What Nassau Homeowners Should Know About Their 2026–27 School Tax Bills
Nassau County homeowners should begin receiving their 2026–27 school tax bills in late September or early October, with the first half due November 10, 2026 and the second half due May 10, 2027. School taxes typically make up about 60%–75% of a Long Island property tax bill, and the amount each homeowner pays is influenced by the school district’s tax levy, the district’s total taxable assessed value, the homeowner’s assessment and any exemptions. Importantly, the article notes that a homeowner’s bill can increase by more than 2% even when a district remains within the state property-tax cap—for example, if the home’s assessment increased faster than the district average or an exemption was reduced or lost.
If your bill is higher than expected, the article recommends first checking your assessed value and exemptions, including STAR and any senior or veterans exemptions for which you qualify. Home improvements added to the assessment roll and certain special-district costs can also contribute to an increase. If there appears to be an error on the bill itself, homeowners should contact the appropriate tax receiver; if the issue is the property’s assessed value, Nassau homeowners can challenge the assessment for the following tax year through the grievance process. The article lists March 31, 2027 as the Nassau filing deadline.
More New Yorkers May Now Qualify for Utility Bill Discounts
New York State has expanded its Energy Affordability Program (EAP), making an estimated 2.5 million additional households eligible for monthly discounts on their utility bills. Nearly one million households are already enrolled, and the state says as many as half of all New York households may now qualify. Depending on household income, the program can save residents hundreds of dollars per year, with discounts designed to help keep typical energy costs below 6% of household income.
The expansion could be particularly helpful for Nassau County residents, where eligibility is now based on area median income. For National Grid Long Island customers, the listed income limits range from $115,450 for a one-person household to $164,900 for a four-person household, with higher limits for larger families. Households receiving benefits such as SNAP, Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income and certain veterans’ benefits may also qualify, although some must enroll themselves rather than being automatically enrolled. New Yorkers can check eligibility and apply through the state’s Energy Affordability Program website. To Read the complete article click here
Upcoming Community and Family Events
Illustration online Mentorship- 9/28 @ 8pm - 10pm Young artists looking to take their creativity to the next level can sharpen their skills with Winged Canvas’ Illustration Mentorship, a weekly virtual art program featuring guided instruction from professional artists. Students will explore advanced illustration techniques and learn the step-by-step process of turning their ideas and imagination into polished artwork, all while receiving personalized feedback and guidance in small online classes. Classes are held Mondays from 8–10 p.m. ET, with sessions scheduled through December 21. Because the program is completely online, students can participate from home, making it a convenient option for aspiring illustrators who want to build their skills, develop their individual artistic style and learn from experienced professionals. The program uses the Skool online community platform, which is 13+, so a parent or guardian may need to register on behalf of younger participants. For more information click here
2026 Heritage Fall Festival- 9/28- 11/01 10am- 4:30pm Celebrate the season with a day of classic autumn fun at the Heritage Fall Festival, running September 26 through November 1 from 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. at 6050 Northern Boulevard in Muttontown. Families can enjoy a corn maze, hay rides, kids’ crafts, farm animals, pumpkins, fall treats, lawn games, live music and plenty of festive photo opportunities surrounded by the sights and colors of fall. Designed for all ages, the festival is a great way to make seasonal memories with family and friends, whether you’re searching for the perfect pumpkin, visiting the animals or simply enjoying a crisp fall day outdoors. The festival takes place rain or shine, and parking is free. For more information click here
