Riverhead Bonfire, Parade Postponed To Dec. 21

RIVERHEAD, NY — Due to soggy skies, Riverhead's 20th Annual Holiday Parade and Bonfire has been postponed to Saturday, Dec. 21.

The event, hosted by the Riverhead Business Improvement District and Riverhead Town, is a beloved tradition: Kicking off the fun, the Lion's Club Holiday Parade, complete with fire trucks, marching bands, and Santa himself, heads west to east along Main Street; the parade starts at 3 p.m. and finishes along the riverfront at 3:45 p.m., where the roaring bonfire will be waiting.

Next, the Riverhead BIDMA will present Santa, waiting inside his Gingerbread House to welcome kids. Free candy canes and hot chocolate will be provided; pack a picnic, blankets and lawn chairs to stay fireside until 7 p.m.

Bideawee's mobile adoption van will also be ready with dogs and cats ready for forever homes for the holidays. Riverhead restaurants, bars and breweries will be serving food and drinks all day and night, organizers said.

"We are thrilled to once again host this annual event with the positivity and participation of the town and people of Riverhead; making this a special holiday tradition for hundreds of families and children every year," Kristy Verity, executive director of the Riverhead Business Improvement District, said. "Come for an afternoon of community, celebration and cheer, including free visits and photos with Santa, hot chocolate and candy canes. The BID is so proud of our downtown and we enjoy giving back and sharing the holiday spirit with all of Riverhead."

Carolers, performers, businesses, youth groups and community organizations are encouraged to enter a float, decorated vehicle or march in the parade. Those interested can email riverheadbidma@gmail.com.

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