Montauk's reputation as a sleepy little fishing town that shuts down in the off-season won't hold true this Thanksgiving weekend, when there will be plenty of events to keep you busy whether you're home for the holidays or visiting from afar.
The hamlet's Thanksgiving traditions kick off early on Thursday, with the annual "run for fun" starting at 8 a.m. Whether you're a health fiend or just looking to walk off a few calories before that early afternoon dinner, participants are welcome to show up at The Circle between 8 and 9:30 a.m. to check in for three or six mile races around town. Sponsored by East Hampton Town's department of parks and recreation, pre-registration is not necessary, and the cost to enter is $10. The first 300 participants will recieve a commemerative t-shirt.
Too tired from trotting to deal with dinner? Restaurants serving Thanksgiving meals include Gurney's Inn, The Montauk Yacht Club, The Harvest on Fort Pond, and Manuccis. Be sure to call ahead for reservations and pricing.
Prior to the annual "lighting of the light" on Saturday, the will host a free children's party at the Montauk Yacht Club. Families are invited for caroling, cider, and an ornament decorating craft project between 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Hot chocolate and cookies will also be served.
Holiday shoppers can get their fix throughout the weekend at a number of stores in downtown Montauk. At Kailani, a Hawaiian inspired gift shop, the store contents will be offered at a 50 percent discount, Friday through Monday. On Saturday, the Christmas Fair and Rummage Sale takes place between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., and the Montauk Library will host a book sale between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
While holiday decorations at the lighthouse will remain through Christmas, the lighting of the light kickoff party takes place at the hamlet's easternmost tip between 4:30 and 7 p.m. There will live music, caroling, and a guest appearance by Santa Claus.
On Saturday night, music appreciators can dance off those leftovers at , where local legend Joe Delia and his band, Thieves, will rock the night away between 8 p.m. and midnight. There is no cover charge.
Finally, stop by the lighthouse on Sunday between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. for a second visit with Santa Claus. The man in red will be posing for photo opportunites there, thanks to a special invitation from the Montauk Chamber.
