The final Live After Five of the 2025 season in Merrick went on as scheduled Sept. 25, despite morning and afternoon rainfall and the threat of more inclement weather in the evening.
Torrential rain forced the cancellation of the July 31 event, and the Merrick Community Civic Association organizers were hoping that two of the five dates would not be washed out. Despite the sun making a brief appearance during the evening window, the unsettled forecast prompted the cancellation of live musical performances at the Merrick Avenue gazebo.
Even without the outdoor entertainment, the event drew patrons downtown from the Long Island Rail Road station to Loines Avenue. Visitors took advantage of discounts offered by restaurants, clothing stores and boutiques along Merrick Avenue. For many businesses, the event still provided a late-season boost in foot traffic.
After the event’s debut last year received strong reviews, the civic association emphasized that Live After Five is about more than entertainment. It serves as a showcase for Merrick’s small businesses and a way to strengthen community ties. Even with limited programming, the season’s final installment still gave residents the chance to stroll downtown, dine locally and support neighborhood merchants.
With this year’s series now complete, the association will begin preparing dates for the return of Live After Five in 2026, with hopes for clearer skies and the full lineup of music and activities that has defined the event since its creation.