Spookyfest @ Center For Science Teaching & Learning 10/02 - 10/25 6pm- 9pm Get into the Halloween spirit at Spooky Fest, returning to the Center for Science Teaching & Learning at Tanglewood Preserve in Rockville Centre for four weekends of October fun. Running Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from October 2–25, from 6–9 p.m., the festival offers something for different scare levels. Younger children can explore the Enchanted Forest Walk, filled with friendly characters, dinosaurs, a Mystic Garden and Cinderella, along with arts and crafts, face painting, fortune telling, a glow tent and Halloween music. For those who prefer a few screams with their Halloween fun, the Spooky Woods adds zombie robotic dinosaurs and frightening scenes along a haunted walk. Non-scary admission is $22, while the $27 all-attraction ticket includes the Spooky Woods; children under 2 are free. Even better, Spooky Fest is the nonprofit science center's major annual fundraiser, helping support its work in science education and animal care. For more information click here
Touch A Truck ‘26- 10/03 10am- 1am Buckle up for a hands-on family adventure as Merrick Library presents its annual Touch-A-Truck event! Children and families will have the opportunity to get an up-close look at the impressive vehicles that help keep our community moving, from emergency-service vehicles to public works trucks and more. Kids can explore the vehicles, learn what they do, and meet some of the people who operate them. This popular community event is a great outing for little ones who love trucks, big machines, and anything on wheels, while giving families a fun and educational look at the important vehicles they may see around town every day. Merrick Library has described its annual event as one of Long Island’s largest Touch-A-Truck experiences. For more information click here
2026 Grand Baldwin Festival- 10/03 12pm- 4:30pm Celebrate everything that makes Baldwin special at the Grand Baldwin Festival, returning Saturday, October 3, from 12–4:30 p.m. in the municipal parking lot behind the Baldwin Public Library. This community-wide celebration brings together residents, local businesses and organizations for an afternoon featuring a pop-up marketplace, food vendors, live musical performances, an art showcase, and activities for all ages. Visitors can sample offerings from local restaurants, cafés and bakeries while browsing vendors and enjoying entertainment throughout the afternoon. More than just a fun day out, the festival is designed to strengthen community pride and support Baldwin. Funds raised help support community-building projects, local events and scholarships for Baldwin students who give back to their community. The rain date is Sunday, October 4. Bring the family, meet your neighbors, support local businesses and enjoy an afternoon celebrating the people and places that make Baldwin home. For more information click here.
Variety Child Learning Center's Third Annual Boo! Walk- 10/04 10am-1pm Start your Sunday with good food, good music, and great vibes at the Doubles N Dumplin Breakfast Fete, happening Sunday, September 27, from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. at Cancun Long Island in Hicksville. This daytime Caribbean-inspired celebration brings together breakfast, brunch, music, and island energy for a lively way to spend your Sunday with friends. Come hungry and ready to move as DJ AK provides the soundtrack for the day while guests enjoy the festive atmosphere and Caribbean flavors. The party takes place at Cancun LI, 206 W. Old Country Road in Hicksville. Gather your crew and get ready to eat, dance, socialize, and enjoy a Sunday filled with food, music, and plenty of positive vibes! For more information click here.
Get ready for one big party in the street as the Village of Massapequa Park Street Fair returns on Sunday, October 4, from 10:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. The celebration will take over Park Boulevard and Front Street, bringing together more than 150 craft vendors and artisans, food trucks, live bands, and plenty of shopping and entertainment for a festive fall day in the heart of the village. Families can also stop by the Kids Fun Zone, and the New York Islanders will be part of the festivities. With food to sample, local vendors to discover, music to enjoy and activities for the kids, it’s a great opportunity to spend the day outdoors while supporting local businesses and makers. Admission is free, and the scheduled rain date is Sunday, October 11. For more information click here
Upcoming Nightlife Events
Silent Book Club & Tea Workshop- 9/28- 11/30 7pm- 8pm Slow down, settle in and enjoy some quiet reading time at the Silent Book Club & Tea Workshop, a cozy gathering for book lovers looking to relax and connect. Bring whatever book you’re currently reading, find a comfortable spot and enjoy an hour of uninterrupted silent reading with a complimentary cup of fresh tea. Feel free to bring a favorite snack, blanket or pillow to make yourself at home. Afterward, guests who wish to stay can chat about their books, exchange recommendations and connect with fellow readers in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. This free event takes place every Monday from September 28 through November 30, but there’s no commitment to attend every week. Each session stands on its own, so come whenever your schedule allows and enjoy the perfect blend of quiet time, good books, warm tea and community. For more information click here
