Nassau County Election 2026: What's on Your Ballot?
Election Day is Tuesday, November 3, 2026, and Nassau County residents will have the opportunity to vote in several important federal, state, county, and local elections. A new nonpartisan voter guide published by the Times Union helps residents understand which candidates are running, what offices are being contested, and how to prepare before heading to the polls.
Among the major races are New York Governor, featuring incumbent Kathy Hochul and challenger Bruce Blakeman; U.S. House of Representatives races in Congressional Districts 2, 3, and 4; and statewide contests for Attorney General and Comptroller. Voters will also decide races for the New York State Senate and Assembly, judicial positions, all 19 Nassau County Legislature districts, and certain town government offices, depending on where they live.
The interactive guide allows residents to enter their address to identify the races in their district, review candidate information, and explore campaign websites and financing details. It also explains New York's fusion voting system, in which a candidate may appear on more than one political party line. Because ballots vary by location, voters are encouraged to review their specific ballot before Election Day. To see the full guide click here
New technology will greet voters on Long Island
Nassau County voters will notice some changes at the polls this election season! With early voting beginning October 24, new voting machines and larger, double-sided ballots are being introduced across Long Island. The changes come as New York shifts many local elections to even-numbered years, placing more races on this year's ballot.
In Nassau County, voters will continue marking paper ballots, but new scanners will accommodate the longer, double-sided format. Most races will appear on the front, while judicial contests will be on the back. Election officials urge residents to check both sides before submitting their ballots to avoid missing any races.
Another change involves vote counting. Instead of transporting ballots to the Board of Elections in Mineola, Nassau County will count votes at individual precincts, potentially speeding up election-night results. Meanwhile, Suffolk County is introducing touchscreen machines with accessibility features, including adjustable text sizes and improved contrast.
🇺🇸 What Voters Should Know: Early voting runs October 24–November 1, and Election Day is Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Residents should review their ballots carefully, familiarize themselves with the new equipment, and confirm their polling locations. Remember: Your ballot has two sides—make sure your voice is heard! To Read the complete article click here
Upcoming Community and Family Events
Spooky Fall Floral Frenzy Activity- 10/26- 10/31 Get into the Halloween spirit with a creative twist at the Spooky Fall Floral Frenzy Workshop, hosted by Floreum & Flame! This festive, hands-on experience brings together the beauty of autumn flowers and the playful charm of Halloween. Enjoy an opportunity to unleash your creativity as you design your own seasonal floral arrangement, combining fall-inspired colors, textures, and spooky flair. Whether you're a flower enthusiast, a beginner looking to try something new, or simply searching for a fun seasonal outing with friends, this workshop offers a delightful way to celebrate autumn while creating something beautiful to take home. For more information click here
Children’s Art Instruction- 10/27- 12/23 4pm- 6pm Let your child's creativity shine at The Tiny Artist Studio in Massapequa! Designed for young artists ages 4 to 16, these engaging art classes provide a wonderful opportunity for children to explore their artistic talents, develop new skills, and express themselves through creativity. Whether your child is just discovering a love for art or already enjoys creating masterpieces, these weekly sessions offer a fun and inspiring environment to learn, experiment, and bring their imagination to life! The studio also offers special project classes, Mommy & Me activities, adult Sip & Paint experiences, and birthday parties, making it a creative destination for the whole family. For more information click here
Belmont Park Village’s October Halloween Celebrations- 10/28-10/31 Get ready for a frightfully fun Halloween celebration at Belmont Park Village in Elmont! Throughout October, families are invited to enjoy a festive mix of Halloween activities, sweet treats, live music, and shopping. Explore the FREE Slightly Spooky Maze, created in collaboration with the New York Islanders, decorate your own pumpkin, and enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities. On Halloween Day, the excitement continues with a special performance by The Rock and Roll Playhouse, complimentary face painting, treats at participating boutiques, and more! Costumes are encouraged, so bring your little ghosts, goblins, and superheroes for a memorable day of seasonal fun! For more information click here
The Virus Escape Room “Can You Find The Cure In Time”- 10/26-10/31 various times A scientific experiment has gone terribly wrong, and now your survival depends on solving the mystery! At Challenge Escape Rooms in Rockville Centre, you and your team have been accidentally infected with a deadly virus during an experimental drug trial. The laboratory is under quarantine, and there's only one way out: find the vaccine before it's too late! With just 60 minutes on the clock, you'll need to uncover hidden clues, solve challenging puzzles, and work together to escape. This immersive, family-friendly adventure combines mystery, excitement, and teamwork without the scares, making it a great outing for friends, families, and puzzle enthusiasts! For more information click here
