Fire Island Frolics: Discount Shopping and Yet More Drag Queens

Michael K. Lavers READ TIME: 9 MIN.

Started writing by the pool at the Grove Hotel in Cherry Grove at 1:38 p.m. on Sunday, June 19.

This weekend's ambitious agenda included deeply discounted shopping in Fire Island Pines and purchasing the perfect third-hand Invasion frock at the Ice Palace in the Grove, attending Miracle House's annual Pines fundraiser and Women's Pride in the Pines at Sip n' Twirl, Porsche's 10th anniversary show at the Ice Palace and watching a spectacular sunset from the Grove's dock. Summer has certainly arrived in all its splendid glory!

The last two days have also once again reminded me there are some truly incredible and amazing people who live, work and certainly play on Fire Island. I remain honored to have the opportunity to share their stories.

Here are three votes and observations from the previous weekend.
1) Grove definitely has a unique way of dealing with idiots and those who become idiots while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.
2) Avi�n may love it hard, but aerial advertisements above the beach certainly do not arouse those who loathe them.
3) The Grove is arguably the only place on earth where one can buy a dress for $10. Accessories and even shoes are sometimes included!

It’s Summer!

The fact that the Fire Island Ferries' parking lot in Bay Shore was full by 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 18, is a sure sign that summer has officially arrived.

Shopping on Saturdays

Deep discounts were de rigeur at Shopping on Saturdays in the Pines on Saturday, June 18.

End of the Road

At the literal end of the road in the Grove.

All the News that’s Fit to Pin

A bulletin board along Bay View Walk in the Grove.

From the Roof

A rooftop vista from 548 Beachcomber Walk in the Pines on Saturday, June 18.

Another Stunning Sunset

The setting sun provided a stunning spectacle for those on the Grove dock who watched it on Saturday, June 18.

Get Your Drag!

This eager shopper peruses the racks at the annual Drag Tag Sale at the Ice Palace in the Grove on Sunday, June 19.

Dress in a Bag

This reporter walked away from the Drag Tag Sale with the perfect Invasion ensemble.


by Michael K. Lavers , National News Editor

Based in Washington, D.C., Michael K. Lavers has appeared in the New York Times, BBC, WNYC, Huffington Post, Village Voice, Advocate and other mainstream and LGBT media outlets. He is an unapologetic political junkie who thoroughly enjoys living inside the Beltway.

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