptions. The STAR program, designed to give homeowners a break on their taxes, allows New York State residents who make less than $500,000 a year and own their primary residence to exempt the first $30,000 of their house values from school taxes.

Re-Registration must be completed by December 31st, and this tax break is something that no homeowner will want to miss out on.

For all of the need to know information about the STAR Exemptions & all the forms you'll need, click here!

Santa Claus is Coming to Town - Where to Meet Santa This Year on LI!

You better not pout, you better not cry - Santa Claus is coming to town! This year, the man himself will be making appearances across Long Island so that all the good little girls & boys can tell him all about their Christmas wishes. Meeting Santa has been a holiday tradition for ages, and luckily for Long Island, there will be plenty of opportunities before Christmas to sit down with Santa, and even snap a photo - he's making appearances in both Nassau & Suffolk daily! Get your Christmas List ready, and put on your holiday best - it's time to meet Santa, and make sure he knows what you REALLY want this Christmas! 

To find out where to meet Santa this Season, click here!

Get Crafty with Gifting at a Holiday Craft Fair This Season!

 Hanukkah is well under way, and Christmas is right around the corner, and with Black Friday and Cyber Monday come and gone, it's time to kick it into high gear when it comes to holiday shopping. This year, there are dozens of craft fairs and festivals happening throughout the month of December here on Long Island - perfect for finding just the right gift for everyone on your list. Holiday Craft Fairs are filled with local vendors that have lovingly created handmade items such as jewelry, candles, clothing, gourmet food, and a wide variety of unique gifts. This holiday, why not shop local, and give the gift of handmade crafts!

For the scoop on all the upcoming craft fairs, click here!

Black Friday Shopping Guide 2013: The Best Bargains of the Season!

 Thanksgiving is almost upon us, and for many, that means relaxing, and spending some extra time with friends and family. For others however, it means the official start to the holiday shopping season is here - the Friday after Thanksgiving, known as Black Friday, has traditionally been the busiest shopping day of the entire year, with retailers offering a wide variety of incredible discounts and sweet sales to entice shoppers to get started on their holiday shopping.

If you're not sure where to start looking when it comes to these seasonal sales, then you're in luck - we've got the scoop on all the Best Black Friday Sales happening right here on Long Island, and we've put together a handy guide featuring the scoop on what stores open when, and highlights of the Steals & Deals you'll find this Black Friday. 

If you're ready ready to get out there and get saving, then you won't want to miss LongIsland.com's Annual Black Friday Shopping Guide - click here for details!

Tasty Turkey Tips: How to Prepare a Perfect Bird this Holiday!

Let's face it - preparing and carving the perfect turkey on Thanksgiving is a task that many of us find daunting - the turkey is the centerpiece of one of the biggest meals you and your family will enjoy the entire year! This year, to help you enjoy a more stress-free holiday, we've put together some great tips and tricks for selecting, preparing, and serving your Thanksgiving Turkey, including insights from industry pros who know how best to prepare the bird.

Whether you're hosting Thanksgiving at your home for the first time this year, or you're simply looking to refine your cooking and carving skills, we've got some great tips that are sure to make this holiday's meal mouthwatering, and simpler than ever before! 

For all of our great Turkey Tips, Click Here!

Black Thursday: Should The Shopping Frenzy Trample Thanksgiving Dinner?

 For years now, retailers have been opening their doors earlier and earlier for Black Friday Sales. This year, numerous big box chains across the country have made the decision to open up during dinnertime on Thanksgiving - a move that has proven to be controversial with consumers and retail employees alike. In this Black Friday exclusive, we've spoken with local retail employees, small business owners, and consumers - find out what Long Island has to say about this new shopping trend that many feel has begun to trample Thanksgiving.

To read the full story and share your opinion on the new "Black Thursday" Trend, click here!

Give Thanks by Giving Back to Long Island Food Pantries this Holiday Season

Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and as we enter the holiday season, it is important to remember that across Long Island, there are locals who may not be as fortunate this year, and could use a helping hand from their neighbors. Thankfully, there are numerous food pantries in Nassau and Suffolk that are here to support Long Islanders in their time of need, and this holiday season, they're asking for your help when it comes to collecting food and supplies. With the recent cut in SNAP benefits for many Long Islanders, it's more important than ever before to give what you can, and help out those in need.