Bingo Thursday Nights - 10/29 6:30pm- 10pm Get ready to shout BINGO! and enjoy an exciting evening of fun, friendly competition, and the chance to win big at the Knights of Columbus in Lynbrook! Whether you're a seasoned bingo enthusiast or just looking for an entertaining night out, Thursday Night Bingo offers a welcoming atmosphere where friends, neighbors, and newcomers can gather for an evening of games and excitement. With $2,000 in cash prizes advertised, every game brings another opportunity to test your luck and celebrate a winning moment! Electronic bingo computers are also available, making it easy to join in on the action. For more information click here
Halloween Treat Alert! Kids Eat FREE at Applebee's on Long Island!- 10/31 This Halloween, the treats aren't just for trick-or-treaters! Doherty-owned Applebee's locations across Long Island are celebrating the spookiest day of the year with a delicious, family-friendly offer that's sure to make parents smile! On Saturday, October 31, children ages 12 and under who arrive dressed in costume can enjoy a FREE meal from the kids' menu with the purchase of an adult entrée. Whether your little ones are dressed as superheroes, princesses, witches, or their favorite Halloween characters, it's a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a tasty meal together before or after a day of Halloween adventures. Best of all, this special offer is available all day, making it easy to fit into your family's spooky celebrations! For more information click here
Stem X Festival 2026- 10/31- 11/01 10am- 3pm Get ready for a weekend of discovery, creativity, and hands-on excitement as the STEM•X Festival returns to the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City! Hosted by Morrison Mentors, this FREE, family-friendly event invites children, parents, and curious minds of all ages to explore the amazing world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). From programming robots and piloting drones to exploring virtual reality, 3D printing, coding, and exciting science experiments, there's something to spark everyone's imagination! Enjoy interactive demonstrations, meet innovators, and discover how technology shapes our world. No previous experience is needed—just bring your curiosity and enthusiasm for learning! For more information click here
Upcoming Nightlife Events
The Haunted Hotel Escape Room – Can You Check Out Before It's Too Late? 10/26 multiple times available What begins as an unexpected overnight stay quickly turns into a terrifying nightmare! A violent storm forces you off the road, leaving an old, isolated hotel as your only shelter. The glowing VACANCY sign offers a little hope, but once you check in and enter your room, the door locks behind you! Something sinister is happening inside this mysterious hotel, and you could be its next victim. Gather your courage, solve challenging puzzles, uncover hidden clues, and work together to escape before time runs out. With only 60 minutes to discover the hotel's dark secrets, will you make it out alive, or become another permanent guest? For more information click here
Retro Fitness Oceanside Halloween Open House Party 10/27 5pm- 8pm Get ready for a frightfully fun evening of fitness, costumes, and Halloween excitement at Retro Fitness in Oceanside! Members and non-members alike are invited to this FREE Halloween-themed Open House Party, where guests can dress in their favorite costumes, explore the gym, and enjoy access to the club's amenities. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, curious about joining a gym, or simply looking for a fun way to celebrate Halloween, this event offers a great opportunity to experience Retro Fitness in a festive and welcoming atmosphere. Plus, enjoy $1 off smoothies while you're there! For more information click here
Not Just Hustle Wednesdays – Halloween Costume Party at Cancun Long Island!- 10/28 6:30 pm Put on your dancing shoes and your favorite Halloween costume for a spooktacular night of music, dancing, and fun at Cancun Long Island in Hicksville! Join the Not Just Hustle Wednesdays crew for a special Halloween celebration featuring Disco America Hall of Fame DJ Steve Neeran, spinning tunes to keep the dance floor moving all evening. Show off your creativity in the Halloween Costume Contest, with prizes for first and second place, while enjoying a lively atmosphere filled with friendly faces and great music. Celebrating a birthday? Ask about the special birthday offer, which includes complimentary admission and birthday cake! For more information click here
Open Mic Night & Mixer Where Talent Meets Connection!- 10/29 8:30pm- 11:30pm Get ready for an evening of creativity, entertainment, and new connections at Open Mic Night & Mixer in Rockville Centre! Whether you're an aspiring singer, poet, comedian, spoken-word artist, or simply someone who enjoys discovering local talent, this event is a great opportunity to share your passion and connect with others. Step up to the microphone, express yourself, or sit back and enjoy an evening of performances and socializing in a welcoming atmosphere. For more information click here
Halloween Show- '90s & 2000s Style at The Warehouse!- 10/30 6:30pm Get ready to turn back the clock and rock out this Halloween at The Warehouse in Amityville! This electrifying throwback celebration combines the nostalgia of the '90s and 2000s with the excitement of Halloween for a night of live music, unforgettable hits, and spooky fun! Enjoy performances by three incredible tribute and cover bands, including Hella Doubt, bringing the iconic sounds of No Doubt and Gwen Stefani; Millenium Mixtape, delivering an energetic mix of Y2K For more information click here
