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There was a time on the North Fork where finding something worthwhile to do between November and April seemed as ambitious as running a marathon — not so anymore.
Collaborative chef dinners, expert cheese pairings and a new way to experience a classic game are just a few ways to fill your mid-winter itinerary.
Beat cabin fever at these 10 February events.
Punxatawny Phil’s Groundhog’s Day Dinner
Did the groundhog see his shadow? Did he not see his shadow? Either way February 2 is going to be a good day because Mattitaco is teaming up with the Eat Me Drink Me Truck for a dueling dinner experience like no other. The first-ever Punxatawny Phil Beer Dinner is a repeating three-course private dinner. What is that you ask?
One chef from each restaurant will present their take on a burger, taco and dessert. Then it is the other chef’s turn to share their interpretation of the dishes. That is six dishes for a $60 ticket.
There are two seatings at 5:30 and 8 p.m. Vegetarian options are available by prior request only. The dinner is being hosted at Mattitaco located at 10560 Main Road in Mattituck. Get tickets here.
Blending Session at Martha Clara Vineyards
Take advantage of this cool course allowing you to make your own wine. Join Martha Clara’s winemaker Lilia Perez for a special tasting and blending session on Saturday, Feb. 2 from 1 to 4 p.m. The three-hour class allows you to create your own Bordeaux style red blend from a mixture of four different red wine varieties. As you blend you’ll enjoy cheese, charcuterie and chocolate. And when you’re done, you’ll receive two bottles to take home and share with your friends and family. The tickets are $70 and can be purchased here.
Open play cornhole at the Greenport American Legion
The Greenport American Legion may be best known for its year-round roller skating rink, but Thursday nights it is all about the classic lawn game of cornhole. The games are held indoors so no need to worry about braving the cold. The Legion also makes it easy for anyone to partake whether they are a local legend in the game or they’ve never picked up a beanbag in their life. No experience or teammates are required and the equipment is provided for a $10 entry fee. There’s even a chance to win prizes. Cornhole nights are every Thursday from 7 to 10 p.m.
Winter lecture series at Hallockville Museum Farm
Hallockville Museum Farm is hosting a three-part winter lecture series. Coffee and a Good Book: Exploring Land, History and Traditions explores the facets at the core of the non-profit’s mission — honoring the land, celebrating history and sharing traditions. Hampton Coffee Company, which is sponsoring the series, will begin each lecture with a presentation about their coffee philosophy and with samples.
The first talk is set for Sunday, February 10 at 1 p.m. The topic is “The Healing Power of Nature” where presenter John P. Cardone will share a practical exploration on how spending time with nature can influence a person’s health and well-being. Other talks are scheduled for Feb. 24 and March 10. Find out more information at hallockville.com.
Comedy at the brewery
Enjoy some laughs over a few beers at Jamesport Farm Brewery. One Wednesday night each month during the winter the brewery extends its hours for a special evening of comedy. Dates are set for Feb. 13 and March 13. The shows start at 8 a.m. and tickets are $20 per person. Get tickets here.
Valentine’s Day Sip & Frost
Delight your significant other with something besides a bouquet of roses this Valentine’s Day week. A Cake In Time and Wines By Nature at the Shoppes at East Wind are co-hosting this interactive pairing. The $35 cost per person includes two different wines and a selection of mini cupcakes — but that is just the beginning. Each participant also receives a set of four full-sized cupcakes, frosting, decorations and instructions. The rest is up to your imagination. Take them home and enjoy them later. It’s an open house format, meaning you can drop in any time between 7 and 9 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 15. Get tickets in advance here.
Take a doll-making class
Little Miss Sew It All in Wading River is hosting a two-hour doll making class on Wednesday, Feb. 13 from 5 to 7 p.m. Each $70 class includes all you need to make a beautiful handmade rag doll or three outfits for your own American Girl doll. Come once or come each month, classes meet the second Wednesday of every month. Participants must be at least six years old to join in. Get more details on how to sign up here..
Full moon hike at Downs Farm Preserve
If you think the outdoors can only be enjoyed during warm-weather months, you’re missing out on some beautiful experiences that can only be had in winter. Group for the East End is hosting a full moon hike under the Wolf Moon on Tuesday, Feb. 19 from 5:30 to 7 p.m at Downs Farm Preserve in Cutchogue. If you’re unfamiliar with the Wolf Moon, this is a perfect family-friendly opportunity to find out more about this awe-inspiring natural wonder. Come prepared with sturdy shoes and flashlights. For more information, contact Aaron Virgin at 631-765-6450 ext. 218 or [email protected].
Winterfest Kickoff Party
Winterfest is returning with guided tours to help visitors — and local staycationers — make the most of winter on the North Fork. The five-week celebration of local culture gets underway on Friday, Feb. 22 with a kickoff party from 7 to 10 p.m. at Hotel Indigo East End, featuring live music by the East End Trio and Paul Mahos of New Life Crisis. Restaurants, wineries and breweries will offer special tastings and there will be a Chinese auction. Tickets are on sale for $40 or pay $50 at the door. For tickets and information about participating vendors, concert schedules, bus tours or the kick-off party, visit longislandwinterfest.com.
Jam sessions at Borghese
Beat the winter blues by heading over to Castello di Borghese on Tuesdays for an old-fashioned jam session. The Cutchogue winery is extending its hours to 9 p.m. Tuesdays for the informal musical collaborations. Have an instrument? Bring it. And if you don’t, come for the $5 mulled wine special, small bites menu and play some classic board games like chess, checkers and dominos.
