It’s 4th of July weekend in Rhode Island, which means awkward politicians walking in parades, American flag pants, and fireworks from every corner of the state.
If you’re scouting out the best celebrations, here’s a day-by-day guide to the shows you won’t want to miss.
TONIGHT
Smithfield
The folks in Smithfield have an underrated annual show, and they’re smartly holding their display tonight in Deerfield Park ahead of some of the state’s better-known celebrations this weekend. The festivities start at 5 p.m. with food trucks and live music. More info.
SATURDAY
Narragansett
Narragansett punches above its weight when it comes to fireworks, and this year’s show is taking place tomorrow night (along with a beach party on the 4th). There’s a threat of rain in the forecast, so you can circle July 15 for the makeup date. More info.
Advertisement
SUNDAY
Pawtucket
The Paw Sox are gone, but McCoy Stadium is still home to one of the better fireworks shows in Rhode Island. The city will also have live music and food trucks in the Jenks Junior High School parking lot. More info.
Providence
The capital city is holding its first Independence Day celebration since 2019 (stupid COVID), so you can expect a huge turnout at India Point Park. The city never skimps on the best fireworks, and there will be plenty of family-friendly entertainment. More info.
MONDAY
Newport
There isn’t a better way to cap off a long weekend than with a trip to Newport for my favorite fireworks display in the state. The city recommends Perrotti Park, King Park, and Queen Anne Square as the best viewing locations. More info.
Jamestown
If someone in your family is sensitive to the big booms of fireworks, the city of Jamestown will have a place for the public to enjoy a “quiet fireworks” display at Beavertail State Park in Jamestown. From there, viewers may watch the Newport show that’s held across Narragansett Bay; the explosions are several miles away, so you get all the spark with less of the bang. The viewing area is wheelchair-accessible and stroller-friendly, and Rhode Island Park rules apply. The show is from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. A rain date is scheduled July 5. More info.
Advertisement
Looking for other fun things to do? We’ve got you covered.
This story first appeared in Rhode Map, our free newsletter about Rhode Island that also contains information about local events, data about the coronavirus in the state, and more. If you’d like to receive it via e-mail Monday through Friday, you can sign up here.
This story has been updated with details about the event in Jamestown.
Dan McGowan can be reached at dan.mcgowan@globe.com. Follow him @danmcgowan.