Traditional Fireworks Extravaganza, July 1st
Patriotic Drone Show with West Point Band, July 9th
All across our great nation this weekend, Americans will be out celebrating the 250th
anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. As usual, our nation’s capital city
will lead the way with a tremendous fireworks display over the National Mall in D.C., but the true
spirit of the American Revolution is perhaps best experienced in local communities like
Clarkstown. When we look back at how our nation was built, we see a series of localized
events and actors that came together to create something they only could have achieved by
working together. The American Revolution began in small farmhouses and taverns, with
ordinary people uniting to stand up for what they believed was right. During the war, small towns
played roles equally as important as larger cities. Outside Boston, there was Lexington and
Concord. In the outskirts of Philadelphia, there was Valley Forge. And in the shadow of New
York City, there was West Point. Small towns were instrumental in building our nation and it’s
only fitting that they play a similarly important role in celebrating our historic 250th anniversary
milestone.
Clarkstown will proudly host two amazing events in honor of America 250 with a blend of
tradition and technology. Honoring a tradition that goes all the way back to the first anniversary
of our nation outside the Pennsylvania State House in 1777, the Town will host its annual
fireworks extravaganza. Taking place on Wednesday, July 1st, this yearly celebration is always
one of the best attended events in town, with thousands of residents gathering to picnic and
enjoy a show. This year’s concert will feature the “Ladies of the ‘80s” band, followed by one of
the region's biggest fireworks shows.
While most of our residents still strongly favor the celebratory sights and sounds of traditional
fireworks, the Town does recognize that these displays do not appeal to everyone. In a nod to
technology and inclusion, the Town is extremely proud to announce it will hold the area’s first
ever patriotic drone show on Thursday, July 9th. Drone shows offer individuals with sensory
sensitivities the opportunity to witness a visual spectacle without the jarring noises created by
fireworks, providing a more inclusive community celebration. It’s also a less stressful experience
for many pets and wildlife. Featuring 400 synchronized drones equipped with LED lights, this
stunning aerial light display will create images and animations celebrating our nation’s history –
from American flags and soaring eagles to stars, historical symbols, and tributes to our armed
forces. The show will light up the skies above Clarkstown with a performance unlike anything
our community has seen before.
The addition of the West Point Band at the drone show makes the evening even more special.
Located just a short distance from Clarkstown, West Point itself played an incredibly critical role
in the American Revolution. Early in the war, General George Washington recognized that
control of the Hudson River was essential to the survival of the Continental Army and the
success of the American cause. West Point’s commanding position high above a sharp bend in
the Hudson made it one of the most strategically important military sites in the colonies.
American forces fortified West Point with artillery batteries, redoubts, and a massive iron chain
was stretched across the Hudson River designed to prevent British warships from advancing
north. Historians often credit the fortress at West Point with helping secure control of the
Hudson and protecting vital supply routes between New England and the rest of the colonies.
Washington himself called West Point “the most important post in America.”
West Point also became forever linked to one of the Revolution’s most famous moments —
Benedict Arnold’s attempted betrayal of the fort to the British in 1780. The plot was uncovered
before it could succeed, preserving a strategic stronghold that many believed was essential to
ultimate American victory.
Today, the United States Military Academy at West Point continues its remarkable legacy of
service by educating and developing leaders for the Army and the nation. Having the West Point
Band perform as part of Clarkstown’s America 250 celebration is truly a great honor.
Clarkstown has always been a community that values patriotism, volunteerism, and civic pride.
From our veterans organizations and first responders to the countless residents who dedicate
their time to improving our neighborhoods, the spirit of service remains strong here.
I hope you’ll join me for these unforgettable evenings celebrating our nation with community,
music, technology, fireworks, and patriotism. Here’s to 250 years of American liberty, and to
many more centuries to come.
