Our roundup of fun and free/low-cost things to do with kids in Nassau County, Long Island this August includes the Long Island Scottish Festival in Old Westbury, plus lots of summer shows and outdoor events from Garden City to Oyster Bay.
Aug. 8
Tales and Tunes
Reading is fundamental for kids. And it’s been said music helps them learn. Darlene Graham and the Shades of Green Band combine both when they present A Musical Celebration of Reading at the Long Island Children’s Museum in Garden City, bringing books to life through music and theatrics. In this high-energy show, kids will recognize such classics as “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” “Gingerbread Boy,” “Caps for Sale,” and other tales, each presented with a musical spin.
Aug. 8, 22, 29
Moving Meditation
Professional instructor Linda Cafiero leads an outdoor Tai Chi class geared for all skill levels at Old Westbury Gardens.
Aug. 10
Abracadabra!
The Magic and Comedy of Jim McClenahan combines sleight of hand and humor into one high-energy show at Shell Creek Park in Island Park that will dazzle both the young and young-at-heart. FREE!
Aug. 25-26
Kilted Clan
The bagpipes are calling and the Scots are coming to Old Westbury Gardens in full regalia for the two-day Long Island Scottish Festival. The event features concerts, caber toss, bagpipes, and vendors selling Scottish fabrics, gifts, foods, and music. There will also be British autos, step dancing, dog agility demonstrations, Scottish Regiment battle re-enactments, and a pirate show.
Throughout August
Summer Shows
Jenna Kavaler and Jake Sokoloff star in Alice’s Most Decidedly Unusual Adventures in Wonderland, a modern take on Lewis Carroll’s classic story showing Aug. 10-11 and 17-18 at Theatre Three in nearby Port Jefferson.
See the complete lineup of kids’ theater on Long Island this August
Throughout August
Fancy Fare
Assorted finger sandwiches, fresh fruit, mini cupcakes, and cookies are all on the menu at an Afternoon Tea Party at The Cupcake Corner Too in Garden City, where elegance and fun are equally combined. Freshly baked English scones—traditional and chocolate—lemonade, and tea and coffee (iced and hot) complete the meal. Children receive a free craft during the party. An outdoor garden adds to the ambience.
Aug. 1-24
Keeping the Scene Green
Green Teens, an environmental education program at the Long Island Children’s Museum that trains high school students to become outdoor educators, is leaving its mark on several local youth and younger children. Each week Green Teens lead museum visitors through an activity, craft, or game with a different nature-related theme. Kids learn fun ways to help the environment, enjoy a variety of outdoor experiences, and try their hand at cooking, crafts, and other science activities.
Through Sept. 25
Cruise Nights
See some of the finest vehicles on Long Island each Tuesday at Car & Bike Show and Festival in Downtown Oyster Bay. From Duesenbergs to Ducatis, car and motorcycle enthusiasts have been invited to bring their precious rides out for public viewing. Nights also includes live music, 50/50 drawings, and other family-friendly events. FREE!
For even more fun family activities on Long Island and in the NYC area, check out our full, searchable calendar of events!
