Long Island’s December Dog Events — Coastal Cheer for You and Your Pup
Long Island shines during the holiday season with sparkling lights, waterfront festivities, and plenty of places for dogs to join the fun. Whether you’re exploring charming villages, strolling the boardwalk, or warming up with seasonal treats, you’ll find no shortage of dog-friendly December events worth marking on the calendar.
This guide highlights some of the best dog-friendly events, meet-ups, markets, and activities happening throughout Long Island during the month of December. If you’re looking for festive fun, cozy winter adventures, or just a way to burn off your pup’s zoomies before the holiday chaos, you’re in the right place!
1. Holiday Dog Photos with Santa (Multiple Locations Across LI)
A December classic, Santa photo sessions are offered throughout Long Island at pet stores, rescues, boutique pet shops, and community centers. These events usually benefit local shelters, making them a heartwarming way to contribute during the season.
Popular locations include:
- PetSmart & Petco — Nationwide events with consistent scheduling
- Long Island Pet Supply (Huntington & Riverhead)
- Pet stores in Babylon, Patchogue, Smithtown, and Sayville
- Local rescues, including Last Chance Animal Rescue & Second Chance Rescue
Most photo sessions are free or donation-based, and many include treats, props, or festive dog goodie bags. It’s a great way to frame a holiday card or build a cute keepsake memory.
Tip: If your pup gets nervous around costumes or crowds, choose a weekday or early-morning session.
2. Long Island’s Holiday Light Walks (Dog-Friendly Nights!)
Long Island loves a holiday light show—and several of its most spectacular displays have designated dog-friendly nights in December. These magical strolls let your dog experience twinkling trails and festive music while staying warm in a coat or pajamas.
Dog-friendly light walk events may include:
- Smith Point County Park’s “Light the Night” Walkthrough
- Jones Beach Magic of Lights (Walk-Through Nights Only)
- Riverhead Holiday Light Show Walk-Throughs
These events often allow leashed dogs for one or two nights only, so December calendars should be checked early. The atmosphere is family-friendly, low-stress, and perfect for pups who enjoy leisurely outdoor adventures.
Tip: Bring your pup’s favorite LED collar so they stay visible in the low light.
3. Winter Markets & Dog-Friendly Holiday Shopping
Long Island’s vibrant market scene takes on a festive spirit in December, with many vendors welcoming dogs as long as they are leashed and well-mannered. These markets offer handmade gifts, local treats, and often, special goodies for pups.
Popular options include:
- Patchogue Winter Village Market
- Northport Holiday Market
- Port Jefferson Winter Market
- Sayville Miracle on Main Street Market
Some markets feature local dog bakeries, personalized dog ornament booths, and vendors specializing in winter coats and accessories for pups. It’s a great chance to pick up stocking stuffers and socialize your dog with holiday hustle and bustle.
4. Dog-Friendly Holiday Parades & Village Strolls
Many Long Island villages transform into festive wonderlands in December with parades, tree lightings, and holiday strolls—most of which welcome leashed dogs. These outdoor events are perfect for families and dogs who love to be part of the action.
Look for festivities in:
- Northport Village (Annual Holiday Stroll)
- Babylon Village Holiday Parade
- Port Jefferson Dickens Festival (dog-friendly sections!)
- Huntington Village Holiday Parade & Fair
The Dickens Festival is especially unique: you’ll see period characters, live carolers, and decked-out storefronts—all while your dog gets plenty of attention from admirers.
5. Long Island Dog Park Snow Play Meetups
December often brings the season’s first dusting of snow, making it a perfect month for dog park playdates. Many communities plan informal group meets or themed holiday get-togethers at local parks.
Popular dog parks for December meetups include:
- West Hills Dog Park (Huntington)
- Old Bethpage Dog Run
- Rockville Centre Dog Park
- Lake Ronkonkoma Dog Park
Some organized meetups encourage fun themes like ugly sweater contests, winter gear costume day, or festive pup social hour.
Tip: Make sure paws are protected—Long Island parks can get icy!
6. Brewery & Winery Holiday Events with Dogs
Long Island’s craft beverage scene is famously dog-friendly, and winter is no exception. Breweries and wineries often host December events such as holiday trivia, sweater contests, charity fundraisers, and ornament-making nights—many of which welcome pups.
Dog-friendly favorites include:
- Jamesport Farm Brewery
- Bright Eye Beer Co. (Long Beach)
- Six Harbors Brewing Co. (Huntington)
- Greenport Harbor Brewing Co.
- Duck Walk Vineyards
These events offer a warm indoor environment—great for dogs who prefer cozy holiday fun over chilly outdoor strolls.
7. Coastal Winter Walks on Dog-Friendly Beaches
Some of the best Long Island dog adventures in December happen not at structured events but simply along the shoreline. Many beaches become dog-friendly during the off-season, opening up long stretches for winter walks.
Popular winter-friendly dog beaches include:
- Montauk Beaches
- Smith Point Beach
- Cupsogue Beach
- Robert Moses (certain sections)
- Sagamore Hill Trails & Beach Access
December seaside walks are peaceful, scenic, and calming for anxious pups—and a great way to burn energy before holiday gatherings.
8. Charity Events & Rescue Fundraisers
The holiday season brings multiple charity events geared toward helping dogs in need. Many rescues and shelters host:
- Holiday photos
- Toy drives
- Fundraising brunches
- Adoption showcases
- “Santa Paws” donation events
- Holiday bake sales with dog treats
Long Island rescues to follow for December announcements include:
- Little Shelter Animal Rescue
- Almost Home Animal Rescue
- Islip Animal Shelter
- Oceanside & Hempstead Animal Shelters
Attending these events is a meaningful way to support the community while enjoying a festive outing with your dog.
Final Thoughts: December on Long Island Is Full of Dog-Friendly Cheer
December on Long Island is absolutely packed with dog-friendly holiday fun—from cozy indoor events to sparkling outdoor adventures. Whether you picture your dog sitting proudly on Santa’s lap, strolling through a village of twinkling lights, or leaping through winter waves on an empty beach, you’ll find something unforgettable to do every week of the month.
These experiences help keep dogs active, engaged, and emotionally enriched during the darker, colder season—and they create heartwarming memories you’ll treasure forever.