Memorial Park

A look into the heart of East Rockaway— Memorial Park

East Rockaway’s Memorial Park is the central site for many of the village's activities, events, and annual traditions. Its main attraction is the annual Huckleberry Frolic, the proceeds from which go to help fund the village's Old Grist Mill Museum. This year’s Frolic was the first since its 50th anniversary celebration in 2019. The annual festivities included more than 30 different vendors, food trucks, a live DJ, a 22-foot slide, and inflatable attractions for kids, as well as a karate demonstration, games, and a petting zoo filled with ducks, sheep, rabbits, and other animals. East Rockaway mayor Bruno Romano described the event as “a huge success,” noting the community was excited to have it back. Park-goers with a love for theatre can always treat themselves to a free show at the Strongbox Theater. The outdoor theater, located in Memorial Park, hosts a series of different one-act plays throughout the summer and on weekends, which include live

Tim Baker/Herald photos Top photo: The village's hidden treasures are hidden in East Rockaway’s Memorial Park . Bottom photo: Welcome to Memorial Park.

musical accompaniment. But the cornerstone of the park is its memorial dedicated to the heroes and victims who lost their lives during the terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. Neighbors, elected officials and organizations gather each year to memorialize the nearly 3,000 innocent lives lost in the attack and the many brave men and women of the New York Police Department and New York City Fire Department who selflessly rushed into the World Trade Center towers on that fateful day.

— Kepherd Daniel

Top photo: Every year residents gather at Memorial Park to remember those who lost their lives during 9/11.

Bottom photo: Kids are commonly found enjoying the Memorial Park Playground, refurbished in 2012.