The annual gathering of dedicated fans of the legendary Beatles musician John Lennon took place at Strawberry Fields in Central Park on Sunday. The event, which has been a tradition for 44 years, brought together Beatlemaniacs from all over the world to honor the icon’s life and music.

Quent Kelleher, a 60-year-old native New Yorker, has been attending the gathering every year on the anniversary of Lennon’s tragic death on December 8, 1980. He recalls receiving a call from his best friend that fateful night, informing him that Lennon had been shot outside his home near the park. Since then, Kelleher has been coming back to the same spot to pay tribute to the music legend.

The gathering at Strawberry Fields included around 300 fans who came to remember Lennon on his birthday, which coincidentally happens to be the same day he was killed. Kit Stolz, a 70-year-old Californian, attended the event with his partner Valeria Levette. Stolz, a huge Lennon fan, found solace in celebrating the icon’s life on his own birthday.

The atmosphere at the event was described as joyous, with people from diverse backgrounds coming together to commemorate Lennon’s legacy. The crowd passed around joints, played instruments, sang “Imagine,” and even painted pictures of the late musician. The spirit of Lennon was felt by all, with one attendee pointing to a hawk soaring above as a sign of his presence.

For Marty Trent, a 64-year-old from New Jersey, attending the gathering has become a family tradition. He shared a special memento from the vigil 44 years ago – a candle that is burned a little each year in memory of Lennon. The event concluded with a trip to Chinatown for a family meal, marking the day as a time of reflection and togetherness.

Overall, the gathering at Strawberry Fields was a heartfelt tribute to John Lennon, bringing fans together to celebrate his life and music. The event showcased the enduring impact of the music icon and the lasting connection he has with his devoted followers.