Scarsdale Shines Bright: July 4th Week

This year, Scarsdale celebrated Independence Day with a series of vibrant events at the Scarsdale Pool, bringing the community together in joyous festivities. The events drew a record breaking crowd. Recreaction Department Supervisor Brian Gray said, "The Department of Parks and Recreation estimates we had in excess of 3,500 people within the pool complex to view the Fireworks and another estimated 2,000 people on surrounding athletic fields, riding stables and the Saxon Woods Golf Course. It was the biggest crowd I have witnessed at the complex."

The celebration began on the evening of July 2nd with a spectacular display of fireworks. Families and friends arrived early to secure the best spots on the grass, setting up blankets in excitement for the evening’s affairs. As they waited for the sparkling show, the tantalizing aroma of hotdogs and fried chicken tenders filled the air, with many taking the opportunity to enjoy these fresh delights.

Acting Village Manager added, "In order to accommodate the crowds, the Village closed portions of Mamaroneck Road and advised residents with a press release and through the use of Everbridge Communications the day before and day of the event to increase awareness about the traffic pattern and road closures."

The wait was made even more enjoyable by the Westchester Band, which delivered captivating performances of over a dozen pieces, including patriotic classics like "American Overture" and "Stars and Stripes Forever." The band’s rendition of "Y.M.C.A.” was a highlight of the evening, as the crowd enthusiastically joined in, performing the iconic dance moves with gusto. The music, combined with the community’s energy, set the perfect tone for the night’s grand finale.

“I love how we’re all able to come together as a community to enjoy a mutual holiday of the country,” commented Santi Zraick, a student at Scarsdale High School. “Events like this provide a shared experience where people from diverse backgrounds come together to celebrate a common heritage or occasion… they can create memories that Scarsdale residents can cherish together”.

As darkness filled the space, so did a sharp silence as anticipation rose. However, the quiet was soon replaced by cheers and sounds of awe as the fireworks lit up the sky in a dazzling array of colors and patterns. Streams of sparks cascaded down, creating an amazing spectacle that danced in the background of the night sky. Each explosion seemed to outdo the last, filling the air with reverberations that echoed throughout the park. Phones were out, capturing every mesmerizing moment. The traffic on the drive home was well worth it.

The celebrations continued on July 4th with a full day of activities once again at the Scarsdale pool. The smell of sunscreen and chlorine wafted through the air. As adults settled in their chairs and soaked in the sun, children’s laughter rang all around as they bounced around in the bounce house and had their faces painted by high school students on the job.

The pool area was particularly busy with kids participating in relay and pool noodle races under the supervision of trustworthy lifeguards. The competitive spirit was friendly and fun, with parents cheering on the children from their lawn chairs. A DJ provided lively music throughout the day, keeping the energy high and the dance floor busy. It also provided the perfect backdrop for families enjoying an ice cream to cool off or for the games ongoing in the water.

“I’m always so impressed with the events that Scarsdale pulls off,” said Cindy Yau. “The way they organize everything, from the fireworks on July 2nd to the many activities today – it really shows how committed our community is to creating amazing experiences."

Scarsdale once again has demonstrated its ability to host vibrant and spectacular celebrations. A shout out to the following for making the event a success:

Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation
Scarsdale Police Department
Scarsdale Fire Department
Scarsdale Department of Public Works
Scarsdale Managers Office
Westchester County Police Department
Westchester County Parks Recreation and Conservation

Photos and text by Eian Tsou.