Green Acres Mall marked Nassau County’s annual “516 Day” celebration with a full day of entertainment, giveaways, local business participation and community-focused activities.
The annual event, inspired by the county’s 516 area code, is designed to encourage residents to shop locally and celebrate community pride throughout the county. Guests at Green Acres were encouraged to represent their hometowns and schools by wearing school colors during the event.
This year’s celebration also coincided with Green Acres’ 70th anniversary serving the region.
Activities began in the morning with the launch of the 516 Walking Club, where participants completed 516 steps through the mall for a chance to receive promotional giveaways. Additional events throughout the day included the 516 Trivia Game Show Experience at Center Court, where visitors competed for prizes and gift cards.
The center also hosted complimentary food and beverage samples from participating retailers, including Quickway Hibachi and Smoothie Planet. Artists Mike Stanko, Darren Boerckel, Yuliya Lobach and Jim Zabatta participated in a Local Artist Showcase.
Student artwork from Valley Stream South High School was displayed at the Reflections Art Show, and local organizations and nonprofits participated in a Community Impact Hub, showing the services available to Valley Stream residents.
Entertainment throughout the day included live DJs, stilt walkers, balloon artists, face painters and photo booth activations located around the mall.
A blood drive organized by the New York Blood Center in partnership with the Valley Stream Teachers Association was also held near Macy’s Men’s during the event.
Green Acres leadership said the event reflected the shopping center’s continued focus on community engagement as redevelopment efforts continue at the property.
