Community

Community Celebrations: Independence Day

Nicci Kadilak

— 3 min read
Community Celebrations: Independence Day
red, white, and blue flowers, fruit, and napkin

Celebrated on July 4 each year, United States Independence Day marks the day the Declaration of Independence was ratified by the first 13 American colonies. According to History.com, the idea of complete independence of the colonies from Britain was originally considered to be radical, but the concept grew on colonists and the Revolutionary War was fought to further this cause.

A federal holiday, Independence Day is celebrated with parades, fireworks, cookouts, and reflections on independence such as readings of the Declaration of Independence, especially in the greater Boston area where the revolution began.

Learn More About Independence Day

This list of resources will grow as community members contribute. Send recommendations to hello@burlington.buzz.

  • Town & Country Magazine has a varied list of films for your consumption this July Fourth, from Forrest Gump and the Sandlot to Hidden Figures and Hamilton.
  • This reading list from Charis Books seeks to help deepen our understanding of United States History, including looking at the Indigenous and Black perspective.
  • And this one, from Entertainment Weekly, looks at the colonial period and various characters, both well-known and lesser-known of that time.

In-person and online resources

We live in a place of much revolutionary history, from the city of Boston where you can see where many of the pivotal events of the fight for independence happened as well as burial grounds where many key figures were laid to rest, to the nearby towns of Lexington and Concord where the first shots of the war were fired and much more.

Hit up a Duck Tour or walk the Freedom Trail, or visit Minuteman Park, or the Concord Museum to learn more about these key people and events.

Where to Celebrate Independence Day near Burlington

Below are just a few events happening nearby to celebrate Independence Day. Let us know if you have one you’d like to add, especially ones in town!

Many towns near Burlington will be hosting Independence Day celebrations; here are just a few.

  • Wilmington's Fun on the Fourth celebration is from June 26-30 this year. Families can celebrate with a carnival, concert, and more, and the festival tops off with Spectacular Fireworks at 9:30 PM on Sunday June 30. (Rain Date: July 1)
  • Tewksbury will be displaying fireworks at the Livingston Recreation Area on July 2 at 9:30 PM. (Rain Date: July 7)
  • Old Sturbridge Village will be highlighting the historical side of the Fourth of July all day.
  • Burlington hosts its Fourth of July Parade every year with the support of local businesses. Join the Buzz and dozens of performing groups and local businesses for a fun day of entertainment and celebration. The parade route closes at 9:30 AM, and the parade begins at 11:00. This event will occur rain or shine, though after last year's rain it's safe to say we are all hoping for shine! Let us know if you'd like to march with us! Kids welcome!
  • The family-friendly Lowell Independence Day celebration is on July 4 from 6:00-9:30 PM. (Sold Out)
  • Other celebrations in the seat of our nation's independence: Lexington carnival July 3-7 | Concord | Bedford

How do you observe Independence Day? What resources do you like to reference during this time? Share your stories with us by emailing hello@burlington.buzz, and your story could be added to this feature!

What are you celebrating or observing? Let us know at hello@burlington.buzz!

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