For the second consecutive year, hundreds gathered at Fort Totten in Bayside for an Independence Day Celebration that featured live music and a highly anticipated fireworks display. Despite high hopes and meticulous planning, the event, held on Wednesday, June 26, was rained out, dampening the festivities for attendees.
The event, which marked its seventh annual celebration after a four-year pause due to the pandemic, was hosted by Councilwoman Vickie Paladino, the Queens Chamber of Commerce and the Bayside Historical Society. The fireworks display, orchestrated by Fireworks by Grucci, was the highlight of the evening. However, the weather had other plans, and the fireworks were canceled just before 9 p.m.
Despite that, attendees enjoyed the early evening at Fort Totten, with many savoring the performances by the bands and indulging in treats from the food trucks, including gyros, tacos and hotdogs.
The organizers expressed their gratitude to the staff and volunteers who helped put the event together, including the Queens Chamber of Commerce, Bayside Historical Society, Parks Department and Fireworks by Grucci.
Councilwoman Paladino shared her appreciation for the community’s support and participation despite the soggy outcome. “Thank you to everyone who came out. I hope everyone made it home safely and not too drenched from the rain,” she said.
The event saw NYPD inspecting bags and coolers at the park’s entrance to ensure safety, with alcohol prohibited to maintain a family-friendly atmosphere.
Despite the rain dampening this year’s celebration, the community’s spirit shone brightly as attendees enjoyed an Independence Day celebration sans the fireworks.