Nightmare On The Mile- 10/31 10pm- 2am Get ready for a wickedly exciting Halloween night as Nightmare on the Mile takes over Prime on the Mile in Freeport! This waterfront Halloween celebration promises three floors of music, food, drinks, and nonstop party energy. Dress to impress, dance the night away, and show off your most creative, spooky, or outrageous Halloween look for a chance to win prizes in the Best Male and Best Female Costume Contests! Even better, guests arriving in costume before 11 PM can enjoy FREE admission and complimentary drinks during the promotional period. Whether you're celebrating with friends or looking for an unforgettable Halloween night out, this costume ball is ready to bring the excitement to Freeport's famous Nautical Mile! For more information click here
SCREAM R&B Halloween Costume Affair – A Spooktacular Night of Music & Dancing!- 10/31 11pm- 4am. Get ready to sing, dance, and celebrate Halloween in style at the SCREAM R&B Halloween Costume Affair at Cancun Long Island in Hicksville! This adults-only Halloween bash brings together the smooth sounds of R&B, the energy of trap, and the infectious rhythms of dancehall for an unforgettable night on the dance floor. Dress in your most creative, spooky, or stylish costume for a chance to win a FREE bottle in the Best Costume Giveaway! Ladies arriving in costume before midnight can enjoy FREE admission, and special bottle packages are available for groups looking to celebrate in style. Whether you're coming for the music, the costumes, or the party atmosphere, prepare for a Halloween night filled with excitement! For more information click here
Great Eats For the Week
Long Island Restaurant Week Get ready to explore Long Island's incredible dining scene as Long Island Restaurant Week celebrates its 20th anniversary! From November 1–8, 2026, participating restaurants across Long Island will offer specially priced menus, giving food lovers the perfect opportunity to discover new favorites, revisit beloved local eateries, and enjoy delicious meals at exceptional values. Whether you're planning a romantic dinner, a family outing, or a night out with friends, there's something to satisfy every appetite! For more information click here
East Meadow Farm
Celebrate the flavors and colors of the fall harvest at the East Meadow Farm Stand, hosted by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Nassau County! Stop by and discover a wonderful selection of fresh, locally grown vegetables, seasonal fruits, and beautiful cut flowers, all while supporting local agriculture and the hardworking people who help keep our community growing. Whether you're shopping for wholesome ingredients for your family's favorite meals, picking up fresh produce for the week, or bringing home a colorful bouquet to brighten your day, this farm stand offers a delightful opportunity to enjoy the season's bounty. It's also a great way to connect with Nassau County's agricultural community and appreciate the importance of fresh, locally grown food! For more information click here
Community
AI For Working Professionals 10/29 6pm- 7:30pm Artificial intelligence is changing the way we work, and now's your chance to discover how to put it to work for you! Hofstra University Continuing Education is offering AI for Working Professionals, an engaging five-week virtual course designed to help employees, business owners, career changers, and anyone looking to strengthen their professional skills explore the practical benefits of AI. Led by Dr. Mitch Kase, Executive Director of Hofstra's Center for Excellence in Learning, Teaching and Assessment, this hands-on program teaches participants how to use AI tools for everyday workplace tasks, including writing emails, conducting research, analyzing data, creating presentations, managing projects, and improving productivity. Participants will also learn how to write effective AI prompts, evaluate AI-generated information, recognize potential biases, and use these powerful tools responsibly. No advanced technical knowledge is necessary—just a willingness to learn and explore new possibilities! For more information about this event click here
Happening In Nassau
Give the Gift of Life! Blood Drive at
Mercy Hospital in Rockville Centre
One small act of kindness can make a lifesaving difference! Mercy Hospital in Rockville Centre is bringing the community together for a special blood drive, encouraging eligible donors to roll up their sleeves and help patients in need. Blood donations are essential for individuals undergoing surgery, cancer treatments, emergency care, and other critical medical procedures. Just one donation can potentially help save up to three lives! Whether you're a first-time donor or a regular contributor, your generosity can bring hope, healing, and a second chance to someone in need. For more information about click here
Helping Hands
Halloween Costume Party for Charity- 10/30 6pm Get ready for a Halloween celebration filled with great music, creative costumes, and community spirit! Join PUNCH (Playing Unique N Classic Hits) for a special Halloween Costume Party and Charity Fundraiser benefiting North Shore Animal League America! Enjoy an evening of live classic hits, show off your Halloween spirit in the Costume Contest, and try your luck in the 50/50 raffle. Whether you're coming to dance, enjoy the music, or support a wonderful cause, this festive gathering is an opportunity to have fun while helping animals in need. Donations are welcome, and proceeds will benefit North Shore Animal League America's lifesaving mission. For more information click here