Comedy Night at Borrelli’s Taproom- 9/29 5:30pm doors- 7pm Show Start Get ready for a night of big laughs at Borrelli’s Taproom in Long Beach on Tuesday, September 29, featuring comedians Aaron Berg and Brendan Sagalow, with Ryan Reiss serving as host. Expect an energetic evening of stand-up as these seasoned comics bring their distinct styles and plenty of laughs to the Borrelli’s stage. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., giving guests time to grab dinner and drinks before the 7 p.m. show. Located at 912 W. Beech Street in Long Beach, this comedy night makes for a fun midweek outing with friends or date night. Tickets are limited and available through Eventbrite. For more information click here
Mahjong at Sangria 71- 9/29 6:30pm- 9:30pm Sip, play and connect at a fun evening of Mahjong at Sangria 71 in Williston Park, presented by NY Mahjong Corp. Happening Tuesday, September 29, from 6:30–9:30 p.m., the night begins with light bites from 6:30–7 p.m., followed by Mahjong play from 7–9:30 p.m. Guests can enjoy two glasses of sangria or soda included with the event, making it a relaxed opportunity to play, socialize and meet fellow Mahjong enthusiasts. Whether you’re coming with friends or looking to make new connections around the table, settle in for an evening of good food, drinks and friendly play. For more information click here
Soundful Sounds on Long Island- 9/30 7pm Step into an intimate, candlelit evening of music, comedy and vintage glamour when Soulful Sounds on Long Island comes to Jeanne Rimsky Theater - Landmark on Main Street in Port Washington on Wednesday, September 30, from 7–9 p.m. Inspired by the Harlem Renaissance, the show features NYC duo Acute Inflections, blending jazzy R&B and soulful sounds with humor and storytelling for a night that feels both classic and contemporary. Guests are welcome to dress in Gatsby-inspired attire or their own personal style, and complimentary snacks will be available during the show. Tickets are $40, and a portion of every ticket supports the Renaissance Youth Center, a South Bronx nonprofit providing music education, tutoring and after-school programs for young people. It’s a unique option for a date night, friends’ night out or anyone looking for something a little different from the usual dinner-and-drinks routine. For more information click here
Logic & G-Eazy: The Endless Summer Tour Part II- 9/30 7pm Get ready for a big night of hip-hop under the stars as Logic and G-Eazy bring The Endless Summer Tour Part II to Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater on Wednesday, September 30, at 7 p.m. The co-headlining tour brings together two artists known for distinctive styles and catalogs packed with fan favorites, giving Long Island concertgoers a chance to experience both performers on one stage. With the waterfront setting of Jones Beach as the backdrop, fans can expect an energetic evening filled with hip-hop, memorable hits, and plenty of crowd-ready moments. Whether you've followed Logic or G-Eazy for years or simply want to close out September with a major outdoor concert, gather your crew and enjoy a night of live music at one of Long Island's most iconic venues. For more information click here
FUNK FLEX INVADES FIRST FRIDAYS- 10/02 9pm Get ready for a late-night dose of New York hip-hop energy when Funk Flex Invades First Fridays on Friday, October 2, at Cancun long island in Hicksville. The legendary New York DJ and radio personality takes over the popular First Fridays party for a night of music, dancing and high-energy nightlife, which will also serve as a Libra celebrity birthday bash for Joe Jaxson. The party runs from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. at 206 W. Old Country Road and is open to guests 21 and older. Free parking is available. Gather your crew, hit the dance floor and kick off October with a night built for hip-hop fans and anyone looking for a lively Friday night out on Long Island. For more information click here
For the Love of Freestyle- 10/03 7:30pm Get ready for a night of classic dance music as For the Love of Freestyle takes over Flagstar at Westbury Music Fair on Saturday, October 3, 2026. The concert brings together an all-star lineup of freestyle favorites, including Lisa Lisa, George Lamond, Judy Torres, Cynthia, Betty D of Sweet Sensation, Coro, Soave, The Cover Girls, and C-Bank. The evening will be hosted by Sal Abbatiello and Speedy, with music by Johnny Shine. Fans can look forward to an energetic night filled with the songs and sounds that helped define the freestyle era, along with a special dedication honoring the memory of Rob Base. Gather your friends, put on your dancing shoes, and enjoy an evening of nostalgia, timeless hits, and nonstop freestyle at one of Long Island's legendary music venues. For more information click here
