The Bronx was the first in the nation to wish America a happy 241st birthday with its annual New York Salutes America Boardwalk Festival and Fireworks Extravaganza on Thursday, June 29 at Orchard Beach.
Co-hosted by Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. and Senator Jeff Klein, the Bronx’s official launch to the year’s Independence Day celebrations featured the third annual ‘Bronx Empanada Eating Contest,’ live music performances and a spectacular professional fireworks display at the Bronx Riviera.
Assemblyman Marcos Crespo (back, c) and his family were excited to watch the fireworks!
Photo by Laura Stone
(l-r) Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr.; Aleksander Nilaj, Albanian American Open Hands Association Inc. president and Senator Jeff Klein celebrated together.
Photo by Laura Stone
Bronxites of all ages enjoyed some wholesome fun in the sun at the Bronx Riviera.
Photo by Laura Stone
This year’s sponsors included Assemblyman Michael Benedetto, Altice, Anheuser Busch, Bronx Tax Man, Con Edison, Empire City Casino, G.A.L. Manufacturing Corp, Manhattan Beer Distributors, Mercy College, Pascap, Schuyler Funeral Home, Havana Cafe, Domino’s, Sabrett, PepsiCo, Radio 103.9, Snapple and Healthfirst.
Photo by Laura Stone
The Carl Brown Band gave an energetic concert performance.
Photo by Laura Stone
The skies over Orchard Beach lit up in a kaleidoscopic display.
Photo by Laura Stone