For the scoop on how you can get involved with one of these local food pantries, and to find out how you can make someone's holiday season a bit more bright, check out Today's Top Ten - we've got the scoop on the local organizations you'll want to work with this holiday season, as well as the scoop on what they're in need of in terms of donations.

For the full Giving Back Guide, click here!

Honoring Long Island Vets with Local Veterans Day Events Across LI

This upcoming Monday, November 11th, is Veterans Day, and across Long Island, there are numerous events happening this upcoming weekend, as well as on the holiday itself honoring local veterans for their service in the United States Armed Forces, and protect our country, and way of life. Whether a member of your family has served, or you're simply looking to honor local heroes, you'll have plenty of opportunities not only to honor Long Island Veterans this weekend, but to give back, and support numerous Veterans Causes, ranging from assisting retired veterans, and active military.

To find out more about this year's Veteran's Day Events happening on LI, click here.

Turkey Trot 2013: Get in a Jog Before You Get Gobblin'

 Across Long Island, a new Thanksgiving tradition has taken hold - Turkey Trots! Before it's time to chow down on turkey, mashed potatoes, green beans, stuffing, and all of your holiday favorites, why not join locals across Long Island for one of the many Turkey Trots happening early Thanksgiving morning this year. Many of the trots raise money for a good cause, or registration fees go to keep the local parts and towns clean and looking great! 

Before you dive into that big meal this year, think about heading out for a trot, and make room for that extra slice of pie you've been eying! 

For the scoop on Long Island's 2013 Turkey Trots, click here!

Jack-o-Latern Carving Made Easy - How to Perfect a Pumpkin in Time for Halloween!

With Halloween only a few days away, it's time to break out the carving knives, and bring your pumpkins to life! Whether you're a seasoned pro or you're new to jack-o-latern carving, a few basic rules will ensure that you have a fun and safe time, and that your creation is scary-good! In addition to these great tips and tricks, we've also put together some unique carving ideas, so that your doorstep will stand out this season with a truly unique creation. We've even got great ideas on how to get the little ghosts and ghouls involved in the fun!

For the scoop on carving the perfect pumpkin, click here!

LongIsland.com's 2013 Haunted House Review Series

 Halloween is just around the corner, and if you haven't had a chance to check out any of the cool haunts here on Long Island, then now is your chance to get the inside scoop on the amazing haunted attractions happening right here on Long Island. Whether you're into big scares, or you're looking to plan a spooky-good time that the whole family can enjoy, we've got the inside scoop on some of the best Haunted Houses and Halloween Happenings - making it easier than ever before for you to know before you go, and make the most out of this Halloween season! 

There's plenty of fun happening this week, and beyond - with many haunts even staying open the first week of November, since Halloween falls later on in the week this year.

Grab your costume, and gear up for fun - find out more about LI's haunts right here!

Tips & Tricks for Staying Safe This Halloween

Halloween is sure to be a scary-good time for everyone this year, and as your little ghouls and goblins get ready to head out to Trick or Treat on the big day, you'll want to be sure to go over this handy safety guide with them, which is packed with information to have a safe and fun time. We've got helpful tips for kids of all ages - whether you're walking around with the little ones, or they're headed out this year on their own for the first time. 

We've also got some great tips for pet owners for keeping Fido & Fluffy safe this Halloween - pets can be easily spooked, and all of the commotion can stress or scare them. 

For all the need-to-know safety info, check out our Halloween Safety Guide by clicking here!

Columbus Day Weekend Fun the Whole Family Can Enjoy

 Whether or not you're lucky enough to have a three day weekend, there's plenty of fun to be had in celebration of Columbus Day this Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. From fun-filled Fall Festivals that the whole family can enjoy, to outdoor autumn events and hair-raising Halloween Haunts, there is a multitude of great entertainment happening this weekend, and we've got the scoop on all the best happenings right here, in this handy Columbus Day Fun Guide. We've also included lots of great cool-weather activities, in case you don't feel like sticking to a schedule this weekend, but still want to head out for a day filled with fun. 

For all the best entertainment & hottest happenings of the weekend, head over to LongIsland.com, and check out our Columbus Day Fun Guide!

