As the Fourth of July approaches, towns across New Hampshire are gearing up for a weekend filled with fireworks shows, parades, concerts, and more to celebrate America’s independence. From historical festivals to live music and fireworks over roller coasters, there are plenty of events happening across the state, many of which are free to attend.
Portsmouth Annual Fireworks Display
- Date: Thursday, July 3
- Time: Fireworks at 9:15 p.m.
- Location: South Mill Pond, Portsmouth
- Rain Date: Saturday, July 5
Five of the Biggest Fireworks Shows in New Hampshire
Ashland Independence Day Celebration
- Date: Thursday, July 3
- Time: Festival from 4 to 9:30 p.m., Fireworks at 9:30 p.m.
- Location: Ashland Ballpark, Main Street, Ashland
- Details: Food trucks, live music, bounce house, bungee jumping, games, and more
- Additional Events: Pancake breakfast and parade on July 4, road race on July 5
Fireworks Celebration at Tuscan Village
- Date: Wednesday, July 2
- Time: Festivities begin at 2 p.m., Fireworks at approximately 9 p.m.
- Location: Tuscan Village, 9 Via Toscana, Salem
- Details: Live entertainment, food trucks, drinks from Sam Adams, shopping, and more
American Independence Festival (Exeter)
- Date: Saturday, July 12
- Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Location: American Independence Museum, 1 Governors Lane, Exeter
- Details: Historical festival with a live reading of the Declaration of Independence, military demonstrations, artisan village, colonial games, beer garden, and actors in period costumes
Gorham 4th of July Celebration
- Date: Thursday, July 3 through Sunday, July 6
- Time: Events begin July 3 at 5 p.m., Fireworks at 10 p.m. on Friday, July 4
- Location: Gorham Common, Gorham
- Details: Four-day event with carnival rides, live music, car parade, kids parade, and Independence Day parade
Canobie Lake Park Fireworks
- Dates: Thursday, July 3 and Friday, July 4
- Time: Fireworks at 9:15 p.m.
- Location: 85 N. Policy St., Salem
- Park Hours:
- Monday-Thursday: 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Friday-Saturday: 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Sunday: 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Extended hours to 10 p.m. on July 3
- Admission: $53-$59 per person, discounted tickets available for seniors and young children, special nighttime tickets and season passes available
Note: Many southern Maine towns also host Independence Day festivities, offering even more ways to celebrate the holiday close to home.
