Bayside To Celebrate Independence Day 2019 Early With Fireworks

BAYSIDE, QUEENS — July 4th is quickly approaching, which means it's time for the Fifth Annual Fort Totten Park Independence Day Celebration in Bayside.

Thousands are expected to come to Fort Totten the evening of Wednesday, June 26 for an early Independence Day celebration in Northeast Queens.

The celebration will feature fireworks by Grucci launched from a barge on Little Neck Bay and musical performances by the MM Rock Camp, Chicken Head Rocks, and Phil Costa & the Something Special Big B.

Food trucks will offer a variety of snacks and beverages.

The event is co-sponsored by City Council Member Paul A. Vallone, the Queens Chamber of Commerce and the Bayside Historical Society.

What time should I arrive?

Fort Totten's front gates open at 5 p.m. Musical performances will last from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The 15-minute fireworks show begins promptly at 9:15 p.m.

Where can I park?

Parking will be available at the Little Bay Parking Lot, the Clearview Golf Course (beginning at 5 p.m.), underneath the Throgs Neck Bridge, along Bell Boulevard west of Fort Totten, and at the Bay Terrace Shopping Center.

Shuttles will bring guests to and from the offsite parking locations beginning at 6 p.m.

What should I bring?

Guests are encouraged to bring their own blankets, lawn chairs and picnic-related items. This is a non-alcoholic event. The NYPD will search all bags, coolers and other containers.

Know of other events in the area? Post them on the Patch calendar or share details on our free Neighbor Post feature.

Planning a celebration for the Fourth? Check out epic July Fourth essentials like red, white and blue swag, patriotic games and luminous LED lights to ensure your party is the best in the USA.