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Something spooky is brewing in Port Jefferson — and broomsticks, witch hats and spell books are all welcome.
The first-ever Witches Day Out, a family-friendly Halloween celebration for all ages, will take over the village on Saturday, Oct. 11, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Organizer Kirsten Yadouga, owner of Kirsten Yadouga Creative, is hosting the event with promotional support from the Greater Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce and Business Improvement District.
She describes it as “a Small Business Saturday with a witchy twist.”
Nearly 40 local businesses are joining the fun, offering Halloween-inspired activities, sales and surprises. Participating shops will be marked with black balloons.
“I kind of saw an opportunity and wanted to run with it,” Yadouga said. “I’ve seen other Halloween-themed events in other towns, and it’s something I’m really into and really enjoy.”
What began as a small happy hour and shopping stroll quickly grew into a full-day villagewide celebration.
“We want people to go exploring and stumble into these magical situations,” Yadouga said.
The first 100 visitors to Chandler Square at 11 a.m. will receive a specially decorated tote bag to start their spellbound adventure.
Throughout the day, there will be costume contests, entertainment, arts and crafts, mystical activities and more. The Port Jefferson Free Library will also host themed programming, including a broom-making workshop, costume swap, spell jar craft, and a live folk musical called To Cry Witch.
Other spooky happenings include:
- “Legends and Lore: A Haunted History Walking Tour,” led by a docent from the Drowned Meadow Cottage Museum.
- A haunted booze cruise with Tiki Boat Long Island.
- A costume contest at Red Shirt Comics.
Some events require pre-registration or fees; details are available at iloveportjeff.com.
“It’s one of many super seasonal, amazing things to do on Long Island this time of year,” Yadouga said. “Plus, there’s something for everyone.”
And when the sun sets, the witches will swap their shopping bags for cocktail glasses. Witches Night Out, a bar crawl sponsored by the Port Jeff Restaurant Association, begins at 6 p.m.
Participants will receive five drink tokens redeemable at 15 local bars and restaurants.
For a full list of participating businesses and a map of the day’s events, follow @WitchesDayOut.PortJeff on Instagram.
A rain date is set for Oct. 12. See the map below.
Top: Witches Day Out organizer Kirsten Yadouga. (Credit: Tracey Elizabeth/courtesy)
