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Happy Fourth of July: Celebrating Independence Day and America’s History

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3 months ago

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Across Rockland County and the nation, Americans are celebrating Independence Day with parades, concerts, family gatherings, and fireworks as the country marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

The Fourth of July commemorates July 4, 1776, when the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence, formally announcing the 13 colonies’ separation from Great Britain. The document laid the foundation for the United States and its enduring ideals of liberty, equality, and self-government.

This year’s celebration carries added significance as communities prepare for America’s 250th anniversary in 2026. Across the country, local governments, historical organizations, and community groups are hosting special events highlighting the nation’s Revolutionary War history and the people who helped shape its founding.

In Rockland County, that history is especially meaningful. The county played an important role during the American Revolution, with sites such as Stony Point Battlefield preserving the story of the Continental Army’s daring 1779 victory and the sacrifices made by those who fought for independence.

Independence Day also serves as an opportunity to recognize the generations of military service members who have defended the nation’s freedoms since its founding. Communities throughout Rockland County will honor veterans, active-duty military personnel, first responders, and all those who continue to serve the public.

Residents are encouraged to celebrate safely by attending local events, following fireworks safety guidelines, and spending time with family, friends, and neighbors.

As the nation looks ahead to the America250 celebration next year, this Independence Day offers a chance to reflect on the country’s history, celebrate the freedoms Americans enjoy today, and look forward to the next chapter in the nation’s story.

Happy Independence Day, and have a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July.

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Events

Rockland County Free Fall Festival Returns to West Nyack Oct. 18

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23 hours ago

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October 14, 2026

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The Historical Society of Rockland County will host its 13th Annual Fall Festival on Sunday, October 18, bringing a day of family activities, live entertainment, historic demonstrations and Revolutionary War reenactments to West Nyack.

Presented in partnership with Heritage of West Nyack and the Town of Clarkstown, the free festival will take place from noon to 4 p.m. at 131 Germonds Road, adjacent to Germonds Park.

The event will offer visitors an opportunity to experience local history, explore traditional crafts and enjoy seasonal activities for all ages.

Revolutionary War History Comes to Life

One of the festival’s featured attractions will be an encampment by Heard’s Brigade of the New Jersey Militia, offering a look at military life during the American Revolutionary War.

Visitors can explore 18th-century tents and watch demonstrations of open-fire cooking, militia drills and musket firing. Revolutionary War skirmish reenactments are scheduled for 1:15 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.

The festival will also feature tours of the historic Onderdonk-Tallman-Budke and Vanderbilt-Budke-Traphagen houses, along with a presentation by Clare Sheridan titled “Who Was Naut Kanniff? The Story of the Witch of West Nyack.”

Traditional craft demonstrations will include lacemaking by Mayra Petretti of the Metropolitan Chapter of the International Organization of Lace, Inc., as well as wool and flax spinning demonstrations by Celeste Sherry.

Family Activities and Fall Fun

Families can enjoy a variety of seasonal activities throughout the afternoon, including horse-drawn wagon rides scheduled from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

The Horses R Us 4-H Club will offer pumpkin picking, decorating and painting, while Fred DePaul will present sheep-shearing demonstrations at 12:15 p.m., 2:15 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Children can also take part in colonial-era games presented by Tom Hunt of Waterside Forge. Balloony Toony Entertainment will provide balloon animals, face painting and glitter tattoos.

Additional attractions will include free mini-golf, raffles, craft vendors and demonstrations. A pen-turning workshop hosted by the Hudson Valley Wood Turners will be available for participants ages 12 and older. Reservations are recommended, and interested participants can contact Len Stambler at Lstambler@gmail.com.

Live Music and Entertainment

Music will be part of the afternoon’s festivities, with balladeer Thaddeus MacGregor performing alongside Wee Jim the Limberjack. Additional musical entertainment will feature Scott Staton, Keith Olsen and Pat Keating.

Organizers invite residents and visitors to enjoy an afternoon celebrating Rockland County’s history, heritage and fall traditions.

Event Information

  • What: 13th Annual Fall Festival
  • When: Sunday, October 18, 2026, noon to 4 p.m.
  • Where: Historical Society of Rockland County, 131 Germonds Road, West Nyack, adjacent to Germonds Park
  • Admission: Free
  • Workshop reservations: Contact Len Stambler at Lstambler@gmail.com for the pen-turning workshop.

With Revolutionary War reenactments, historic house tours, traditional crafts, live music and family-friendly fall activities, the festival will offer visitors a chance to experience local history while celebrating the season.

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Events

Spirit of Sobro Returns October 2 for 5th Annual Celebration

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2 weeks ago

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September 30, 2026

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Celebrating its fifth year, this popular community event is getting bigger, with the festivities expanding to a second block this year.

The event will stretch from Depew to the gas station, creating additional space for vendors and entertainment. Organizers say 45 vendors are expected, along with street performers, circus sideshows, live music, a DJ, drumming and more throughout the event.

One tradition will remain in place: the Tarot salon inside Modern Druid, which will be open throughout the evening.

Organizers are encouraging the community to come out, support local vendors and performers, and help make this year’s celebration the biggest and most fun yet.

Bring your friends, spread the word and come enjoy an evening of music, entertainment, shopping and community.

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