Locals gathered by the waterside at Astoria Park on June 29, for the annual Independence Day fireworks display. Sponsored by the Central Astoria Local Development Coalition, the event kicked off the 4th of July holiday weekend with a bang.
(Photos By Walter Karling)
Fireworks display in the East River by the Hell Gate Bridge.
Friends from the neighborhood enjoyed a picnic before the fireworks.
They had a great time: Anche Lee and Tommy Onolfo.
Enjoying the patriotic evening: Zina Benkyane, Hana Hamisa, and her brother Yassine Hamisa.
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards greets attendees.
The Swingtime Big Band provided musical entertainment.
Organizers and local politicians: George Stamatiades, president of the CALDC; NYC Councilwoman Tiffany Caban; NYS Senator Michael Gianaris; Tony Barsamian, executive vice-president of the CALDC; and Marie Torniali, executive director of the CALDC.