Freedom Fest FAQs
Everything guests need to know before Freedom Fest at Catholic Health Amphitheater at Bald Hill on July 3, including entry, parking, seating, VIP, accessibility, and event policies.
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers for guests attending Freedom Fest, covering tickets, parking, venue access, food and drink, VIP, fireworks, and more.
What is Freedom Fest 250?
Freedom Fest 250 is a special celebration of America’s 250th anniversary featuring a live country concert with Brett Young followed by a spectacular fireworks show. The event is presented by Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine as part of the County’s celebration of America.
When is the event?
Freedom Fest 250 will take place on July 3. Gates open at 4:00 PM, the concert begins at 6:00 PM, and the fireworks show will immediately follow the performance.
Where is the concert being held?
The event will take place at the Catholic Health Amphitheater at Bald Hill in Farmingville.
Do I need a ticket to attend?
Yes. The show is free, but a ticket is required for entry. Free tickets are first come, first served through designated locations and promotions. A limited number of VIP tickets are also available for purchase on Ticketmaster.
What time should I arrive?
Guests are encouraged to arrive early to allow time for parking, security screening, and finding their seats before the show begins.
Is parking available?
Yes. Parking is available at and around the amphitheater. There is a fee for on-site venue parking. Free parking is available at Brookhaven Town Hall, and shuttle buses will run to the venue and back after the show until all guests are accommodated.
Are there premium or VIP seating options available?
Yes. A limited number of VIP and premium seating packages are available and offer premium seating, a VIP entrance, and other upgraded amenities. Only 250 VIP tickets are available for this show.
Can I upgrade my tickets to VIP?
VIP tickets can be purchased in advance on Ticketmaster for $100. If VIP tickets are still available, upgrades may also be possible. Check the official ticket page for current availability.
What does VIP include?
VIP packages may include:
- Premium seating
- VIP entrance
- Exclusive hospitality area
- Private bar and restrooms
Will there be an opening act before Brett Young?
Yes. Locmore and DJ Deuce will perform before the main set. Additional entertainment details and any invited dignitaries will be announced closer to the event.
Are outside food and drinks allowed?
No. Outside food and beverages are not permitted. Food and drinks will be available for purchase inside the venue.
Will there be food vendors?
Yes. A variety of food and beverage vendors will be on-site offering refreshments throughout the evening.
Can I bring a bag or backpack?
Small bags and purses are allowed, but all bags are subject to security screening. Large bags, coolers, and oversized backpacks are not permitted.
What items are prohibited?
For the safety of all guests, the following items are not allowed inside the venue:
- Outside alcohol
- Weapons of any kind
- Fireworks or sparklers
- Large coolers
- Drones
- Professional cameras without credentials
Can I bring my own alcohol?
No. Outside alcohol is strictly prohibited. Beer, wine, and other beverages will be available for purchase inside the venue.
Can I bring a camera?
Small personal cameras are allowed. Professional cameras with detachable lenses or video equipment are not permitted unless you have media credentials.
Can I bring chairs, blankets, or a stroller?
Guests in lawn seating areas may bring blankets or low-back lawn chairs unless otherwise posted by the venue. Strollers are allowed, but they must be parked in designated areas and cannot block aisles or seating.
Is the event family friendly?
Yes. Freedom Fest 250 is designed to be a fun, family-friendly celebration for guests of all ages.
Will there be fireworks?
Yes. A world-class fireworks show will immediately follow the concert to celebrate America’s 250th birthday.
What time will the fireworks start?
The fireworks spectacular will begin immediately following the concert performance by Brett Young.
Can I watch the fireworks if I don’t attend the concert?
The fireworks are part of the Freedom Fest event experience, and viewing inside the venue requires a ticket.
What happens if it rains?
Freedom Fest 250 is a rain-or-shine event. In the event of severe weather, updates will be provided on the event website, social media, and on 96.1 FM, 98.1 FM, and 104.9 FM.
Is the venue accessible?
Yes. The amphitheater provides accessible seating and accommodations. The on-site box office in the parking lot will be staffed with a team that can assist guests.
Is re-entry allowed if I leave the venue?
No. For security and crowd management reasons, re-entry is not permitted once your ticket has been scanned and you enter the venue.
Will rideshare services like Uber or Lyft be available?
Yes. Guests may use rideshare services. A designated pickup and drop-off location will be available near the venue.
Will there be merchandise available?
Yes. Official event and artist merchandise will be available for purchase at designated merchandise stands inside the venue.
Can I bring flags or patriotic items?
Yes. Guests are encouraged to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with flags and patriotic spirit, as long as items do not obstruct the view of other guests.
Will there be security at the event?
Yes. Security personnel and local authorities will be present to help ensure a safe and enjoyable event for all guests.
What should I bring to the event?
We recommend bringing:
- Your ticket, either mobile or printed
- A valid ID
- Comfortable clothing
- Sunscreen if arriving early
- A blanket or low lawn chair for lawn seating
Will this event sell out?
Freedom Fest has limited seating capacity at the Catholic Health Amphitheater at Bald Hill, and large holiday events can fill quickly. Guests are encouraged to secure free tickets as soon as they become available and purchase VIP tickets early if they want guaranteed upgraded access.
Can I bring a group to the event?
Yes. Freedom Fest is a great event for families, friends, and company outings. Group ticket options may be available for larger parties.
Are there sponsorship or hospitality opportunities?
Yes. A limited number of corporate hospitality and sponsorship opportunities are available. Interested businesses can contact Bruce at bruce@jvcbroadcasting.com.
Can local businesses participate in the event?
Select local vendors and promotional partners may have opportunities to participate. Interested businesses can contact Bruce at bruce@jvcbroadcasting.com.
How long will the event last?
Guests can expect a full evening of entertainment, including live music, the headline performance by Brett Young, and a large fireworks finale.
Why is this event on July 3 instead of July 4?
Hosting Freedom Fest on July 3 allows guests to celebrate early with a major concert and fireworks experience while still enjoying traditional Independence Day celebrations with family and friends on July 4. There will be no fireworks show at this venue on July 4.
How can I stay updated about the event?
Follow the official social media pages and check LI Country and I Love Suffolk for updates. Information will also be broadcast on My Country 96.1 FM, Big 98.1 FM, and 104.9 FM.
More event details will continue to be added.
Check back for updated ticket information, event reminders, and additional guest guidance as Freedom Fest gets closer.
