Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Mar. 12 that a series of major events will be held at Jones Beach State Park to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. The celebrations are scheduled for Memorial Day and July Fourth weekends, with additional themed programs planned throughout the year at State Parks across Long Island.
The initiative aims to highlight New York’s significant role in the American Revolution and provide educational opportunities for residents and visitors. Events will include historic reenactments, a drone show, performances by military jet teams, and family activities designed to bring history to life.
Hochul said, “The founding of America250 years ago cannot be told without including New York’s pivotal role in the American Revolution. That history can be found across our state, from Long Island all the way to Niagara and the Great Lakes, the Hudson and Mohawk valleys, the Capital Region and the North Country. We’re looking forward to an incredible range of programs at State Parks on Long Island throughout the year. And our I LOVE NY website makes it easy to find these as well as many other sites and programs, and learn more about both the familiar and unknown people who helped shape our democracy.”
Memorial Day weekend events will feature a first-ever patriotic drone show over Jones Beach, reenactors portraying New York signers of the Declaration of Independence, Revolutionary War encampments including those representing Black regiments, period music, colonial cooking demonstrations, family games, and children’s play areas. On July Fourth weekend, highlights include fireworks on July 4 at 9:30 p.m., followed by an air show featuring headliners such as the United States Navy Blue Angels and international teams like Canada’s Snowbirds.
New York State Office of Parks Acting Commissioner Kathy Moser said, “These events on Long Island are an exciting part of what is happening across New York State as we share the compelling stories of the people who shaped the American Revolution with our Revisit the Revolution initiative. Wherever you live, you will find events near you that will bring this history to life this year.” Empire State Development President Hope Knight added that these commemorations offer unique opportunities for exploration during getaways or vacations.
Additional monthly programs related to Revolutionary history are scheduled through November at various Long Island parks. The initiatives are supported in part by a $125,000 grant from the State 250th Commemoration Commission. More information about ongoing exhibitions and resources can be found through state park channels.