What better way to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season than to get outdoors for some sunshine and fresh air, even if it there is a chill in the air. A variety of ranger-guided hikes and other programs are available this fall and winter at Fire Island National Seashore. For a complete listing of events and programs, see the online Calendar of Events. A few upcoming programs are highlighted below.
The Fire Island Wilderness Visitor Center, which is located at the southernmost end of William Floyd Parkway, is hosting several programs from late November through New Year's Day.
* Wednesday, Jan. 1, 10 am - 1 pm: New Year's Day Beach to Breach Hike. Celebrate the New Year on Fire Island with this 3-mile ranger-led hike to the breach at Old Inlet and back.
Special programs at the Fire Island Lighthouse this holiday season include an annual tree-trimming event, a reenactment of the 1953 flying Santa visit, and several other walks and tours.
* Sunday, December 8, 11 am - 1 pm: Winter Birding for Beginners. Meet at the Fresnel Lens Building for some bird watching basics. For all ages.
* Saturday, Dec. 14, 11:30 am - 12:30 pm: 11th Annual Reenactment of the Flying Santa visit to the Fire Island Lighthouse in 1953.
* Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2014, 10 am - 11am: New Year's Day Hike to the Lighthouse. Meet at Robert Moses Sate Park, Field #5 and celebrate the New Year with the Fire Island Lighthouse Preservation Society. Reservations required: 631-661-4876.
The William Floyd Estate has closed for the 2013 season, but guided nature walks and cultural history grounds tours are expected to begin in early 2014.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
