For the second year in a row, Fort Totten in Bayside will welcome thousands of people to an Independence Day Celebration with fireworks and live music ahead of the holiday.
The event, set to take place on Wednesday, June 26, will be hosted by local Councilwoman Vickie Paladino, the Queens Chamber of Commerce and the Bayside Historical Society. This year marks the seventh annual celebration, accounting for a four-year pause during the pandemic.
“Last year was such a success and really boosted the morale of the community,” said Councilwoman Paladino. “We are so happy to bring such a beloved event back to the community. We hope to see all of you out there!”
The fireworks will be put on by Fireworks by Grucci, a family-owned and operated company that has set several Guinness World Records, including for the “Largest Fireworks Display” ever recorded.
Organizers are encouraging people to bring blankets, lawn chairs and picnics to enjoy the event comfortably. Vendor trucks will also be on site, offering a range of food and beverages, such as roasted corn, fresh lemonade and funnel cakes.
Alcohol is not permitted at the family-friendly event. All bags and coolers will be inspected by the NYPD at the park’s entrance.
Musical performances by Chicken Head Rocks and Phil Costa and The Something Special Band will kick off the event at 6 p.m. and last until 9 p.m. The fireworks display is scheduled to begin at 9:15 p.m.
Visitors are encouraged to walk or take advantage of the shuttle to transport them to and from offsite parking, as it will be limited to handicapped attendees at Little Bay Park. Citibus will offer shuttles from Clearview Golf Course and Bay Terrace Shopping Center, where parking will be available.
The councilwoman thanked the co-hosts along with a slew of city agencies who came together to organize the event, including NYC Parks, the Department of Sanitation, the FDNY and the Office of Emergency Management.
On Wednesday, gates to the park will open at 5 p.m. and guests must enter by 8:30 p.m. to enjoy the fireworks. After that, the NYPD will not allow people into the park.