Great Eats For the Week
ACASA Italian Restaurant ACASA Italian in Williston Park offers a modern take on classic Italian dining in a stylish yet welcoming setting. The menu is made for sharing, with favorites like baked clams, meatballs, grilled octopus and burrata, alongside fresh pastas including Bolognese, carbonara, cacio e pepe and spicy vodka. Heartier selections range from Chicken ACASA and whole branzino to steaks and seafood. With its lively bar, contemporary dining room and warm neighborhood feel, ACASA works equally well for date night, dinner with friends or a family celebration. It delivers familiar Italian flavors with an elevated touch while maintaining the comfortable, inviting atmosphere of a local favorite. For more information click here
Bun & Bone Tucked away at 12-53 150th Street in Whitestone, Bone & Bun brings an elevated approach to comfort food while still maintaining the welcoming feel of a neighborhood restaurant. It’s the kind of spot that works just as well for a relaxed dinner with friends as it does for a date night or special occasion. The New York City Hospitality Alliance recently highlighted the restaurant for its combination of elevated comfort food, warm hospitality and lively neighborhood energy. The menu puts a refined spin on familiar favorites, with the Duck Breast à l’Orange singled out as a go-to dish in the Hospitality Alliance’s 2026 District Dining Guide. What makes Bone & Bun especially appealing is the balance—it aims to deliver food that feels a little more special without losing the comfort and approachability of a neighborhood gathering place. For anyone exploring Whitestone’s growing dining scene, Bone & Bun is a spot worth putting on the list, whether you’re stopping in for dinner or looking for somewhere new to enjoy a night out. For more information click here
Community
The Generational Wealth Book Club- 9/29 7pm Turn the page toward a stronger financial future with The Generational Wealth Book Club, a community focused on learning, meaningful conversation and building a lasting legacy. Through powerful books and engaging group discussions, participants can explore ideas surrounding money, financial knowledge, wealth building and the importance of passing valuable lessons on to future generations.
With the motto “Knowledge Today. Wealth Tomorrow. Legacy Forever,” the club encourages members to do more than simply read—it’s about taking what you learn and putting it into practice. Whether you’re beginning your financial journey or looking to expand your knowledge, come ready to read, discuss, learn and grow alongside others committed to building stronger financial futures for themselves and their families. For more information about this event click here
Happening In Nassau
New Parent & Grandparent Resource Fair- 10/04 12:30pm
Whether you’re a new parent, an experienced grandparent, or helping care for a little one, the New Parent & Grandparent Resource Fair is a great opportunity to discover helpful resources available right in your community. Families can stop by to explore local organizations and services, including valuable programs and resources available through their library card. Throughout the event, attendees can enjoy a variety of informative sessions covering topics designed to support families, visit resource tables, ask questions and connect with other parents and grandparents. Come learn something new, meet other local families and discover the many programs, services and resources available to help you and your family thrive. For more information about this event click here
Helping Hands
The Great Give Back Feminine Hygiene Charity Drives- 10/01-10/31 Make a difference close to home this October by supporting Great Neck Library’s “The Great Give Back” Charity Drives, running October 1–31 at all four Great Neck Library locations. As part of a statewide community-service initiative, the library is collecting essential items through three separate drives: feminine hygiene products, diapers and baby wipes, and full-size personal-care products such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, hand soap and women’s Depends. Donations will help people and families throughout the community. Diapers and wipes will benefit local parents through the Allied Foundation, while personal-care products will support the Sid Jacobson JCC Community Needs Bank, which serves a network of local pantries and shelters. Feminine hygiene donations will be assembled into kits by teen volunteers and made available to those in need. Donations can be dropped off at the Main, Lakeville, Parkville or Station branches throughout October. It’s a simple way to give back and help make sure our neighbors have access to everyday essentials. For more information click here
