Stepping Out

Saluting the Fourth of July

Fireworks and fun set the tone for a grande Independence Day Bash

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Independence Day festivities — highlighted by many sparkling displays of fireworks — have arrived throughout the area.
It’s time for another round of festivities to mark our nation’s birthday. The pyrotechnics are ready to dazzle beginning this weekend, through July Fourth next Saturday, and continuing through the following weekend.

Fireworks At Jones Beach
For many, July Fourth celebrating just hasn’t been the same without braving the crowds to find a spot at Jones Beach for what used to be an annual fireworks extravaganza. Well, this patriotic tradition, last seen there in 2009, returns on July 4, beginning at 9:30 p.m.
The colorful display, once again produced by Garden State Fireworks, is a spectacular half-hour show using the latest pyrotechnics. The company uses sophisticated computer-controlled technology to entertain spectators with vibrant colors and state-of-the-art sounds simulcast to a rousing musical array of patriotic songs by WALK 97.5 FM and WHLI AM.
Of course expect crowds. Many thousands of hardy souls recall braving the jam-packed thoroughfares leading to the park for the impressive light show. Over 250,000 people are expected to attend, so spectators are advised to arrive early on Saturday. “Center stage” is Field 4; but you’ll be able to gaze at the fireworks throughout the length of the beach.

Celebrate America at Eisenhower Park
Eisenhower Park has become a popular focal point to kick off some holiday celebrating. Thousands are expected to fill the park once again on Saturday, June 27, to watch as the skies light up with those spectacular fireworks at the county’s annual July Fourth extravaganza.
TD Bank continues as the sponsor of “Celebrate America,” the glittery spectacle at the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, which begins at dusk. Batman’s Third Rail Band gets things going with a lively performance, followed by Killer Joe and the Lido Soul Revue. Described as “the hardest playing band in New York,” they’ll have everyone grooving to the best of Motown, R&B, old time rock ’n roll, blues and soul. Killer Joe and his band bring this music into the modern day with a show that serves as a testament to the timelessness of these early rock classics, playing with the same charged spirit and energy as found in the original recordings of the songs on their set list.
The musical prelude sets the stage for the festive fireworks, presented by the world-famous Grucci family, that follow.
Theater area gates will open at 5:30 p.m., with the fireworks beginning at nightfall, around 9:30 p.m. Tickets are required for admission to the theater area; the free tickets are available at any TD Bank on Long Island, while supplies last. And, of course, there is no formal seating, so visitors should bring blankets or chairs.
Space is limited and overflow will be directed to other viewing and parking areas. For further information, contact 572-0200 or the concertline, 572-0223.

A spirited Independence Day tribute at Point Lookout
The joint will be jumpin’ when Los Lobos brings their dynamic Tex-Mex influenced rock to the beach at Point Lookout for the Town of Hempstead’s annual Salute to Veterans Independence Day festivities, also on Saturday, June 27, at Town Park Point Lookout.
As always, the program begins at 7:30 p.m. with a patriotic salute to several heroic war veterans, followed by the concert and concluding with a rousing fireworks show by Bay Fireworks, at approximately 9:30 p.m.
Los Lobos has been making rock n’ roll music with depth that transcends genres for over 40 years. Their powerhouse mix of rock, Tex-Mex, country, folk, R&B, blues and traditional Spanish and Mexican music, which the band calls “the soundtrack of the barrio,” continues to draw an enthusiastic response from audiences.
Besides seating and blankets, everyone is encouraged to bring a picnic dinner and settle in for an enjoyable celebration of the nation’s 239th birthday. Food will also be available for purchase.
For information, contact 292-9000 ext. 7382 or www.toh.li.

Fireworks at Valley Stream’s Fireman’s Field
Watching the fireworks display at Fireman’s Field in Valley Stream continues to be a summer ritual for many South Shore residents. The holiday fun continues next Saturday, July 4, when the Valley Stream Chamber of Commerce and the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream hosts their annual Fireworks Show. The rain date is July 5.
This event remains one of the largest fireworks displays in the area, according to Valley Stream Chamber of Commerce officials, with over 25,000 people who attend yearly. Visitors will be treated to a glorious display of sparklers, with enterainment by DJ John Piazza before the light show, along with children’s activities.
Activities for the kids will include bounce castles, face painting and games. Food and drinks will be available for sale.
It’s a neighborhood tradition for many to watch the fireworks outside the gates of Fireman’s Field. However, village officials prefer that people actually enter the park to get the most out of the event. Tickets, which always sell out quickly, are $7 in advance and $10 at the gate. They are available at the Hendrickson Pool Facility, Village Hall, the Henry Waldinger Memorial Library and Sip This on Rockaway Avenue. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. Enter at Emerson Place or Albermarle Avenue entrances to Fireman’s Field, Valley Stream. For more information, call 825-1741.

Fireworks Extravaganza in Long Beach
The city of Long Beach honors Independence Day, Friday, July 10, with its annual beach party, highlighted by a colorful fireworks display. The festivities begin at 8 p.m., on the beach, with a concert to get the festive vibe going. Fireworks follow, at 9 p.m., from a barge off the Long Beach shoreline. Visitors can sit on the beach to watch the show, or view the lights from any point along the shore.
City officials urge everyone to arrive early and use public transportation, as parking will be limited. For further information, visit www.longbeachny.org.

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