Flags will proudly wave over Westchester County this 4th of July weekend as its many patriotic community events bring people together in common love and appreciation for this great nation we call home. Enjoy spectacular fireworks from the historic Playland Pier in Rye, support a local volunteer fire department with some carnival fun, or even experience traditional Sousa marches and fireworks all in one celebratory night at the Caramoor. The opportunities to represent red, white and blue in your community are endless.
Make this Independence Day the best yet, and be sure to check out these favorite Fourth of July events of Westchester County.
Go back in time this 4th of July at Playland Pier, a declared American landmark of Westchester County. Founded in 1928, the park originally included a boardwalk, ice-skating rinks, a swimming pool and two beaches, as well as amusement park rides, some of which are still in use. Today, visitors still enjoy this fully functioning park in Rye, especially on the 4th of July, where a renowned fireworks display serves as the patriotic backdrop of this historic scene.
Perhaps the most well-known Independence Day celebration takes place in the village of Mamaroneck, N.Y. with the annual Fireman’s Carnival. For 67 years, this week-long tradition overwhelms Harbor Island Park with carnival entertainment and community support for the town’s volunteer fire department. All of the proceeds go to the department which operates out of four stations with over 200 dedicated volunteers. Enjoy classic rides, games for all ages and of course, tons of food and drink American-style. And what better way to celebrate the country than to support the men and women who protect us every day?
For all history buffs, Katonah’s John Jay Homestead Independence Day Fair is the place to be. Nearly all day long you can honor this nation’s rich past by enjoying a reading of the Declaration, hayrides, live music, colonial games, crafts and more, all while surrounded by this historic site. John Jay, the original owner of the home and farm, was one of America’s principal Founding Fathers, co-authoring the Treaty of Paris and the Federalist Papers which supported ratification of our Constitution. He even served as President of the Second Continental Congress, U.S. Secretary for Foreign Affairs, first Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court and the second governor of New York State. Clearly, John Jay cared about his country and the community of Westchester County. Honor his impact on America by attending this patriotic fair that would most definitely make him proud.
The Caramoor offers the perfect event for a relaxing evening of patriotic activities. Bring a picnic and the family to enjoy musical performances by the Westchester Symphonic Winds and Broadway’s Ryan Silverman. Sousa marches and popular American favorites are ideal for gathering the nation’s spirit in the local community and a great way to prepare for a spectacular fireworks show to close the night.
Don’t miss out on your chance to see fireworks near you this Independence Day. Here is a complete Westchester County list of fireworks displays.