Orkestai Farm Harvest Moon Fall Festival and Fundraiser- 10/03 3:30pm- 6:30pm
Celebrate the beauty of fall while supporting a meaningful local mission at the Harvest Moon Fall Festival & Fundraiser, happening Saturday, October 3, from 3:30–6:30 p.m. at Orkestai Farm inside Planting Fields Arboretum in Oyster Bay. This family-friendly autumn gathering celebrates the harvest and the contributions of the farm’s neurodiverse growers with farm-fresh food from local chefs, local beverages, live music by Andes Manta, community dancing, art, an eggplant parmigiana demonstration, apple-cider pressing and even an onion-eating contest. Children under 10 are free, and the event is scheduled to take place rain or shine. More than a fall celebration, the evening is an important fundraiser for Orkestai Farm, a nonprofit whose mission brings together ecological agriculture, expressive arts, neurodiversity and community inclusion. Proceeds will help the organization develop its next chapter, a “Living Campus” designed to create an enduring home where farming, creativity, ecology and a sense of belonging can flourish together. Come enjoy an autumn evening on the farm while helping cultivate opportunities for neurodiversity, biodiversity and a stronger, more inclusive community. Learn more about this fund raiser
Highway and State Route Closures
Dogwood Avenue (Franklin Square): The Nassau County Department of Public Works begins a roadway improvement project on Dogwood Avenue between Colonade Road and Nassau Boulevard starting September 28, 2026. Expect daytime lane closures and minor delays between 7:00 AM and 4:00 PM. The work is expected to last 6 to 8 weeks.
Town of Hempstead & Oyster Bay Corridors: Localized daytime and overnight shoulder/lane closures continue on various arterial state routes (such as portions of Sunrise Highway and local parkway connectors) as maintenance crews clear storm drains and finish late-season paving before winter weather approaches.
Before driving, check the 511NY map for live traffic updates.
Weather For The Week
A Final Note with a quote
Dear Nassau Plus Family,
There’s something special about autumn on Long Island. The cooler mornings arrive, the leaves begin trading their summer green for shades of red, orange and gold, and suddenly a simple drive through the neighborhood feels a little more beautiful. It’s the season of pumpkin picking, apple cider, fall festivals, football, cozy sweaters and comfort food, and, of course, the return of all those pumpkin and cinnamon treats we tell ourselves we’ve been waiting all year for.
Autumn also reminds us to slow down and appreciate the simple things. Take a walk through one of our local parks, visit a farmers market, spend an afternoon at a street fair, support a neighborhood restaurant or gather around the table with family and friends. The season never seems to last quite long enough, so enjoy the crisp air, take the pictures, make the plans and appreciate the people around you. Sometimes the best memories aren't made during elaborate vacations or expensive outings, they happen during an ordinary Saturday afternoon spent with people we care about.
As we enjoy the season, another important date is approaching: Election Day is Tuesday, November 3. Whatever your political views may be, voting is an opportunity to participate in decisions that affect our communities. Take some time to learn about the candidates and issues on your ballot, look beyond campaign advertisements and social-media posts, and consult multiple reliable sources so you can make your own informed choices. New York’s early voting period runs October 24 through November 1, and the deadline to register for the General Election is October 24. New York State Board of Elections
At Nassau Plus, we’ll continue doing what we love, helping you discover things to do, places to eat, local businesses to support, ways to save, opportunities to give back and stories that remind us there is plenty of good happening around us. Thank you for opening our newsletter each week and allowing us to be a small part of your life.
Enjoy the changing leaves, embrace the cooler days, make some wonderful memories, and don't forget to make your voice heard this election season.
Have a safe, healthy and beautiful week.
With gratitude,
The Nassau Plus Team
Local. Connected. Hopeful
“I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.” — L.M. Montgomery
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