Amazing Autumn Colors - LI's Best Fall Foliage!

 As the seasons change, so do the colors of the leaves, and here on Long Island, checking out the beautiful fall foliage is a bona fide pastime! There are plenty of scenic hiking trails and driving routes that will give you a good look at the beauty of the season, whether you're in Nassau or Suffolk - there's no need to go upstate to get a glimpse of Autumn - we've got plenty right here in our own backyard! 

If you'd like to add fall foliage viewing to your Autumn Activity List, then you're in luck - we've got the scoop on some spectacular spots that you can check out this October.

To get the scoop on the best foliage viewing spots, check out the full article on LongIsland.com!

Shiver Me Timbers - It's International Talk Like a Pirate Day!

If you love pirates and local pirate folklore, than yarrrrrrrrrr in for a real treat today! It's International Talk Like a Pirate Day - a day where folks around the globe speak only in pirate-lingo. 

Want to celebrate, but need to brush up on your pirate lingo? Then ye be in luck! We've got a great guide to learning to speak like a scurvy dog, as well as the scoop on deals at local establishments that are celebrating the holiday.

Long Island has a long history of pirate-lore - including the legend that Captain Kidd's treasure is buried somewhere right here on LI! Get this scoop on this local pirate tale, and find out how ye can become more pirate-y right here! 

You won't want to miss this one - click here!

Apple Picking Hot Spots Here on LI

 September is drawing to a close, but there's still plenty of time to head out to the orchard, and pick some apples! Apple picking has been a beloved family tradition for folks across Long Island, and thankfully, this year looks like it's a good one for apples. Whether you like granny smith, gala, golden delicious, or mackintosh, there are plenty of apples to be picked, and varieties to suit every palate. 

Grab a basket, and round up your friends and family - it's time to go get some apples, and get into the spirit of the fall season!

Be sure to check out this year's Guide to Great Orchards, and get ready for a day of family fun!

Libraries Have Lots to Offer Students as the School Season Kicks Off

School is back in session, and students everywhere are beginning to buckle down, and work on ways to do their best this semester - from creating new study habits, to finding the best place to get work accomplished. Thankfully, there are dozens of local libraries right here on Long Island that can help get the job done - in addition to offering great study space, many also have education programs, study help workshops, SAT/ACT Prep Classes, and a wide variety of resources that are perfect for students who are taking their studies seriously this year. And of course, you can always borrow books, eBooks, music, movies, and DVDs from your local library!

To get the scoop on all of the great resources, and to find a library location near you, click here!

Fun the Whole Family Can Enjoy This September

Fall is finally here, and with it comes all sorts of new seasonal fun! As the weather begins to cool down, and a chill starts to set in the air, plenty of great opportunities for fun and entertainment arise. Whether you love Fall Festivals, are looking to plan a trip Out East go go Apple Picking, or you simply want to check out some of the beautiful Fall Foliage that will be heading our way - Long Island has it all when it comes to Fall Fun.

To get the scoop on all the hottest happenings here on Long Island this month, be sure to check out our September Guide - here you'll find a round up of the best entertainment, events, and things to do happening this month on Long Island, including all the can't-miss seasonal fun! 

Getting Ready For College: A Student's Checklist

This week, college students are gearing up to get back to school - and for many freshman, this means the first time they'll be living away from home. To make this transition easier, LongIsland.com has put together a great guide to everything you'll need to start the semester off right. This useful, printable checklist is filled with all of the important essentials you'll want as you start your life in the dorms - from vital items such as toiletries and bed sheets, to the not-so-obvious things that will help make life at college easier, and more fun.

Get all the details on how to make sure your new home away from home is great - check out LongIsland.com's 2013 Back to School Student Checklist!

Kayaking on Long Island: How to Get Started & Where to Gear Up!

 The calm waters of Long Island's rivers are an ideal location to enjoy easy paddling amidst beautiful scenery. Anyone can rent a kayak and begin to paddle, most people don't take a lesson to learn the essentials of kayaking - it's a fun way to enjoy the outdoors, and you don't need to be a pro to have a day of fun kayaking. To help you on your way, we've put together a guide to the beginning skills you'll need to understand before getting into and paddling a kayak, and where you can get everything you'll need to hit the water once you've learned!

