The Grove Hotel is the perfect home base as you set out to explore everything our island paradise has to offer. The cultural laboratory that is Fire Island has a rich art and theater history that continues to thrive. Get outside to enjoy biking, swimming, surfing, playing beach volleyball, kayaking or reconnect with nature by slowing it down and taking in the natural wonders.
Fire Island Invasion is an annual July 4th recreation and celebration of the very first Invasion that took place in the summer of 1976. Drag queens gather at the Ice Palace at the Grove Hotel and retrace the journey from Cherry Grove to The Pines via packed ferry. A harbor packed with admirers await the show of extravagant floats, live performances, and plenty of opportunities for dancing, socializing, and celebrating.
LezVolley is an annual LGBTQ+ beach volleyball tournament held in Cherry Grove. The event draws teams from across the country and is a celebration of athleticism, community, and inclusivity. The tournament is a highlight of the summer season in Cherry Grove, and is well-attended by locals and visitors alike. In addition to the volleyball games, LezVolley also features food, drinks, music, and other festivities, and is a lively and festive event that brings people together in a welcoming and accepting atmosphere. LezVolley is an important event for the LGBTQ+ community, and continues to be a destination for people seeking fun, friendship, and acceptance.
The Cherry Grove Community House and Theater played a pivotal role in the evolution of Cherry Grove as America’s First Gay and Lesbian Town. The theater addition was completed in 1948 and continues it’s community service dedicated to the preservation of the arts in Cherry Grove.
The Sunken Forest is an ecologically important maritime forest located on the barrier island of Fire Island. This forest is referred to as “sunken” due to its location below sea level, which provides a rare and protected habitat for various species of plants and animals. It is a popular destination for hiking and birdwatching, and is also an important research site for studying the effects of sea-level rise on coastal ecosystems.
The Pines Party is an annual all weekend celebration of music, dance, and community, and attracts thousands of visitors from across the country. The event features world-renowned DJs, live performances, and spectacular light shows, and is one of the largest and most well-known gay parties in the world.
The Fire Island National Seashore boasts a series of beautiful beaches that are renowned for their natural beauty and pristine conditions. These beaches offer visitors a chance to relax, swim, surf, and sunbathe in a protected and unspoiled coastal environment. The Fire Island National Seashore also provides opportunities for beachcombing, fishing, and wildlife observation, and is an important habitat for various species of birds, marine mammals, and other wildlife.
