With Independence Day just around the corner, don’t miss out on a variety of events planned across Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts. Whether you’re a major foodie or a boat connoisseur, there’s something for everyone this year.
If you’re into history, Bristol’s 233rd Fourth of July parade is for you. This town boasts the longest continuously running Independence Day celebration in the nation. Events include a concert series, carnival and Fourth of July beauty pageant in the run-up to Independence Day. Then there’s the excitement of July 4th –Bristol’s parade will feature a rhythmic drum and bugle corps competition and, of course, fireworks.
The region will be buzzing with other parades, too. Don’t miss out on Block Island’s favorite-movie themed July 4th parade, topped off with an all-american steak-fry celebration.
For those hoping to get out on the water, enjoy a relaxing July 4th boat ride from Providence’s Fox Point Marina to India Point. Enjoy the scenic fireworks while sipping some drinks (or BYOB) — and cruise along the waters of Rhode Island’s capital city into the night. Or, enjoy Independence day aboard an America’s Cup 12-meter Yacht. You can catch fireworks as the sun sets on the waters off Newport.
Parents may be interested in a family beach day at North Clubhouse in Narragansett, a day of fun activities and concerts on the beach. Afterwards, consider taking your kids to visit 200 newly hatched, cute and cuddly chicks at the South County Museum’s Living History Farm. If you’re in Westerly, check out the annual Fourth of July Clambake at the Weekapaug Inn to enjoy a wide selection of traditional New England clambake fare, drinks, and s’mores.
And, last but certainly not least, the 92nd annual Ancients and Horribles Parade in Glocester. The satiric floats and costumed participants poke fun at politicians and issues of the day. The parade steps off July 4th at 4 p.m.
Here is is a sampling of other Fourth of July events planned for the coming days:
July 1st
Dartmouth- Picnic and concert at the Russel Mills Schoolhouse, hosted by the Dartmouth Historical and Arts Society. Dartmouth Community Band, with conductor John Furtado.
July 2nd
Pawtucket- Fireworks after the Pawtucket Red Sox game, at McCoy Stadium
Smithfield- Bryant University campus opens 6pm, the U.S. Navy Band plays at 8 p.m., followed by fireworks at 9 p.m.
Block Island – Live music starts at 7:30 at the town beach, then fireworks at 9 p.m.
July 3rd
Attleboro- town fireworks at Attleboro High School; bike parade, kid races and other family-friendly activities the following day at the Poncin-Hewitt Recreation Complex
Scituate- Festivities starting at 5 p.m., fireworks at 9:30 p.m.
East Providence- celebrations start at 6 p.m. at the Pierce Memorial Stadium, with fireworks at around 9 p.m.
North Providence- fireworks at Governor Notte State Park at 6 p.m.
Woonsocket- music starts at 7 p.m. at the Barry Memorial Field, fireworks at 9 p.m.
Cranston- Drum and Bugle Corps Competition, part of the Bristol 4th of July parade, begins at 7 p.m. at Cranston Stadium
North Kingstown- fireworks at dusk at NK Town Beach (10 Beach St)
Bristol- fireworks at dusk in Bristol Harbor
Warwick- fireworks show at Oakland Beach seawall, starting at approximately 9 p.m. Check the city tourism department’s Facebook page for updates.
Cumberland- fireworks at Tucker Field at 9 p.m.
July 4th
Newport- salute to William Ellery, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, music and more, starting at 9 a.m., fireworks show starts at 9:15 p.m. at Newport Harbor
Glocester- 45th annual Fourth of July Road Race at 9 a.m. in front of Chepachet Union Church
Narragansett- fireworks at the Narragansett Town Beach at 5 p.m.
South Kingston- Live music starts at 6 p.m., with fireworks around 9 p.m.
Westerly- Fourth of July Clambake at Weekapaug Inn at 6:30 p.m.
Providence- Independence Day celebration starts at 7 p.m. at India Point Park, with fireworks at 9:15. Boat rides depart Fox Point Marina at 8:00 p.m.
Fall River- fireworks viewing from the battleship at Battleship Cove, gates open at 7:30 p.m.
Jamestown- fireworks at East Ferry Beach at 9 p.m.
New Bedford- fireworks over New Bedford Harbor, starting at 9 p.m.
Portsmouth – Fireworks at Escobar’s Farm, starting 9 p.m.