by Sarah Scheuer
What to do on the 4th of July during a pandemic? Nyack’s famous fireworks have been canceled, but all is not lost! Here are some ways you can spend Independence Day in town.
Morning:
Parks and outdoor spaces are open all around Rockland. Head to these great spots in the morning, before they get too crowded. You can enjoy a peaceful walk around Rockland Lake, a scenic hike up Hook Mountain, or a riverside picnic at Nyack Beach State Park.
Afternoon:
If you are able, host a socially distanced BBQ at home! Join a small group of friends who are spaced out at least 6 feet apart on lawn chairs. Let guests grab their food one at a time and provide hand sanitizer for frequent use. If a BBQ is not ideal for you or your family, several restaurants around Nyack have confirmed that they will be open for takeout and delivery on July 4th; to name a few favorites, Turiello’s, Pizza Bistro, and King and I.
For many in Nyack, it is a difficult time to celebrate America. You may choose to support local or National organizations that are tirelessly working for justice.
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The Nyack Center is normally bustling with events and programs, especially for children and youth. The center has always been a vital support network for community members, providing food and other resources to local families. Its role is especially important at a time when fewer people can rely on their jobs for necessary meals and supplies. You can donate to the Nyack Center directly through its website. It’s are also currently running a Black Lives Matter lawn sign fundraiser, which you can find here.
Some active National organizations you may consider supporting are Liberation Library, The Bail Project, Run with Maud, and Justice for Breonna. Donating is not the only way to help. Most of these organizations are also asking volunteers to make calls and/or sign petitions.
Small businesses are struggling in the midst of COVID-19. Consider shopping local! Though many shops will not be open on the 4th, they will be on the 3rd and 5th. Maria Louisa Boutique will be open from 11a-5p on Friday and Sunday, and you can order online from the boutique on the 4th. Pickwick Bookshop is also open for contactless delivery, curbside pickup, and online orders. All Nyack locations are providing safe ways to shop such as limited customers allowed inside at one time. Call any local store to come up with a plan to shop safely this July 4th weekend.
Evening:
Stay in and watch a movie! For Disney Plus subscribers, a filmed version of Hamilton will begin streaming on July 3rd. The musical, which is all about the American Revolution, is being released at just the right time.
If you’d rather be out and about, the Mario Cuomo Bridge has a new walking and bike path that is open until 10p daily. Plan to be on the bridge by 8:30p for an unforgettable sunset view.
This July 4th will be different, but it can still be meaningful. On this day, we can enjoy all that Nyack has to offer and give to those who need our support now more than ever.
Sarah Scheuer is a Nyack News & Views Intern.
The regular Nyack Weekender is on hiatus during the pandemic. In its place we are inviting community members for their recommendations of books, movies, TV shows, comfort foods, etc for each weekend. You can get each week’s update delivered to your mailbox auto-magically every Friday morning, by adding your name to our mail list. Visit our online sign-up sheet to subscribe.
