Events

Flag Day 2026: America Celebrates 249 Years of the Stars and Stripes June 14

Published

4 weeks ago

June 14, 2026

Americans across the country will celebrate Flag Day on June 14, honoring the adoption of the Stars and Stripes as the official flag of the United States.

Flag Day commemorates June 14, 1777, when the Second Continental Congress approved a resolution establishing an official flag for the newly formed nation. The resolution stated that the flag would feature thirteen alternating red and white stripes and thirteen white stars on a blue field representing a new constellation.

This year marks the 249th anniversary of the American flag, making one of the nation’s most recognizable symbols nearly two and a half centuries old.

Although Flag Day is not a federal holiday, communities nationwide mark the occasion with ceremonies, patriotic displays, parades, and educational programs recognizing the history and significance of the American flag.

The observance gained national attention in the late 19th century through the efforts of teachers, veterans, and civic organizations who advocated for a day dedicated to the flag. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation officially establishing June 14 as Flag Day. Congress later designated the date as National Flag Day in 1949.

The American flag has served as a symbol of freedom, unity, and resilience throughout the nation’s history. From military service members and first responders to schools and civic institutions, the flag remains a powerful representation of the values and ideals of the United States.

While the flag itself is 249 years old, the current 50-star version of the Stars and Stripes is 66 years old. It became the official flag of the United States on July 4, 1960, following Hawaii’s admission as the nation’s 50th state. The 50-star flag is also the longest-serving version in American history, having remained unchanged for more than six decades.

Many Americans choose to display the flag outside their homes and businesses on Flag Day. The U.S. Flag Code encourages citizens to treat the flag with respect and outlines guidelines for its proper display and care.

As the Stars and Stripes fly across cities, towns, and neighborhoods on June 14, Flag Day serves as a reminder of the nation’s history, the sacrifices made by generations of Americans, and the enduring symbol that continues to unite the nation.

Events

Sleepy Hollow Mermaid Festival Returns July 18 with Parade, Live Music and Family Fun

Published

3 days ago

July 8, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

The Sleepy Hollow Mermaid Festival returns to Kingsland Point Park on Saturday, July 18, bringing an afternoon of whimsical entertainment, live performances, local vendors, and family-friendly activities along the Hudson River.

The festival runs from 1 to 5 p.m. at Kingsland Point Park, 299 Palmer Ave., Sleepy Hollow, and features a Mermaid Parade, art activities, a Mermaid Costume Contest, live music, marketplace vendors, and a variety of food trucks.

Visitors traveling from Rockland County can turn the event into a day trip by taking the Haverstraw-Ossining Ferry across the Hudson River and connecting with Metro-North’s Hudson Line to Philipse Manor Station. The station is just a short walk from the festival grounds.

Admission is $10 for adults, free for children under 10, or $35 for a family four-pack. In the event of rain, the festival will be held on Sunday, July 19.

The Sleepy Hollow Mermaid Festival celebrates the Hudson River’s maritime heritage while offering a unique summer experience filled with creativity, costumes, music, and waterfront fun for all ages.

Events

Traffic Advisory: Road Closures for Stony Point America 250 Carnival July 8–11

Published

3 days ago

July 8, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

Motorists traveling through Stony Point should expect evening road closures and traffic delays as the town celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary with the Stony Point America 250 Carnival at Patriot Hills.

Beginning Wednesday, July 8, through Saturday, July 11, Patriot Hills Drive will be closed daily from approximately 5 to 10 p.m. to accommodate carnival activities.

Drivers traveling to Camp Venture, Patriot Hills Golf Club, Patriot Lounge, or Veterans Memorial Park should follow the posted detour via Willow Grove Road, Knapp Road, Fernald Road, and Patriot Hills Drive.

Free public parking will be available at the Stony Point Justice Court, Kirkbride Hall, and the former RHO Building parking area, which can be accessed by following the detour to Clubhouse Lane.

Police officers, Fire Police, Auxiliary members, and event staff will be on site directing traffic throughout the event. Visitors are encouraged to allow extra travel time and follow all posted detours and traffic instructions.

The Stony Point America 250 Carnival runs July 8 through July 11, from 6 to 10 p.m. each evening at Patriot Hills, featuring rides, games, food, and family-friendly entertainment as part of the community’s celebration of America’s upcoming 250th anniversary.