Hochul Announces Memorial Day Festivities For Semiquincentennial At Jones Beach

WANTAGH, NY — With the Jones Beach Air Show pushed back to July 4 as part of the Semiquincentennial celebration, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced a replacement event that’ll light up skies on Memorial Day Weekend: A drone show, complete with an historical village, reenactors and historical exhibits.

Hochul said the drone show would be accompanied by live music, taking place Sunday night of Memorial Day Weekend. For attendees, there’s another perk that’s hard to find during the summer: Free parking at the beach.

“This exciting two-day event at Jones Beach State Park will be an incredible kick-off to the summer season on Long Island — and with free parking, we’re making it even more affordable and accessible for New York families,” Hochul said. “The 250th anniversary of the American Revolution is an unparalleled opportunity to commemorate New York’s history and promote the state as a top destination for visitors. I’m looking forward to events across the state this year to highlight our revolutionary spirit and remind the world that New Yorkers have always been at the forefront of the continuing fight for liberty and equality.”

Hochul’s office said there would be a patriotic music performance at the bandshell from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday evening, with the 20-minute light show kicking off at 9 p.m. As for what the drone show will feature, Hochul said there would be patriotic symbols and animations in honor of the United States’ 250th anniversary. For those unable to attend, there’ll also be a simulcast of the light show.

“Jones Beach State Park on Memorial Day weekend is the ideal place to welcome thousands of New Yorkers from all over to take part in the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution,” Acting Commissioner of New York State Parks Kathy Moser said. “The exciting event is an opportunity for us to reflect on our history and honor American service members while enjoying the start of the summer season.”

In addition to the drones, music and reenactors, Hochul’s office said there would be airplane flyovers and an expanded set of concession offerings on the boardwalk over Memorial Day Weekend.