To Check Out the Guide and Get Ready to Hit the Water, Click Here! 

Long Island's Ultimate Summer 2013 Guide: Free Family Fun, Things to Do, & More!

 No matter what your favorite summer past time is, we've got you covered - from great concerts, to festivals and fairs, and all sorts of FREE family fun, we've got just what you're looking for this summer, Long Island - all in our 2013 Ultimate Summer Guide, which features over 100 of the hottest happenings and things to do this summer.

Whether you've got the kids in tow who are looking to be entertained, or you're trying to find some fun things to do with your friends this summer - you won't want to miss this guide. We've got fun for all ages, and can help you get through the doldrums of summer, and get the most out of Long Island this season - check it out! 

To check out the full guide and make the most out of Summer 2013, click here!

Staying Safe During the 4th of July: Fireworks Safety Information & Startling Stats

 Every 4th of July, millions of Americans enjoy the countless fireworks displays that light up the night skies across the country. Unfortunately, there are also thousands of people who end up getting hospitalized each July due to firework-related injuries, ranging from minor burns to dismemberment, and even death. Here in New York, it is illegal to shoot off fireworks without a permit - in major part due to the serious safety issues involved with properly lighting fireworks. With dozens of professional displays happening across Long Island on Independence Day, it simply isn't worth the risk if you're not a professional. 

We've got the scoop on some of the startling statistics about fireworks, and info on how you can stay safe this summer, and enjoy some great, professional displays right here on Long Island.

To find out more, click here!

Long Island's 2013 4th of July Guide: The Best Ways to Celebrate Independence Day on LI!

Looking for something fun to do on the 4th this year? Not to worry, Long Island! We've got you covered with a comprehensive guide to the best fireworks, events, and things to do this year to celebrate Independence Day right here on Long Island. Whether you're looking to spend quality time with family and friends, start a new tradition, or experience something new this year, we've got what you're looking for - the scoop on all the best things to do in Nassau and Suffolk! 

To check out the full guide and get ahead on planning your 4th of July Festivities, head over to LongIsland.com!

Summer Fun While School Is Out

 Summer is right around the corner - this Friday, June 21st, is its official start. Students everywhere are rejoicing, because this can only mean one thing - school's out, and it's time for Summer Vacation! Right here on Long Island, there are plenty of great warm weather activities that the whole family can enjoy - from visiting our local beaches and parks, to playing sports and games, and visiting local attractions - there are plenty of things to do for kids of all ages this summer on Long Island. Whether you're looking to indulge your sweet tooth, cool off on a hot day, or simply enjoy the company of your friends and family, Long Island has something for everyone.

To get the scoop about some of the hottest summer activities for the family, head over to LongIsland.com and read the story in full!

Last Minute Father's Day Gift Ideas that Dad is Guaranteed to Love!

 Father's Day is right around the corner - have you picked out the perfect gift for Dad this year? If not, then not to worry - we've got you covered with some great gift ideas that Dad is sure to love. Father's Day is about letting your Dad know how important he is to you, which is why we've put together this guide filled with ideas ranging from unique experiences you can both enjoy together, to heart-felt gifts that he'll love, and will let him know how much you care. No matter what your Dad is passionate about, we've got something great in store for him this year - be sure to check out the Full Guide on LongIsland.com for the scoop on the best gifts for Father's Day this year, and make this year's celebration truly special!

Locals Turn to Social Media to Dethrone the Long Island Princesses

This past Sunday, Princesses: Long Island made its debut on Bravo, and locals across the Island have quite a lot to say about the polarizing show. Many feel that it is not only a poor representation of LI, but that some of the comments made by the so-called Princesses are derogatory, and racist. Since the show's premiere, there have been countless Tweets, YouTube & Facebook Posts, and even a Facebook Group calling for a boycott of the show - a shockingly large negative response, considering the show only brought in a paltry 1.2 million views during its initial airing. One of the Princesses, Ashlee White, even issued an apology for some of the statements made on the show. 

To see some of the social media highlights, and find out more about Ashlee's apology, check on the full story on LongIsland.com! 

