Drive-In Fireworks Events Scheduled In Dutchess County

POUGHKEEPSIE, NY — Are you lamenting the fact that the new coronavirus has forced the cancellation of fireworks displays and festivals so popular this time of year? Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro announced Friday that the county, in partnership with the Hudson Valley Renegades, Silo Ridge Field Club, the Dutchess County Fairgrounds and iHeartMedia of the Hudson Valley, will host “Dutchess County Goes Renegade,” three free, socially distant fireworks displays in Dutchess.

The events are open to all residents on Saturday, July 4.

Molinaro said the COVID-19 pandemic has robbed us of a lot, but nothing will stop Dutchess County from honoring the birth of our nation.

"Our residents deserve the chance to celebrate this most American of holidays — even as we remain safely and socially distant — and our county is proud to collaborate with our community partners to present a patriotic observance worthy of our country, as we strive every day to fulfill the radical undeniable truth, that all are created equal endowed with certain unalienable rights: life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness," he said.

"I urge residents to join Dutchess County and honor those first renegades who battled tyranny and founded our beloved United States, all while we savor a nighttime spectacle that will light up the sky,” Molinaro said.

There will be three drive-in displays, each beginning promptly at 9:30 p.m., at the following venues:

• Dutchess Stadium, 1500 Route 9D, Wappinger
• Dutchess County Fairgrounds, 6636 Route 9, Rhinebeck
• Silo Ridge Field Club Equestrian Center (Keane Stud), 217 Depot Hill Road, Amenia

Live remotes will be hosted by iHeartMedia of the Hudson Valley from each of the sites, broadcasting on several of its stations, and will synchronize patriotic music to the fireworks.

Gates will open to vehicles at each location at 7:30 p.m. Parking is limited at Keane Stud (300 vehicles), Dutchess Stadium (500) and the Dutchess County Fairgrounds (3,000). Vehicles will be properly spaced to conform to social distancing. Residents are encouraged to arrive early at the venue of their choice to ensure a spot.

“Dutchess County Goes Renegade” is a carry-in/carry-out event, and residents are encouraged to bring their own snacks, but alcohol will not be permitted at any of the venues. Restroom facilities will not be available at the sites.

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