Herald Neighbors

Stars & Stripes festival a huge hit in East Rockaway

Posted

Fireworks filled the night sky on Sept. 16 as the 2017 Stars & Stripes festival closed out with a literal bang. Hundreds of residents came out to the waterfront in East Rockaway to enjoy the three days of festivities that began on Sept. 14.

"The Village of East Rockaway and the Village Foundation saw increased attendance at our Stars & Stripes Festival due to the growing popularity of our revitalized waterfront area and growing Main Street,” said Mayor Bruno Romano. “ … Most importantly, this year's festival honored veterans from our hometown for their service and sacrifice in and out of our nation's uniform.”

The event included food trucks, merchant vendors, rides, games and the expansive closing fireworks display. Barrier Brewery Company of Oceanside was one of many local businesses to take part in the festival. Local bands also got involved. On Saturday, the School of Rock and White Wedding, a 1980s tribute band, hit the stage to rock the audience.

Saturday’s festivities began with Romano leading a salute to the flag to honor all of the veterans in the community. With each year, the festival continues to grow, and Romano said he expects the same for 2018. “The village looks forward to an even more successful Stars & Stripes next year,” he said.