Beloved Annual Riverhead Bonfire, Holiday Parade Back

RIVERHEAD, NY — After a pause due to the pandemic, one of Riverhead's most beloved traditions returns this weekend as the annual Holiday Parade and Bonfire unfolds.

The event takes place Saturday, with the 69th Annual Lions Club Holiday Parade kicking off at 3 p.m. on Main Street and the 21st Annual Bonfire scheduled from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on the Peconic Riverfront. Free hot cocoa and candy canes will be available, with Santa onhand for photos.

Hosted by the Riverhead Business Improvement District, the Town of Riverhead, and the Riverhead Lions Club, the event, with a rain date of Dec. 18, also includes emcee Mark MK McLaughlin entertaining with games and activities and holiday music provided by DJ Phil, as well caroling by the Riverhead High School chamber choir and the Riverhead Charter School chorus. Studio East Dance Center will kick off the bonfire festivities with two holiday dance routines.

Downtown restaurants, bars and breweries will be serving food and drinks all day and night, inviting guests to enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner and socializing downtown, organizers said.

For handmade and artisanal gifts, East End Arts is hosting a ‘Shop Local Holiday Market’ throughout the weekend.

“Downtown has had a phenomenal comeback year and we are thrilled to end 2021 with the community by our side,” Kristy Verity, executive director of the Riverhead Business Improvement District said. “The holiday parade and bonfire are special traditions for hundreds of families and a true celebration of Riverhead’s history, townspeople, and togetherness. We sincerely enjoy giving back and sharing the holiday spirit with all who have inspired us throughout the year.”