The Our Times Coffeehouse was established at the Ethical Humanist Society of Long Island in March of 1990, as a venue for live folk music on Long Island. We also sought to provide an opportunity for local artists to perform in an informal community setting that facilitated socializing. For those 30 years, without fail, until Covid put a halt to our gatherings in March of 2020, we met monthly, for nine times a year for most of that time. We have been able to bring some of the country’s best folk performers to the Island, including Pat Humphreys, Tom Chapin, Christine Lavin, Mad Agnes, Greg Greenway, and Bill Staines, among many others. Bill Staines was a highly anticipated regular presence, performing each of those 30 years, invariably before large adoring crowds. On two other occasions, we filled the building with an evening of the songs of Phil Ochs, MCed by his sister Sonny Ochs, with his music performed by a remarkable selection of local artists. After a three year hiatus due to the pandemic, and following numerous requests, we are finally returning on Friday evening, May 3, 2024, with featured artist Christine Lavin returning.

It is through the efforts of our dedicated volunteer staff that we have been able to provide the many wonderful evenings of folk music. We thank each of our volunteers for their dedication and commitment to the Coffeehouse. Most importantly, we thank the members of our audiences. It is through their love of folk music and financial support that we are able to continue to operate.