"Bad Year" For Ticks & Mosquitoes on Long Island This Year, Thanks to Sandy

 Long Islanders enjoying fun in the sun this summer will have one more thing to worry about - according to experts, this year is gearing up to be a bad one for both ticks and mosquitoes, that may carry lethal diseases such as Lyme Disease, and the West Nile Virus, respectively. Both bugs are native to the area, and in the wake of Hurricane Sandy, they've been left with even more ideal conditions to breed and thrive - something locals need to be aware of before heading out into wooded areas, or to the local parks. Although both Lyme Disease and West Nile Virus are treatable, both can have long-term effects, so it's best to be prepared with bug spray, and to check for ticks and bug bites after you've been outdoors.

For the full scoop on the invasion of Mosquitoes & Ticks, and to find out how you can protect yourself, check out the full article on LongIsland.com!

Getting Your Body Beach-Ready for the Summer

 After a long winter, many Long Islanders are looking for ways to get back in shape before hitting the beach - a feat that is not easy! Much of the fun in the sun happening this summer on LI will of course be at one of the dozens of public beaches that line our North and South Shore, which is why it's important to get ready. There's also plenty of pools and water parks to hang out in, so before it gets too warm, it's time to shape up! Don't miss out on all of the fun this season just because you're trying to get rid of that winter flab - you can fight the fat before it's too late, and get out there to enjoy all that Long Island has to offer this summer - and look good doing it!

From tips for fixing your diet to tricks for getting the most out of your work out, we've got the scoop on how to get your body beach ready for this summer - head over to LongIsland.com for the scoop!

Springing into the 2013 Prom Season

Prom Season is right around the corner, but for many High Schoolers, there is still a ton to do before

the big night! From picking out the perfect outfit, make up, and hairstyle, to organizing a limousine ride to the Prom with friends - there's plenty of last minute planning to be done. If you're still planning the perfect Prom night, not to worry, LongIsland.com has you covered with all you'll need to make sure that your Prom is everything you dreamed it would be, and ensure you make memories that will last a lifetime. 

From tying up loose ends pre-Prom, to finding the perfect place to keep the celebration going with friends post-Prom, we've got the scoop on how to say goodbye to your High School Years while having a blast, and celebrating in style! 

To get all the tips & tricks for the 2013 Prom Season, click here!

Winter Storm Saturn: What's In Store for Long Island

Although Long Island will be avoiding the brunt of the Winter Storm dubbed Saturn, it is beginning to look more likely that the Island will be getting at least a few inches of snowfall – something that many locals are dreading, as the snows from Winter Storm Nemo have just melted. As of Wednesday morning, the National Weather Service has issued numerous warnings for Long Island, and the New York Metro Area, including a Winter Weather Advisory, Coastal Flood Advisory, Coastal Flood Watch, Wind Advisory, and a Hazardous Weather Outlook Alert.

For the full story, check out LongIsland.com's Winter Storm Saturn Coverage, and for the most up to date weather, visit the LongIsland.com Weather Center.

Brookhaven Animal Shelter Hosts "Hot Chocolate & Fun Day" to Spur Adoptions

The Brookhaven Animal Shelter will be hosting a special event this upcoming Saturday, January 26th - "Hot Chocolate & Fun Day", in an effort to encourage more Long Islanders to visit their shelter, and take home a new furry friend. The shelter is home to dozens of cats and dogs, all of which are looking for a "forever home", and this event is a great opportunity for anyone that is looking for a pet to get to meet some of the wonderful animals that are up for adoption at the Brookhaven Animal Shelter. The Shelter will also be accepting donations of food and supplies at this event - even if you're not looking for a four legged addition to your family, you can still help the Shelter continue to do thier good works.

For more information on this event, and the scoop on the Brookhaven Animal Shelter, click here!

Local Nightlife Update: The Queen Extravaganza - Live in Huntington

 The Queen Extravaganza came to Long Island this past weekend and put on a terrific show at Huntington Village’s recently renovated theater. From the energetic performance of drummer Tyler Warren to the soaring vocals of lead singers Marc Martel and Jennifer Espinoza this concert was more than just an ordinary tribute put together by a few fans. The band managed to walk the line of playing respectful renditions of some of Queen’s biggest songs while adding a hint of freshness to their take on the classics. No wonder they have been officially endorsed and produced by Queen’s own drummer, Roger Taylor!

For the whole scoop on this great act, and more pics from the show, click here!