THE BUZZ: Fourth of July picnic fun

How long has it been since your last picnic?

For Frankie Marra, a musician and activist in Bay Ridge, the idea of starting the tradition of a Fourth of July Picnic right here in the neighborhood was a long time coming.

“Nobody picnics anymore in our community,” the organizer said, of the trend.

So he set about to change that, and six years later, Marra says he is absolutely proud of trying and succeeding at his attempt to bring Bay Ridge together for an open and free 10-hour long picnic on America’s birthday.

“I used to picnic at Owls Head Park with my family and loved it,” Marra said of his childhood days.

To those who decide to stay in town for Independence Day, the picnic offers a fun-filled day of celebratory activities including music by various bands, games, sprinklers, face painters, kid’s rides, prizes, raffles and food.

Residents are welcome to bring their own food, but if forgotten, a variety of goods will be sold at the event—from hot dogs, hamburgers and sausages, to drinks, ice cream and snacks.

Two thousand people—on average—form part of the fun every year, Marra said. This year, the holiday blockbuster is set to commence at 11 a.m. and last until 9 p.m.

“[I] encourage anyone who hasn’t been there to come down,” Marra enthusiastically said.

The picnic’s location is on the 82^nd Street Field at Shore Road.

Marra and his band will play at 6:40 p.m. for the finale. Other bands scheduled to entertain the crowd include Rebelfish, to kick off the fun at noon, followed by “Windsor Terrors” at 1:20 p.m., “Blues Circus” at 2:40 p.m., “High Tides” at 4 p.m., and “The Groove” at 5:20 p.m.

All proceeds will benefit the 68^th Precinct Youth Council and the SWB Parks Task Force.