John Legend to headline benefit show at UBS Arena

This Memorial Day weekend Northwell Health will salute U.S. active-duty military, veterans and their families at its annual “Side By Side: A Celebration of Service” featuring a concert by singer-songwriter John Legend at UBS Arena at Belmont Park in Elmont on May 29. Jason Derulo will serve as the special guest.

“Memorial Day weekend is a dedicated time every year to reflect on the sacrifices so many Americans have made in our country’s history,” said Michael Dowling, president and CEO of Northwell in a statement. “We should never take for granted the freedoms we enjoy in this country or forget our heroes in the armed forces who will stop at nothing to protect those freedoms. We are honored to host ‘Side by Side: A Celebration of Service’ for those very reasons — to honor our service members.”

The concert will be preceded by a public block party on May 28 at Flatiron Plaza in Manhattan hosted by actor Alfonso Ribeiro with special appearances by Questlove, stars of Broadway and the Northwell Health Nurse Choir. There will also be games and food selections.

Tickets for the benefit concert go on sale Friday at 10 a.m. via ticketmaster.com. All proceeds will go to fund Northwell Health’s military programs. For more information on the event, visit: SideBySideNYC.com.

By David J. Criblez

david.criblez@newsday.comDavidJCriblez

David J. Criblez is a reporter for Newsday's exploreLI, covering entertainment-related events from local music to stand-up comedy to festivals.