Get Out: Your Local Guide to the Weekend, July 1-3

We’ve found some great ways to celebrate this long Fourth of July weekend. There's pony rides, games, music, fireworks, an American Idol and plenty of patriotism.

And it's all happening near you.

RED, WHITE AND BLUES
What: Memphis Blues and Arts Festival
Where: Long Beach Public Library
When:  Friday, July 1 and Saturday July 2, see below for performance schedule.
Why Go: This festival celebrates the Blues movement, the music and the art that contributes to this classic genre.
Cost: Free

Schedule

Friday, July 1 from 7-8 p.m. is The Breakaway Duo: Lou Carollo and Howie Haber; 8-9 p.m. is Toby Walker.

Saturday, July 2 from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. is Ms. Valerie June; 8:30 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. is the Alexis P. Suter Band.

PICNIC AND PONY RIDES

What: Family Day at Belmont
Where: Belmont Park, 2150 Hempstead Turpike in Elmont
When: Sunday, July 3, 12-4 p.m.
Why Go: This family festival is held in Belmont’s backyard and picnic area. Get a unique look at the park and enjoy pony rides, games, face painting and a petting zoo.
Age: All
Cost: Free

FAIR PLAY

What: Lynbrook’s Summer Fun Fair
Where: Astoria Federal Bank parking lot, 360 Merrick Road in Lynbrook
When: Sunday July 3, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Why Go: This annual event features arts and crafts, gifts, food, games and more.
Age: All
Cost: Free

ROCKIN' TRIBUTE

What: Celebrate America Show
Where: Eisenhower Park, Hempstead Turnpike and Merrick Avenue in East Meadow
When: Saturday, July 2 at 6 p.m.
Why Go: Fireworks show and a performance by the Bon Jovi Tribute Band, “Slippery When Wet”
Age: All
Cost: Free, but you must have a ticket. Available at TD Bank branches.

CELEBRATE AMERICA WITH IDOL

What: Stars and Stripes Festival
Where: 1 Main St, East Rockaway
When: Saturday, July 2 noon–11 p.m.
Why Go: Come to the Main Street Waterfront in East Rockaway to enjoy a patriotic Independence Day celebration. There will be food, live music and a DJ, dancers, games, rides, prizes, a reptile show, face painting, a magic show, balloon creations, and many other fun activities. At 9 p.m., you can see a spectacular fireworks show. Also performing will be Season 10 American Idol contestant Robbie Rosen.

ST. CATHERINE'S CARNIVAL

What: Feast at St. Catherine of Sienna
Where: 33 New Hyde Park Rd. in Franklin Square
When: Friday July 1, 6-11 p.m.; Saturday July 2, 5-11 p.m.; Sunday July 3, 3-9 p.m..
Why Go: A summer tradition! Enjoy live music, games, rides and great food!
Age: All
Cost: Free admission