Peekskill’s Fourth of July Celebration No Longer in Jeopardy

PEEKSKILL, NY — Mayor Frank Catalini reports that the money needed for Peekskill's Fourth of July fireworks display will be forthcoming this year. The show was in jeopardy of being canceled due to economic difficulties.

The organization of the July 4th extravaganza has traditionally been the purview of Peekskill’s Volunteer Fire Department, which announced in May that this would be the final year the volunteer members of the department would organize, manage, sponsor, and raise funds for the parade due to increased costs.

This July will mark the 55th celebration at the Riverfront Green Park in Peekskill. The celebration and pyrotechnics display draws thousands of families from around the Hudson Valley annually.

“ This is a beloved tradition that must continue. The fireworks not only bring great joy to families but also bring a great deal of business into Peekskill,” said Catalina in a press release from the city GOP's Peekskill United Ticket. Running on the ticket with Catalina are Councilman Joe Torres for reelection, along with Luis Segarra and Bob Sullivan for Common Council. In the press release, the candidates suggested people support the fireworks by clicking onto one of their campaign fundraising pages.

While costs to run the event have gown over the year, donations and support have not kept pace.

“We are so grateful to our Peekskill Fire Department and their commitment to the community,” said Catalina. “We were able to help secure the future of the fireworks through the generous donations of businesses and individuals. Families can once again look forward to celebrating their Fourth of July in Peekskill."

Peekskill Riverfront Concert Series will kick off the July 4th celebration at 7 p.m., and the Peekskill Fire Department will begin their 4th of July Fireworks show at approximately 9:15 p.m.

The concert will be enhanced by a professional sound system company, thanks to a grant from Walmart.
The $2,500 grant is part of Walmart's Community Grant Program. It will also help fund this year's new, Summer Movie Nights at the Riverfront Green Park and Depew Park. The City will present two family friendly movies on Friday nights this summer. The first will be SING at the Riverfront on July 7 and the second will be ZOOTOPIA in Depew Park on Aug. 11.