Fourth of July Events Across New England
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From the usual fireworks and parades to more interesting takes on Independence Day celebrations, New England has plenty of fun activities planned for America’s birthday. Check out some of these family-friendly events going on around the region this Fourth of July weekend.
— Matt Juul/Boston.com correspondent
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Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular
The largest Fourth of July bash in New England is the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular on the Esplanade in Boston. This year, due to bad weather, the celebration will take place July 3. This year’s performers include The Beach Boys, Megan Hilty, The Phantom of the Opera, and the Boston Children’s Chorus. The concert begins at 8:30 p.m. and the fireworks begin at 10:30 p.m. Update: the concert has been moved to July 3 due to weather.
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Bristol Fourth of July Celebration
Bristol, R.I.
Now through July 4
While Boston may be the birthplace of the American Revolution, nobody has been celebrating the Fourth of July longer than Bristol. Since 1785, this small Rhode Island seaport has gone all out for America’s birthday, officially kicking off the festivities on Flag Day, June 14. Activities include daily concerts, a Fourth of July Ball and, of course, the annual parade.
Check the website for times and details.
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Boston Harborfest
Boston
July 2-6
Celebrate Boston’s Colonial roots at the 32d annual Harborfest. From scavenger hunts to music and fireworks on the Esplanade, this week-long festival features plenty of activities around the city for everyone.
Check the website for times and details.
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Celebrate America with the Hartford Symphony Orchestra
Simsbury, Conn.
July 3, 7:30 p.m.
Head to the Performing Arts Center at Simsbury Meadows on July 3 for a night of music, fireworks, and fun under the stars. As part of the Talcott Mountain Music Festival, conductor Eric Dudley will lead the Hartford Symphony Orchestra during the concert, which will be immediately followed by fireworks.
Ticket prices vary, check the website for details
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Stowe Old Fashioned Fourth of July
Stowe, Vt.
July 4
Spend the day in Stowe for an old fashioned Independence Day celebration. The Vermont community has plenty of activities for everyone, but get there early if you want to catch the Moscow Parade, which is said to be the shortest Fourth of July parade in the state. Festivities also include a 1.7-mile fun run, which is billed as the “World’s Shortest Marathon.’’
Check the website for times and details.
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Merrimack Fourth of July Celebration
Merrimack, N.H.
July 4
The town of Merrimack has a host of activities taking place this Fourth of July. Kick off the celebration at the annual pancake breakfast. Enjoy music, games, food, and crafts throughout the day. The day will also include an afternoon parade as well as fireworks at night.
Check the website for times and details.
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Stars and Stripes Spectacular
Portland, Maine
July 4
Watch a PSO Patriotic Pops concert featuring Middlesex County Volunteers, Suzanne Nance, and a spectacular fireworks display. Take part in the “Scoop for Kids’’ ice cream fest. The annual event is free.
Check the website for times and details.
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Old Sturbridge Village
Sturbridge
July 4
Looking for a more historical take on Independence Day celebrations? Head to Old Sturbridge Village this Fourth of July to see how life was like in a 19th-century New England village. Activities include food, music, crafts, and entertainment, as well as a buffet dinner at the Oliver Wight Tavern and, of course, fireworks.
Admission is $24 for adults, $22 for seniors and $8 for children ages 3-17. Kids 2 and under are free. Reservations required for the buffet dinner.
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WILI Boom Box Parade
Willimantic, Conn.
July 4, 9 a.m.
Who needs speakers when you have a boom box? Connecticut radio station WILI will be presenting its 29th annual Boom Box Parade this Fourth of July. The station plays marching band music over the air while parade participants use boom boxes to bring the tunes to the streets.
Free
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Independence Day Beach Ball
Watch Hill, R.I.
July 4, 7 p.m.-11 p.m.
Celebrate the Fourth of July at the Ocean House’s Fifth Annual Independence Day Beach Ball. Enjoy a traditional clambake and live music, as well as a grand finale of colorful fireworks over the scenic Rhode Island coast line.
Tickets are $140 for adults.
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Burke Mountain Fourth of July Celebration
East Burke, Vt.
July 4, 6:30 p.m.
While this Vermont getaway is known primarily for its skiing, it is also home to fun-filled Fourth of July festivities. Celebrate Independence Day weekend with live music and plenty of food before ending your evening with a scenic fireworks display.
Check the website for details.
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