You’ve felt it. That mid-January slump where the holiday lights are down, the sky is a permanent shade of "utility pole gray," and the couch is calling your name a little too loudly. But honestly, staying inside is a trap. Long Island doesn't actually shut down in January; it just gets a bit more rugged and way less crowded. If you’re wondering what to do on Long Island this weekend, I’ve done the digging. We are looking at a weirdly perfect mix of high-octane arena shows, cozy Hamptons music sessions, and actual wildlife encounters that don't involve a screen.
This is the weekend of January 16 through January 18, 2026. Whether you're a local who’s bored or a visitor trying to figure out why we live here in the winter, there is plenty to keep you moving.
High Energy and Frozen Fun: The Arena Circuit
If you have kids—or just an inner child that likes things loud and shiny—the big arenas are dominating the schedule. Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party is currently taking over UBS Arena at Belmont Park. It's a massive production. Think high-flying acrobatics and world-class skating. If you’re heading there, definitely look into the Belmont Park redevelopment progress; it’s basically becoming its own city over there.
Meanwhile, over at the Nassau Coliseum (now often referred to as the Brooklyn Nets' sibling territory), the Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow Party is happening through Sunday, January 18. This isn't just a truck rally. It’s a laser-light, glow-in-the-dark spectacle. It’s loud. It’s chaotic. It’s exactly what you need to break the winter silence.
The East End: Music, Art, and "Fireside" Vibes
The Hamptons in January is a completely different world than the Hamptons in July. The traffic is gone. You can actually get a parking spot in Sag Harbor. Basically, it’s the best time to go.
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Friday, January 16: Candlelight and Reggae
Start your weekend at Wölffer Estate Vineyard in Sagaponack. They’re hosting Jeff LeBlanc for their Candlelight Friday series. It’s intimate, the wine is (obviously) great, and the vibe is very "luxury cabin." If you want something a bit more upbeat, North Sea Tavern in Southampton has Rum Punch Mafia playing reggae at 9 p.m. It’s a bit of tropical mental health for a cold Friday night.
Saturday, January 17: Nancy Atlas and Brian Mitchell
The Bay Street Theater in Sag Harbor is the place to be Saturday night. Local legend Nancy Atlas is joined by Brian Mitchell for a "Fireside Session." Mitchell is a wizard on the keys and accordion (he’s played with Levon Helm and Bob Dylan), so expect a night of New Orleans-style magic.
Art and Culture Highlights
- The Church (Sag Harbor): Don't miss the opening reception for Martha Graham: Collaborations on Saturday at 6 p.m. It marks the 100th anniversary of the Martha Graham Dance Company.
- White Room Gallery (East Hampton): Their winter exhibition is a "kaleidoscope of color," which is a nice antidote to the gray outdoors.
- Heckscher Museum of Art (Huntington): They have a wild immersive AR experience where Central Park’s Bethesda Fountain "visits" Heckscher Park. It’s free and pretty trippy.
Embracing the Cold: Outdoor Adventures
You might think I'm crazy for suggesting a walk on the beach in January, but this is peak seal-watching season. Long Island is a winter home for harbor, gray, and harp seals.
On Sunday, January 18, the South Fork Natural History Museum (SOFO) is leading a guided seal walk. You have to register in advance because these fill up fast. Wear more layers than you think you need. The wind off the Atlantic doesn't care about your fashion choices.
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If you prefer the North Shore, Hallock State Park Preserve in Riverhead is hosting an AMSEAS Beach Walk and Cleanup on Saturday morning. It’s a great way to see the Sound and do something actually productive for the environment.
Theater and Live Shows Across the Island
If the East End is too far of a haul, the middle of the island has plenty of talent on stage.
The John W. Engeman Theater in Northport is running Ring of Fire, the Johnny Cash musical. It’s a foot-stomping, high-energy show that covers everything from "I Walk the Line" to "A Boy Named Sue." There are shows all weekend, including a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday.
For something a bit more rock-focused, check out these spots:
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- The Paramount (Huntington): Paul Chowdhry is doing comedy Friday, followed by Neil Forever (a Neil Diamond tribute) on Saturday.
- The Suffolk (Riverhead): Masters of the Telecaster on Friday and Albert Lee on Sunday. This is a guitar lover’s dream weekend.
- Patchogue Theatre: Lotus Land (a tribute to Rush) is playing Saturday night. If you like complex drum fills, you know where to go.
MLK Weekend and Community Events
Since this is the start of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend, several state parks are holding commemorative events. Hempstead Lake State Park and Jones Beach State Park are hosting educational programs throughout the weekend. It’s a good time to reflect on Dr. King’s legacy while taking in the stark beauty of the winter coastline.
Where to Eat This Weekend
Honestly, you can't talk about Long Island without food.
- Brunch: The Shed in Huntington is doing a big MLK weekend brunch. Their pancakes are legendary for a reason.
- Margaritas: Besito (locations in Roslyn, West Islip, and Huntington) is doing 2-for-1 margaritas on Sunday and Monday from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
- Seafood: If you're out East, stick to the classics like the North Sea Tavern or grab a quiet dinner in Port Jefferson near the harbor.
Actionable Tips for Your Weekend
- Check the Ferry: If you're coming from Connecticut, the Port Jefferson and Orient Point ferries often have winter schedules. Check for weather delays before you head out.
- Reservations are Key: Even in winter, places like Wölffer Estate and the Bay Street Theater sell out. Don't just show up and hope for the best.
- Layer Up: The temperature might say 35 degrees, but the "real feel" near the water is always ten degrees lower.
- Support Local: Winter is when these local venues and shops need us most. Skip the mall and hit a Main Street in Northport, Huntington, or Sag Harbor.
Long Island in the winter isn't about the crowds or the heat; it's about the "hidden" version of the island that only the locals really get to see. Pick one thing—a concert, a seal walk, or just a really good margarita—and get out there. The couch will still be there when you get back.