20 Things to Do in the Hamptons Before Memorial Day: Get Ready to Grill

Memorial Day (Monday, May 30) and the official start of the East End’s busy summer season is literally days away, so now’s the time to take advantage of all the special things that will be nonexistent or difficult to enjoy in the Hamptons once the crowds arrive from points west.

We continue our countdown of 20 things to do before Memorial Day in the Hamptons with:

#3: Get Ready to Grill!

Memorial Day is a day of remembrance, but it’s also a day to spend time with family and friends as the summer begins—and chances are, you’re going to a barbecue or hosting one. It’s a lot of fun to be the “grillmaster” for the day, but it can be a little stressful to get everything ready for the party. Don’t wait! Get everything you need early, make sure your grill is in tip-top shape and plan the menu ahead of time.

Unless you’re a vegetarian (which is fine!), you’ll want good meat. We suggest heading to Cromer’s Market (3500 Noyack Road, Sag Harbor). Their famous butcher shop has a wide array of meats, from steak to sausage. For nice, fresh veggies, head to some farmers markets, including Hampton Bays (165 Ponquogue Avenue, Saturdays from 9 a.m.–1 p.m.), Sag Harbor (Bay and Burke Streets, Saturdays from 9 a.m.–1 p.m.), Southampton (25 Jobs Lane, Sundays from 9 a.m.–2 p.m.) and Westhampton Beach (85 Mill Road, Saturdays from 9 a.m.–1 p.m.).

Make sure your grill is ready—no rusty propane tanks, please! If by chance you don’t have a grill, and want to make a last-minute purchase, head to P.C. Richard & Son (320 Southampton Bypass, Southampton).

Oh, and don’t let go of that spatula—all you need is crazy cousin Ed ruining your hard work because he thought he’d “help.” Thanks but no thanks! Maybe he’d like to go chop onions instead?

MORE 20 THINGS TO DO BEFORE MEMORIAL DAY IN THE HAMPTONS