A trip around the world won't require a passport to close out the summer — just a visit to Eisenhower Park. Music, dance, food and traditions from across the globe will take center stage as the park welcomes a trio of cultural celebrations highlighting Long Island's Chinese and Latino communities. Chinese American Night, the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival and Latino American Night will each offer their own mix of performances and traditions while giving Nassau County residents an opportunity to experience the cultures of their neighbors.
Lion and dragon dancers will help bring Chinese culture to life during Chinese American Night at Eisenhower Park's Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre.
The annual free celebration on Aug. 30, presented as part of Nassau County's International Nights series, showcases Chinese and Chinese American culture through an evening of traditional and contemporary entertainment. Visitors can expect performances including folk dancing, martial arts demonstrations and traditional music, along with the colorful lion and dragon dances that have become highlights of the event.
The celebration is organized in partnership with the Chinese Center on Long Island, which has worked for decades to promote Chinese culture and strengthen connections among Chinese Americans and the wider Long Island community.
Families can also take part in activities designed to introduce younger visitors to Chinese traditions and culture.
One of the most important traditional celebrations in Chinese culture will also have its moment at Eisenhower Park with a celebration of the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival on Sept. 20.
Observed across China and other parts of Asia, the centuries-old festival traditionally brings families and communities together to celebrate the harvest and admire the full moon. The occasion is closely associated with themes of family, togetherness and gratitude, as well as one of its best-known treats: mooncakes.
At Eisenhower Park, the celebration offers Long Islanders an opportunity to experience those traditions closer to home through cultural performances, music and other festivities.
The event also provides a chance for visitors unfamiliar with the holiday to learn about the customs and symbolism surrounding the Mid-Autumn Festival while joining their neighbors in celebrating one of Asia's most enduring cultural traditions.
Eisenhower Park will close out September with plenty of music and movement when Nassau County's Latino American Night — Noche Latina — takes over the park on Sunday, Sept. 27, beginning at 4 p.m.
The celebration is designed to showcase the richness and diversity of Latino culture through live entertainment, dance and cultural performances representing the many communities that make up Nassau County.
County officials have been seeking Latino performers for the 2026 celebration, including bands, Latin dance teams and other cultural performers, promising an afternoon filled with a variety of sounds and traditions.
The event is part celebration and part showcase, giving local performers an opportunity to take the stage while bringing residents together to experience the music, dance and cultural traditions found throughout the Latino community.
