Summer Soirée, Orient fireworks show highlight weekend festivities

Better late than never.

The Fourth of July may be long past, but fireworks will finally light up Orient Harbor on Saturday night after bad weather repeatedly postponed the popular summer spectacular.

The festivities to celebrate America’s 250th birthday were originally slated for June 27, then July 10 and again on July 18.

Now the show — which was nearly canceled altogether after some residents raised concerns about parking, safety and noise before a recent green light from the Town Board — is scheduled to begin at 9:15 p.m.

And this time, the weather appears ready to cooperate. Saturday’s forecast calls for mostly clear skies over Orient Harbor Saturday night.

The show, organized by Orient Harbor July 4th Festivities Inc., is funded entirely through private donations. Organizers have set a $40,000 fundraising goal.

“America’s 250th definitely played into my decision making, and that’s such a big anniversary for our country,” Town Supervisor Al Krupski told The Suffolk Times on Friday.

Mr. Krupski said watching fireworks over the harbor offers a different experience from displays on land.

“It is really a great experience to witness that because you’re on the water and the reflection off the water,” he said. “It is a different way of experiencing that. It was very exciting.”

Mr. Krupski added that the town has worked with the police department to address parking and traffic concerns, specifically along Village Lane. 

Parking will be prohibited on one side of the road to improve emergency access, he said. Orient Harbor July 4th Festivities will also be responsible for cleanup after the show.

“I hope everyone is safe and enjoys the fireworks,” Councilman Brian Mealy said.

Before Saturday’s fireworks, Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital will hold its annual Summer Soirée Gala on Friday evening at Peconic Bay Yacht Club in Southold.

The fundraiser begins with cocktails at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m.

“The Summer Soirée is one of our most important fundraising events of the year, because every dollar that’s raised goes directly to supporting our patient care and our critical healthcare initiatives here at Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital,” said Linda Sweeney, the vice president of the Foundation/External Affairs. “Since the inception of this event, thanks to Peconic Bay Yacht Club and their generosity, we have raised more than $2 million.”

Ms. Sweeney said money raised through the event has allowed the hospital to invest in advanced technology, expand clinical services and enhance patient care.

This year’s gala will feature a European-style format, with dinner on the first floor and dancing on the second. The event will honor Samy Sabil for his contributions to the Foundation and the community.

Mr. Sabil built a career in hospitality as a certified sommelier, co-founder of Creative Courses Catering and owner of The North Fork Shack in Southold. He has served on the ELIH Foundation Board since November 2022.

“Samy Sabil is our honoree this year, and we’re proud to honor him,” Ms. Sweeney continued. “His generosity, leadership and dedication to our foundation has made a lasting impact. He exemplifies the spirit of philanthropy and community service.”