America turns 250 this year, and Port Jervis is throwing one hell of a birthday party. Fireworks. Live music. George Washington and Ben Franklin walking the grounds. A giant car show. Chainsaw carving by a world champion. Carnival rides. Lobster rolls. Slow-smoked barbecue. A birthday cake cut with a saber.

🔥 HVH’s Top 5 BBQ Joints in New York You Have to Try Forget what you thought you knew about great BBQ—New York is packing serious heat. From farm-smoked brisket in the Hudson Valley to retro gas station meat temples and beer-garden rib royalty, we’ve rounded up five mom-and-pop BBQ joints that are blowing smoke in all the best ways. No chains, no shortcuts—just real-deal pitmaster passion and finger-lickin’ flavors.