Invasion Pines Style: July 4th Celebration Draws Thousands

Not everyone was manning a barbeque or jumping in the ocean waves Wednesday. Thousands flocked to Sayville Ferries for the 20-minute trek to the Fire Island Pines and Cherry Grove to enjoy the 36th annual Invasion festivities. For the undoctrined, the event features dozens of drag queens dressed to the nines who leave the Grove shortly after noon and 'invade' the Pines community and then head back to the Grove in what is considered the official kick-off to summer in the two summer communities.

It was an extra special celebration for the Pines which suffered a near disastrous fire in November of 2011 that destroyed the iconic nightclub Pavilion, whose owners said they hope to re-open by 2012. The Sip n Twirl club, which also suffered incredible damage, officially re-opened with a special invite-only party. The Grove's venues, Cherry's and the Ice Palace, were standing-room only as Invasion spectactors and participants danced and enjoyed a beautiful day.