The Bear Mountain fireworks extravaganza will be held on Friday, June 28, 2013. These are always scheduled a few days before the 4th. Local historians say that it is to mark the "real" signing of the Declaration of Independence, not some arbitrary date. Look it up. I suspect the main reason is to avoid the traffic rush. A full day of festivities at the Bear Mountain Park are planned starting from the early afternoon until 10 p.m. There is no charge for attendance. Anchoring is free. The Bear Mountain fireworks are unarguably the best on the Hudson River. These are real fireworks where you can anchor close enough to smell the smoke and feel the visceral bang. The best viewing spot is from your boat, sipping a cool beer, while relaxing in one of the most beautiful riverscapes in the USA. The anchorage is just south of the Bear Mountain Bridge on the western shore of the Hudson, near the Bear Mountain State Park. The water shallows rapidly from its 120 foot depth in the middle of the river. There is a reversing current flow so if you plan to spend the night, set out two anchors. Bear Mountain Inn (845-786-2731), a half mile walk uphill from the pier, is one of the largest log buildings south of Canada. The luxury inn was built when the park was opened in 1915. The Inn’s lobby and guest rooms have been totally restored and the large banquet and dining room will reopen during 2013. A gift shop and a nice casual restaurant opened in 2012. The Overlook Lodge (845) 786-2731, is a smaller and more intimate version of the Inn. The dining area of the Lodge offers an unimpeded view of beautiful Hessian Lake. A local favorite festival is the Oktoberfest celebration usually staged on weekends in September and October. Beer, knackwurst, lederhosen and German bands galore. http://www.visitbearmountain.com/ Larry Z