Salem July 4th Fireworks, Parades, And More: 2019 Guide

SALEM, MA — July 4th is quickly approaching, which means it's time to fire up that barbecue and find out what Fourth of July fireworks and festivities are going on near you this Independence Day. We gathered up all the fireworks shows, parades and festivals happening in and around Salem so you can start planning now.

Here's what's in store this July 4th in Salem:

July 4th Festivities

Salem Fireworks

Where: Derby Wharf

When: Dusk (~9:15 p.m.) on July 4th

From Salem.org: "Bring your beach blankets and folding chairs to enjoy the 42-piece Hillyer Festival Orchestra on Derby Wharf at the Salem Maritime National Historic Site for a grand celebration of our nation’s Independence Day. Featuring a Pops concert, a Kid Space play area, and fireworks launched over Salem Harbor, this is a quintessential celebration of the 4th of July."

Declaration of Independence With Salem Mayor Kim Driscoll

Where: Salem Common

When: 9 a.m on July 4th

A reading of the Declaration of Independence, with musical accompaniment by local musicians.

Kids' Space

Where: Salem Common

When: 5 p.m. on Thursday, July 4

Free kids games and activities

LUX Quartet

Where: Salem Common

When: 5 p.m. on Thursday, July 4

Live entertainment featuring this funky/jazzy/quirky/entertaining/engaging ensemble from the North Shore begins at 5 p.m.

Opening Ceremonies/Parade

Mayor Driscoll and other officials will lead a parade to the Wharf beginning at 7:15. That will be followed by the performance by the Hillyer Festival Orchestra leading up to the fireworks.

Road closures: Derby Street from Herbert Street to Daniels Street, and Orange Street and Curtis Street at Essex Street, will all be closed to traffic from 5:00 pm. until 11:00 p.m.

Avoid driving to Derby Wharf: Seek parking downtown in a lot or Museum Place Garage on New Liberty Street and the South Harbor Garage on Congress Street are available for parking at $5 for the day, with the proceeds being donated directly towards the July 4thcelebration. There is overflow parking at Shetland Properties on Congress Street, or take the commuter rail or Salem Ferry (www.salemferry.com) to avoid anticipated traffic congestion. The last MBTA trains depart Salem station at 10:40 p.m. (southbound) and 10:51 p.m. (northbound/Newburyport Line) and 12:01 a.m. (northbound/Rockport Line)

Know of other events in the area? Post them on the Patch calendar or share details on our free Neighbor Post feature.

Planning a celebration for the Fourth? Check out epic July Fourth essentials like red, white and blue swag, patriotic games and luminous LED lights to ensure your party is the best in the USA.