9 H.U.G.S. – Spreading Kindness, One Hug at a Time!
Based in Merrick, NY, 9 H.U.G.S. (Help Us Give & Share) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals and families in need, both locally and around the world. Through toy drives, food donations, clothing collections, baby supplies, and humanitarian relief efforts, this compassionate organization brings hope and essential resources to those facing difficult times. You Can Make a Difference! Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word, every act of kindness helps strengthen communities and brighten lives. Learn more about this fund raiser
Highway and State Route Closures
Long Island Expressway (Interstate 495): Periodic overnight lane reductions, HOV closures, and ramp maintenance across the Town of Oyster Bay and Town of North Hempstead.
Loop Parkway: Ongoing construction and bridge traffic reductions impacting the Reynolds Channel Bridge near Long Beach.
Sunrise Highway (State Route 27) & Hempstead Turnpike (State Route 24): Frequent rolling lane closures and overnight maintenance.
Parkways: Routine maintenance, paving, and bridge work affect the Southern State Parkway, Northern State Parkway, Meadowbrook State Parkway, Wantagh State Parkway, and Seaford-Oyster Bay Expressway (State Route 135) during off-peak and overnight hours.
Before driving, check the 511NY map for live traffic updates.
Weather For The Week
A Final Note with a quote
🍂 A Season of Comfort, Reflection, and Becoming Our Best Selves
Dear Nassau Plus Family,
There is something truly beautiful about the changing seasons. As autumn settles across Nassau County, the trees paint our neighborhoods in brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold, the air carries the familiar scent of fallen leaves, and each crisp morning reminds us that another chapter of the year is unfolding. There is a special anticipation that comes with cooler weather, a desire to slow down, find comfort, and appreciate life's simpler pleasures. So go ahead, pull out that favorite plush robe and those cozy slippers, or treat yourself to a new set! Stock up on your favorite hot beverages, warm treats, and all those little comforts that make coming home on a chilly evening feel especially wonderful. Sometimes, happiness is as simple as a warm cup in your hands and a peaceful moment to yourself.
With Thanksgiving approaching, we hope you're beginning to put together that special holiday menu or finalizing where you'll gather with family and friends. Whether you're hosting a house full of loved ones, visiting someone else's table, or celebrating quietly, we hope the holiday brings you warmth, gratitude, and meaningful connections. And while Thanksgiving is certainly a time to enjoy our favorite dishes and traditions, let's remember that the cooler months don't have to become a season of unchecked indulgence. Enjoy the foods you love, savor those special treats, but keep moderation and your overall well-being in mind. The decisions we make each day, even the smallest ones, can have a lasting impact on our health and happiness.
As nature prepares for winter, perhaps we can take a lesson from the butterfly resting within its cocoon. What appears to be a period of stillness is actually a time of remarkable transformation. Let this season become your own opportunity for growth, renewal, and self-improvement, so that when spring arrives, you emerge as an even better version of yourself. And please, don't wait for New Year's Day to declare that something in your life needs to change! There is no magical date on the calendar that gives us permission to become healthier, happier, kinder, or more disciplined. Every morning offers that opportunity. Whether it's improving your eating habits, becoming more active, strengthening relationships, or simply making more time for yourself, the best time to begin is whenever you decide you're ready.
We also encourage you to step outside and experience the beauty surrounding us. Take a peaceful walk through your favorite park, along a scenic trail, or beside the water. Breathe in the crisp morning air or embrace the quiet of a chilly evening. Give yourself permission to reflect on the best moments of this year, the difficult ones, and even the ordinary days that seemed to pass without much notice. Each has played a part in shaping who you are today. Find time to meditate, clear your mind, appreciate how far you've come, and consider where you'd like to go next. Life isn't always about rushing toward the next accomplishment. Sometimes, our greatest progress begins when we slow down long enough to understand ourselves.
And finally, to every member of our Nassau Plus family, thank you, sincerely and wholeheartedly, for continuing to spend a little of your valuable time with us each week. Your readership, encouragement, and support mean more than words can express. We are grateful for the opportunity to share the stories, events, businesses, and wonderful people who make Nassau County such a special place to call home. As the days grow shorter and the evenings cooler, may your homes be filled with warmth, your hearts with gratitude, and your minds with hope. Remember to care for yourselves, look out for one another, and never underestimate the difference a little kindness can make. Here's to enjoying the beauty of today while quietly becoming the people we hope to be tomorrow.
With heartfelt gratitude and warm wishes,
The Nassau Plus Team 🍁❤️
Local. Connected. Hopeful
If you could kick the person in the pants responsible for most of your trouble, you wouldn’t sit for a month.” — Theodore Roosevelt
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