On Thursday, June 30, 2016, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. and State Senator Jeff Klein will host the borough’s official kickoff to the Independence Day Celebrations, the annual “New York Salutes America” boardwalk festival and fireworks extravaganza at Orchard Beach located in The Bronx. Over 10,000 people are expected to be in attendance.
“This is a great fun-filled evening one can spend with their friends and family,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. “This is one of our jewel events; which this year includes the addition of our second annual eating contest, where people from across the city can experience the best that The Bronx has to offer. I urge everyone to join myself, State Senator Klein and thousands of your neighbors as we kick-off our city’s Independence Day celebrations and salute America together.”
"The Fourth of July is a celebratory time for all Americans. Every year I look forward to our fireworks extravaganza, which has become a cherished tradition for our Bronx families. As we reflect upon the extraordinary history of our nation, we must remember the sacrifices of our brave U.S. servicemen and women, whose courageous acts contributed to our nation’s freedom," said State Senator Jeff Klein.
The event is free; open to the public and includes fun activities for the kids, such as magicians, balloon artists, music performances and much more. The event will begin at 6 p.m., with the eating contest starting at 7:45 p.m.and the fireworks show beginning at 9:20 p.m.
This year, the fireworks music score will feature an eclectic mix of music all performed by Bronx natives, many of whom are Bronx Walk of Fame inductees. From Doo Wop to Hip Hop, Classic Rock, Swing, Funk, Soul, Pop and Latin, you'll hear from such Bronxites as Dion, Steven Tyler, Bobby Darin, Nitty, The Chiffons, Anthrax, Irene Cara, Grand Master Flash, Ace Frehley, Kurtis Blow, Prince Royce and Jennifer Lopez.
In addition, the “Bronx Empanada Eating Contest” returns for the second year in a row, featuring mini-empanadas from Havana Café. Contestants will be selected at the beach prior to the contest and must be present to participate. Winners of the contest will win a Bronx Prize Package.
