1976 was an exciting year for the United States. 

Across America, communities were preparing a whole year’s worth of events to celebrate the bicentennial of the Declaration of Independence. The theme was “The Spirit of ‘76” and Betsy Ross flags, tri-corner hats, and history lectures were making their way  from classrooms to holiday celebrations.

The “Stars and Stripes 200” Northport-East Northport Bicentennial Committee, led by Northport couple Sherry and Stuart Learned and student Stephen Banzer, started laying plans a year in advance for local festivities. The pinnacle of the celebrations came in the weeks leading up to the Fourth of July, the nation’s birthday. 

Here’s how more than 5,000 Northporters and visitors celebrated.