Not every fireworks show happens on the Fourth this year, and that’s exactly why we put this guide together. A pair of displays kicks off the holiday weekend on Friday, with even more fireworks lighting up the sky in the days that follow if you’re not quite ready for the celebration to end.
The biggest parade of the weekend rolls through Groton, but some of our favorite traditions come from the smaller communities. From patriotic marches and historic celebrations to a parade unlike any other, we’ve rounded up the best places to celebrate America’s birthday. Take a look and find the one that’s right for you.
Parades
4th of July Parade: Celebrating 250!
Saturday July 4 @ 10:00 am
Groton celebrates America’s 250th birthday with a parade featuring colorful floats, marching groups, music, and hometown pride. It’s one of the region’s biggest Independence Day traditions and a great way to kick off the holiday. Read More
4th of July Parade in the Stonington Borough
Saturday July 4 @ 10:00 am
You don’t have to stand on the sidewalk for this parade—you can join in! Bring a flag, decorate your bike or wagon, and march through the historic Stonington Borough before gathering for the traditional reading of the Declaration of Independence. Read More
Got it. Here’s the guide entry in the same format as the others.
Red, White, and Blue Independence Day Parade
Saturday, July 4 @ 10:00 AM
Join one of Old Lyme’s favorite Fourth of July traditions as decorated bikes, colorful floats, marching bands, and even pets make their way through Sound View. Whether you’re taking part or watching from the sidelines, it’s a fun hometown parade filled with patriotic spirit. Read More
Mystic Seaport Museum July 4 Antiques & Horribles Parade
Saturday July 4 @ 12:30 pm
If you’ve never seen an Antiques & Horribles Parade, you’re in for something different. Funny costumes, playful characters, and a tradition that stretches back nearly 150 years make this one of the shoreline’s most memorable Fourth of July events. Read More
Independence Day Boat Parade
Saturday July 4 @ 12:00 pm
Not every Fourth of July parade happens on land. Head to Essex to watch boats of every shape and size cruise down the Connecticut River decked out for the holiday, then stick around for museum exhibits, family activities, and booming cannon fire celebrating America’s 250th birthday. Read More
Fireworks
First Friday Norwich: Red, White & Boom!
Friday July 3 @ 6 pm (Fireworks at 9:15 pm)
One of the biggest fireworks shows of the Fourth of July weekend in Connecticut lights up the sky over Norwich Harbor. Arrive early to enjoy live music, great food, and family fun before the light show begins. Read More
Fireworks at the Weekapaug Inn
Friday July 3 @ 8:30 pm (tentatively)
Kick off the holiday weekend as fireworks light up the sky over beautiful Weekapaug. Just remember that parking at the Weekapaug Inn is reserved for registered guests, so plan ahead. Read More
Charlestown’s America 250 Celebration
Thursday July 9 @ 6 pm (Fireworks @ 9 pm)
The Fourth of July may be over, but the fireworks aren’t. Head to Ninigret Park for live music, food trucks, and a spectacular fireworks finale celebrating America’s 250th birthday. Read More
Celebrate New London
Saturday July 11 @ 9 am (Fireworks at 9:15 pm)
It might be a week later, but one of the biggest fireworks shows is still to come. Celebrate New London is an all-day event featuring lots of live music, food, and a much-anticipated fireworks display. Read More
Have a safe & happy July 4th weekend!
Last modified: July 2, 2026
