The Best Week March 2012

Something about March is making you feel nostalgic. It could be you’re antsy for spring and weather conducive to outdoor activities. It could be you like rain. Or maybe the first quarter of the year has you looking back at 2011 with more than a little yearning. Whatever it is, there is plenty to do to savor a taste of the past as you embark on the future, and in the meantime, have the best week…

3 Can’t Miss Events

March 18-25
Hamptons Restaurant Week

It’s back! Seven nights of special promotions at the East End’s participating restaurants, vineyards and lodging.Stay over at c/o The Maidstone and make it a getaway!

March 24
The Gala of Galas
Citi Field

The Ronald McDonald House of Long Island will celebrate 25 years at this unique event, to help the org as they “look back and move forward.” One lucky raffle entrant will win both a 1965 and a 2012 Ford Mustang! Visit rmhlongisland.org/raffle for details.

March 31
Anne Fontaine Charity Shopping Event
Americana Manhasset

This spring shopping event benefits The Nassau County Coalition Against Domestic Violence. 15% of purchases at the store will be donated to the charity.

Seven Great Days

Sunday
Put a spring in your step with dance lessons. The warmer weather is almost here and it’s making you antsy. Spend the afternoon with a special someone learning to salsa or tango or see if you can (safely) pull off those impressive moves seen on TV dance shows.

Monday
March Madness is here. Give in to nostalgia and spend a night at home watching your alma mater’s b-ball team contend for the championship (or go online for highlights). Better yet, use a quiet Monday night to plan a trip to another state to watch the Final Four at month’s end.

Tuesday
Host an almost-St. Patty’s party for old friends. It is a weekday, so it’ll be an early night, but just perfect to bring together that long lost mentor, first boss or college roommate. Do it authentic at The
Republic (Farmingdale), a truly Irish-inspired pub.

Wednesday
Feeling grouchy? Spend the day with your thoughts ruminating on your youth—while away the afternoon at Heckscher Museum (Huntington) reflecting on the photography in their latest exhibit, Coming of Age in America: The Photography of Joseph Szabo.

Thursday
It’s time to claim a beer tasting. Craft beer has emerged as the new black (and tan) for Long Island “restopub” culture. Imbibe the artisanal beverages crafted by small local brewers. Beer pairs well with conversation (but not driving) and dinner, like at Willy Parkers (Williston Park).

Friday
This may be your last chance to capture a short weekend on the powder until next year. Call out sick and get a leg up on heading to the slopes at any of the Northeast’s mountains. Go for broke and cross the border into Canada for still-favorable conditions.

Saturday
It’s still chilly enough to encourage weekend indoor hibernation. Use the time to finally brush up on that foreign language you were almost fluent in once upon a time in college. Get up to speed for international travel by hiring a tutor, buying Rosetta Stone software or signing up for classes.