I love the Fourth of July! I used to watch “Yankee Doodle Dandy” on Million Dollar Movie over and over again for those patriotic classics of George M. Cohan.

For the first time Caramoor Center for the Arts in Katonah will be having fireworks as part of their “Pops, Patriots & Fireworks” Program on Saturday, the Fourth of July.

I am thrilled! I grew up on the Hudson River in Tarrytown and when I was small we were able to see them over the Hudson from the porch roof of our Dutch Colonial. Years later I used to return to Tarrytown and have my Dad treat us to dinner at the Tarrytown Boat Club with fireworks right overhead. I then took my young children to the family friendly programs on the Fourth at Washington Irving Junior High.

Now that I live in Katonah, to have them less than a mile away is such a treat. The musical program is lead by Caramoor’s Michael Barrett with the Orchestra of St. Luke’s. American Classics loved by the whole family - what should be the part of any musical education - include Alan Menken of North Salem’s hits from beloved Disney films, along with Gershwin, Ellington & Sousa Marches. I certainly hope they play Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue”….

Entry starts at 5 with picnicking available on the grounds. Bring your own basket or the Great Performances Catering Company of New York will be having Barbecued favorites available for purchase. The concert is at 8 with fireworks right after at about 9 pm.

There are still tickets available. Go to Caramoor.org or call the box office (recommended if there are children in the party) - 914.232.1252.

Posted By: Karen Benvin Ransom