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Celebrate Independence Day in Wakefield

Parades, Fireworks, Music, and More!

By Katy Cirrone, Wakefield Macaroni Kid Publisher June 29, 2023

Get ready to celebrate Independence Day in Wakefield! Today’s post is a spotlight on the biggest event of the week: Wakefield’s Independence Day celebration on Thursday, July 4, 2024. The town has lots of fun planned for families of all ages to join. This includes everything from a parade and fireworks, to music, races, and more. Whether you’re looking for the perfect spot to watch fireworks, enjoy live music, or participate in patriotic festivities in Wakefield, we’ve got you covered.

Special thanks to the West Side Social Club and Wakefield Independence Day Committee for bringing these events to our community. Be sure to check out the full list of street closures and parking restrictions.

Read on for the complete list of events and activities from the Town of Wakefield below!

💥Wakefield 2024 Independence Day fireworks & family fun💥

Community Events

Sponsored by the West Side Social Club Fourth of July Committee

  • 7:00 a.m.  |  Fishing Derby Registration
    Registration begins at 7:00 a.m. and the Derby takes place from 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. on the Lower Common. The event is open to children aged 2 to 14 years old. All participants under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
  • 8:00 a.m.  |  Pet Show Registration
    Registration starts at 8:00 a.m. and the Pet Parade begins at 8:30 a.m. on the Upper Common.
  • 8:30 a.m.  |  Cart, Tricycle, and Scooter Parade Registration 
    Registration takes place at 8:30 a.m. and the Cart, Tricycle, and Scooter Parade begins at 9:00 a.m. on the Upper Common.
  • 9:30 a.m.  |  Doll Carriage Parade Registration
    Registration takes place at 9:30 a.m. and the Doll Carriage Parade begins at 10:00 a.m. on the Upper Common.
  • 10:30 a.m.  |  Bicycle Parade Registration
    Registration takes place at 10:30 a.m. and the Bicycle Parade begins at 11:00 a.m. on the Upper Common.
  • 12:00 p.m.  |  Diaper Derby and Running Races
    Babies not yet walking can participate in a Diaper Derby crawling race followed by children’s races (toddlers through 12 years old) and adult races. The events will be held on the Lower Common.
  • 12:30 p.m.  |  Canoe and Kayak Race Registration
    Registration takes place at 12:30 p.m. at the head of the Lake and the races begin at 1:00 p.m. The race moves across to the Lower Common. Participants under 18 years of age must be accompanied an adult.

Wakefield’s 76th Fourth of July Parade

Sponsored by the Wakefield Independence Day Committee

  • 5 p.m.  |   Parade Begins
    This year, the parade features Grand Marshall Cheryl Dalton! The parade departs from the Lakeside Office Park.  It travels down North Avenue, turns left to Church Street, right onto Common Street, and straight through to Main Street. The parade concludes at the Galvin Middle School.

Entertainment & Fireworks

Sponsored by the West Side Social Club Fourth of July Committee

  • 7:00 p.m.  |  Buckley Brothers Band
    Enjoy great music on the Lower Common with the Buckley Brothers Band.
  • 9:15 p.m.     |  Honoring Michael Nasella
    Honoree Michael Nasella will be remembered and the raffle winner will be announced.
  • 9:30 p.m.  |  Fireworks
    Relax and enjoy the dazzling show. 

Tips for Enjoying Independence Day in Wakefield

  • Arrive Early: Popular events can get crowded, so plan to arrive early to secure a good spot.
  • Bring Essentials: Pack sunscreen, water, and snacks to stay comfortable throughout the day.
  • Follow Local Guidelines: Be sure to follow any local health and safety guidelines to ensure a safe celebration for everyone. All chairs and other items left along the parade route and fireworks-viewing locations must be removed by July 5, at 7 a.m.  Any items left in these areas after that time will be removed and disposed of by the Public Works Department. 
  • Consider Ear Protection for Your Child: Fireworks can be loud and overwhelming for young children. Bring ear protection like noise-canceling headphones to ensure they enjoy the festivities without discomfort.

Celebrate Independence Day in Wakefield with family, friends, and community! We hope you have a fantastic time enjoying all the festivities and making wonderful memories. Happy Fourth of July!