Families, veterans, performers, artisans, and community organizations gathered at the America the Beautiful Festival on June 13–14 for a weekend celebrating American heritage, freedom, and cultural diversity.
Held at New Century in Port Jervis, NY, the fourth annual festival featured live music, historical reenactments, food vendors, arts and crafts, children’s activities, a car show, and special tributes marking America’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
One of the event’s most memorable moments came when acclaimed West Point vocalist Sgt. Maj. MaryKay Messenger invited students from Little Lotus Academy to perform alongside her on stage. Students in grades 2 through 5 sang Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy” in Chinese, English, and Spanish.
Messenger first visited Little Lotus Academy last year and taught a vocal class to students. Remembering the children, she later asked organizers if they could join her on stage this year.
Patriotism remained a central theme throughout the festival. During one stage presentation, a performer standing alongside a reenactor portraying George Washington encouraged the audience to reflect on America’s founding ideals.
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“Stay the course, finish the fight, never surrender,” he said. “Does that Star-Spangled Banner still wave?”
The crowd then joined together in singing the national anthem.
Visitors enjoy cultural exchange
For many attendees, the festival provided an opportunity to learn about different cultures while connecting with the community.
Rebecca, a local resident attending for the first time, said she especially appreciated the cultural displays.
“I love learning about all the different cultures,” she said. “Truthfulness, compassion, and forbearance are universal principles. Everybody wants to be truthful and kind.”
Chris, a visitor from Boston who stopped while traveling with his family, said the event left a positive impression.
“It was a fun and nice experience for me and my family,” he said. “The most impressive thing is how we could all come together as a community and make this happen for everybody.”
Artisans draw crowds
One of the most popular attractions was live chainsaw carving by two-time world champion woodcarver Dennis Beach.
Beach spent the weekend creating large eagle sculptures, a fitting symbol for the patriotic festival.
“The big eagle is the most important piece I did today because it fits in with the Freedom Festival,” he said.
The award-winning artist, who earned world championship titles in Germany, explained that every carving begins with careful preparation and selecting the right wood for each project.
Although the work is demanding, Beach said interacting with visitors is what makes live carving special.
“I love to carve in front of people,” he said. “I like to see that people enjoy it.”
Returning vendor Andy’s Custom Woodwork also showcased handcrafted tables, cutting boards, and serving trays.
Owner Andrew, a veteran from Monticello, said he enjoys both the business opportunities and the patriotic atmosphere.
“It’s nice to be with people who love America,” he said. “People need to be proud of that.”
Community organizations connect with families
Several organizations used the festival as an opportunity to engage with residents.
Representatives from the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision attended to recruit correction officers and civilian staff.
Officer Phipps said the agency has participated for several years and values the opportunity to connect with the public.
“Every interaction has been really good,” he said.
Volunteers from the Arts and Culture Festival emphasized the importance of preserving traditional values and bringing different cultures together.
“The American principles of freedom, the pursuit of happiness, and religious freedom are very important,” said volunteer Jane.
Representatives from Turning Point USA also participated through Club America. Renee, who oversees operations in Upstate New York and Vermont, said the organization works with students to better understand the Constitution and civic engagement.
“We love America, and we love to be around other people who love America as well,” she said.
Meanwhile, staff from Northern Medical Center shared information about healthcare and wellness services.
Yanzi, representing the center, praised the family-friendly atmosphere.
“It’s beautiful to see so many children and families learning about different cultures,” she said.
A celebration of shared values
Despite the summer heat, visitors, vendors, and organizers agreed that the festival successfully brought people together through a shared appreciation for freedom, culture, and community.
From patriotic performances and historical tributes to artisan demonstrations and family activities, the America the Beautiful Festival once again highlighted the values that unite people from different backgrounds.
As one visitor summarized, the event’s greatest success was simple:
“We could all come together as a community and make this happen for everybody.”
