NEWSLETTER
Free Family Fun, Battle of the Bands, and America’s 250th Celebration
Orange County, NY – Orange County’s Freedom Fest returns Saturday, July 18th, with a full day of free family fun, live music, Revolutionary War reenactors, a Kids Zone, Bubble Bus, Battle of the Bands, food and craft vendors and a spectacular fireworks and drone show finale at Thomas Bull Memorial Park in Montgomery.
This year’s celebration will also honor America’s 250th anniversary, bringing history, patriotism, community pride, and summer entertainment together just 50 miles north of New York City.
“Freedom Fest brings out the very best of our great County, from our patriotism and gratitude for our veterans to our strong sense of community,” said Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus. “As we prepare to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, this year’s event will be an especially meaningful opportunity for residents and visitors to come together, honor our nation’s history, and enjoy one of Orange County’s favorite summer traditions.”
“Freedom Fest gives families a reason to spend the day in Orange County and experience the community, history, and energy that make this destination so special,” said Amanda Dana, Director of Orange County Tourism & Film. “From local student musicians to hands-on kids’ activities, it is a celebration that will be both meaningful and fun.”
Gates open at 2:00 p.m. at Thomas Bull Memorial Park, 211 Route 416, Montgomery, N.Y.
Freedom Fest 2026 highlights include:
- Battle of the Bands: Local high school student bands will take the stage beginning at 2:30 p.m. Performers include Chaos in the Kitchen from Garage Music School, Common Ground from School of Rock, and the New York School of Music House Band from New York School of Music.
- Revolutionary War reenactors: Reenactors will bring history to life beginning at 3:00 p.m. and continuing throughout the day, with a break from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Kids Zone: Families can enjoy free children’s activities, including coloring, sensory activities, bounce houses, and carnival-style games (played just for fun and bragging rights).
- Bubble Bus: The Bubble Bus will bring high-energy fun to the Kids Zone beginning at 3:00 p.m.
- Magic by the Great Charlini: A family-friendly magic show will begin at 5:00 p.m.
- Black Dirt Bandits: The popular country-rock band will perform originals and covers beginning at 6:30 p.m.
- Fireworks and Drone Show: The evening will conclude at dusk with a patriotic fireworks and drone show.
Food vendors and craft vendors will also be on site throughout the event.
Parking is free. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs, food, and non-alcoholic beverages. Glass containers, pets, sparklers and pop-up tents are not permitted. The rain date is July 25th.
For more information and event updates, visit tinyurl.com/OCNY-
Learn more about America 250 celebrations in Orange County, NY at ocny250.com.
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