Well, here we are: December. As we rejoice in all the holiday cheer and prepare for 2024, here are some North Fork events this month that we are excited to check out.
Shellabrate the winter season in Greenport
One of our favorite wintery events kicks off Saturday! The 12th annual Shellabration allows you to sample a multitude of locally caught, creative bites from Greenport’s culinary best, with proceeds benefitting the Cornell Cooperative Extension Marine Program’s Back to the Bays initiative as well as the SPAT Program to fund marine habitat and shellfish restoration (you know we need it!!). The event runs both Saturday and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m., with purchased wristbands ($35) getting you discounted $8 tastes and $5 drink pairings from designated eateries. Find more information and purchase wristbands here; click here to find out where to pick up your wristband and let the Shellabrating begin!
Jog to some Jingle Bells
Head to Long Island’s largest Christmas tree farm for the chance to run through the pines as you welcome the holiday season. On Saturday, Dec. 9, Lewin Farms in Calverton will host the first annual Jingle Bell Jog 5K and Rudolph’s Fun Run. All participants will be given bells to attach to their sneakers to add to the holiday spirit and awards will be given to the overall race winners. Plus, sip on some hot chocolate, snap pictures with Santa, enter tree and wreath raffles and dress your best for the holiday costume contest. Registration for the 5K is $30 in advance and $35 the day of and the fun run is $15 in advance and $20 the day of. The festivities kick off at 8:30 a.m. Find more information on their website. Lewin Farms is located at 812 Sound Ave., Calverton.
Watch a Christmas Classic
While a bit off the Fork, this Christmas tradition is a can’t-miss. Travel through a snowy wonderland and into the Land of Sweets during the Peconic Ballet Theater’s performance of The Nutcracker at Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center. Be dazzled by the talents of dancers of all ages as they perform this Christmas classic on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 9 and 10. Tickets are $25 per person. Performances on Saturday will take place at noon and 7 p.m. and on Sunday at noon and 5 p.m. For tickets and more information, click here. Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center is located at 76 Main St, Westhampton Beach.
Decorate Cookies like the Pros
Level up your decorating skills this holiday season and get the inside scoop on how to create the perfect Christmas cookies. On Thursday, Dec. 7 head to Chronicle Wines in Peconic to meet Ali Katz, the beloved baker behind Ali Katz Kitchen in Mattituck. From 5:30 to 7 p.m., you will receive hands-on advice on how to frost and flood almond sugar cookies so they look neat and professionally decorated. Every attendee gets a glass of Chronicle Wine and light nibbles, plus 10% off any bottle purchases. $55.55 per person and you can prebook your tickets here. Chronicle Wines is located at 2885 Peconic Lane, Peconic.
‘Ring’ in the Holiday Cheer
Create your very own stunning holiday decoration perfect for adorning front doors or mantles. Guided by Diana Conklin from Everlastings by Diana, learn how to use locally sourced greens, dried flowers, seed pods, and berries to elevate your wreath beyond the basics. Whether you prefer ribbons, seashells, feathers, lights, or other personal items, Diana will be on hand to assist you in bringing your unique vision to life. Head to Southold Town Recreation Center on Sunday, Dec. 10 from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. for this festive crafting experience. Tickets are $40 per person and space is limited so book now. Don’t forget your gloves and clippers. The Southold Town Recreation Center is located at 970 Peconic Lane, Peconic.
Leave a Moment for Breath
With the chaos of the holidays, for most of us, it feels like we end the year without exhaling. “Breathe” is the Alex Ferrone Gallery‘s small works exhibition featuring serene, meditative photography, painting, mixed media and sculpture. Take a moment to relax and recharge for 2024 as you ponder the meaning behind these works created by both local and national artists. The exhibition is open until Monday, Jan. 15. The Alex Ferrone Gallery is located at 25425 Main Road, Cutchogue and is open Fridays and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. and on Saturdays from noon to 7 p.m. More information about specific works can be found here.
Take an Exclusive Foodie Tour
Get an exclusive look at the brand-new East End Food Hub and take a behind-the-scenes tour every Saturday this December. Check out the construction progress and learn about East End Food’s plans for the facility as the center for aggregation, processing and distribution of local food. After the tour, stick around and shop at East End Food Market to find some last-minute local gifts for the holiday season. These tours are free and thirty minutes each starting at 10 a.m. until noon. Find more information here. The new East End Food Hub is located in the same location, 139 Main Road, Riverhead.
Decorative Sippin’
Indulge in festive charm with Backyard Blooms at Bedell Cellars for a delightful combination of sipping and creativity. Wow your guests this holiday season by designing your very own floral centerpiece. All essential tools, vessels and florals will be supplied with the purchase of a ticket ($98.33 per person). Your ticket guarantees not only the crafting of a beautiful centerpiece but also a glass of wine to enhance the creative ambiance. The class is expected to for about an hour and a half beginning at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 21. Get your tickets here. Bedell Cellars is located at 36225 Main Road, Cutchogue.
Take a Culinary Journey Back in Time
Indulge in a decadent dinner party like none other on Friday, Dec. 8 at the Dimon Estate in Jamesport. During this Gatsby-themed wine pairing dinner four exquisite courses will be expertly complemented by a carefully selected wine from Lenz Winery. Immerse yourself in the Roarin’ 20s ambiance by dressing in the era’s iconic style and embark on a culinary journey filled with oysters “Baconfella,” black and white ravioli and duck leg confit. Finish off the meal with a decadent passionfruit panna cotta. Tickets are $119.22 per person and the festivities are from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Make your reservation here before it is too late. The Dimon Estate is located at 370 Manor Lane, Jamesport.
Have a Holiday Extravaganza
Take the ferry over to the Shelter Island Public Library on Saturday, Dec. 9 to partake in this year’s holiday extravaganza. Beginning at 1 p.m. join Miss Mollie in the community room for an afternoon of cookie decorating and fun holiday crafts. Sip on some hot chocolate as you listen to stories and await the arrival of Santa Claus. This is a free event and you can find more information here. The Shelter Island Public Library is located at 37 Ferry Road, Shelter Island.
