Monday, May 19, 2025
Valley Stream’s long-awaited Midnight Centennial Dance Party kicks off Saturday, May 3, at Hendrickson Park — and the evening promises to be a lively celebration of community, history, and music under the stars. From a commemorative coin to a ribbon-cutting for a freshly rebuilt landmark, here are the top three things you need to know:
1. The ‘Crown Jewel’ gets its spotlight: Arthur J. Hendrickson Park
The Village deliberately chose Hendrickson Park — which Mayor Ed Fare proudly calls the “crown jewel” of Valley Stream’s park system — as the site of this major centennial celebration.
“Between the pool and the jogging track and the gazebo and the community center... everybody flocks to Hendrickson Park,” Fare said. “It’s very fitting that our 100th anniversary celebration is there.”
Central to the evening is the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the park’s newly reconstructed gazebo — a long-overdue update to a beloved but aging structure. “The wood was rotting and falling apart,” Fare explained. “Now we’ve put in this gorgeous brand-new gazebo. Neighboring mayors and county officials are expected to attend.
2. Everyone gets a commemorative centennial coin
For a $20 ticket, guests will receive food, music, and a limited-edition Valley Stream centennial coin, a heavy, 2.25-inch metal keepsake celebrating the village’s 100-year history.
“These challenge coins — or collectible coins, as we’re calling them — are beautiful,” said Fare. “A lot of people, especially Valley Stream alumni who’ve moved away, love having a keepsake like this.”
The coin itself has become a treasured item among local collectors and a nostalgic nod to previous village giveaways, like the wood nickels handed out during the 50th anniversary in 1975. The ceremony will feature a brief set of remarks from local leaders and a live performance of the national anthem.
3. Come for the music and food — stay for the community spirit
The dance party will include both a live band and a DJ, with food served hot inside the community center. The tented event will go on rain or shine, and free electric trolleys will shuttle guests from the pool parking lot to the celebration.
The theme “Under the Stars” invites attendees to dress in costumes from their favorite decade. “Some people love that idea, and some people don’t,” Fare said with a chuckle. “I’ll be in a suit. I don’t want pictures of me for the next 100 years dressed like John Travolta!”
Above all, Fare hopes the event captures the special place Hendrickson Park holds in the hearts of residents. “I graduated from Central High School, and it was always the big thing to go into the park. It holds special significance.”
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