Towns across Connecticut are preparing to celebrate Independence Day with fireworks shows, concerts, parades, and community festivals. From dazzling displays over harbors to all-day amusement park fun, residents will have plenty of options to enjoy the holiday, with many events free to attend.
Here are five of the biggest fireworks shows happening in Connecticut this Fourth of July:
- Norwich Harbor Fireworks
Norwich’s annual fireworks show will light up the sky over the harbor with bursts of color. The free event, hosted by the Norwich Events Organization, also features live music, food trucks, face painting, and kids’ crafts at Howard T. Brown Memorial Park.
When: Thursday, July 3 from 6-10 p.m., fireworks at 9:15 p.m.
Where: Howard T. Brown Memorial Park, 100 Chelsea Harbor Dr., Norwich - Hartford Bonanza
Connecticut’s capital city brings back its annual Independence Day weekend celebration, Hartford Bonanza. The free festival includes live music, DJs, food trucks, vendors, a beer garden, a carousel, and a Civic Marketplace promoting civic engagement, cultural understanding, and neighborhood activities.
When: Saturday, July 5 from 4-10 p.m., fireworks at 10 p.m.
Where: Bushnell Park, 1 Jewell St., Hartford - Great American Boom
One of the state’s largest Independence Day celebrations, New Britain’s Great American Boom draws around 40,000 people. The event features a fireworks show, food trucks, and a dance party with a DJ. Parking is $10 per car, with passes available for purchase online and pickup at the New Britain Recreation and Community Services Department through July 3.
When: Friday, July 4 from 6-10:30 p.m., fireworks around 9:30 p.m.
Where: Willow Brook Park, 200 Mill St., New Britain - Lake Compounce Summer Fireworks
Visitors can spend the day enjoying rides, waterslides, live music, and games at Lake Compounce before watching fireworks over the lake at night. Discounted online tickets are available during the park’s Fourth of July Sale.
When: Friday, July 4 and Saturday, July 5 at 9:30 p.m., park open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: Lake Compounce, 185 Enterprise Dr., Bristol - Naugatuck Fireworks Festival
Naugatuck’s annual festival features live music, food vendors, face painting, and temporary airbrush tattoos, all leading up to a fireworks show over Church Street.
When: Friday, July 4 from 5-10 p.m., fireworks at 9 p.m.
Where: Church Street, Naugatuck
Officials remind residents to follow local safety guidelines and arrive early for the best viewing spots.
