Bethpage to Celebrate America's 250th Anniversary with Community Parade on July 3

Patriotic celebration to feature nearly 1,000 participants, Apollo Lunar Module replica, military vehicles, live entertainment, and family activities

The Bethpage community will come together on Friday, July 3, to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States with a patriotic parade and day-long festivities honoring the nation's history, veterans, and community spirit.

Co-hosted by the Bethpage Fire District and the Bethpage Chamber of Commerce, the Bethpage Parade will step off at 9 a.m. from Cherry Avenue and Stewart Avenue in front of Bethpage High School before proceeding along Broadway to BK Sweeney's. Organizers expect nearly 1,000 participants, including veterans' organizations, scouts, marching bands, civic groups, local officials, and community organizations.

Among this year's highlights will be a life-size replica of the Apollo Lunar Module that landed on the moon, military vehicles from the Museum of American Armor, and a post-parade street fair featuring live music, military displays, and family-friendly activities.

Longtime Bethpage resident Lenard "Lenny" Mulqueen will serve as Grand Marshal. A Bethpage High School graduate, veteran, craftsman, and president of the Central Park Historical Society, Mulqueen has spent decades preserving the community's history and sharing it with future generations.

Bethpage Union Free School District Superintendent David Schneider will serve as Master of Ceremonies. Throughout the school year, Bethpage students have learned about America's 250th anniversary and will participate in the celebration wearing commemorative event shirts.

The event also supports several charitable causes. Proceeds from fundraising raffles will benefit Saint Martin of Tours Food Bank and Long Island Cares, while helping fund local veterans banner and American flag programs throughout Bethpage.

The celebration is made possible through the generous support of local sponsors, including Embassy Diner, Northrop Grumman, Bethpage Kiwanis, Steel Equities, Bethpage Fire Company 4, Zorn's Poultry Farms, Hartigan House, and Advanced Auto New York.

The parade will be held rain or shine, except in the event of severe weather.