Seasonal & Holidays
Fourth of July In Essex: Celebrate America's 250th
From a brand partner: Plan your holiday weekend with local events, fireworks displays and community festivities.
July 4 falls on a Saturday in 2026, giving Essex residents an extra-long holiday weekend to celebrate. From hometown traditions and community festivals to fireworks displays and family-friendly fun, there are plenty of ways to mark Independence Day close to home.
This year's holiday also coincides with America's 250th birthday, making it an especially memorable time to get out and celebrate. Before heading out, be sure to confirm event details, parking information and weather plans with organizers.
Neighbor Appreciation Day 2026
When: Saturday, July 4, 2026; departure times vary
Where: The Essex Steam Train & Riverboat | 1 Railroad Ave, Essex
Admission: $29–$65
Find out what's happening in Essex-Chester-Deep Riverfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
America's 250th birthday is the perfect occasion to explore the Connecticut River Valley aboard the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat during Neighbor Appreciation Day. Residents of Essex, Deep River, Chester, Haddam and Old Saybrook can enjoy complimentary train and riverboat excursions with advance reservations, available on a first-come, first-served basis. Learn more about making a reservation at the link.
Find out what's happening in Essex-Chester-Deep Riverfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Independence Day Parade
When: Saturday, July 4, 2026, 10 a.m.
Where: Shoreline Community Center | Hartford Ave, Old Lyme
Admission: Free
A classic small-town celebration takes place in Old Lyme, about 10 minutes away, with the annual Sound View Beach Independence Day Parade. The family-friendly event features a marching band, decorated bikes and wagons, patriotic costumes, floats and prizes for children following the parade.
Independence Day Boat Parade
When: Saturday, July 4, 2026, 12–3 p.m.
Where: Connecticut River Museum | 67 Main St, Essex
Admission: $2.50
Celebrate Independence Day at the Connecticut River Museum with an afternoon of history, family activities and waterfront excitement. In honor of America's 250th anniversary, visitors can enjoy discounted admission, museum exhibits, a children's activity and the annual Independence Day Boat Parade featuring festive vessels and cannon fire.
Diva And The Playboys
When: Saturday, July 4, 2026, 2 p.m.
Where: The Pavilion | 85 Swan Ave, Old Lyme
Admission: Free
Live music takes center stage in Old Lyme, about 10 minutes away, when Diva and the Playboys perform at The Pavilion on July 4. The afternoon concert offers a festive way to celebrate Independence Day with energetic entertainment by the shoreline.
“What A Glorious Crash They Made” Revolutionary Songs With Richard Donahue
When: Saturday, July 4, 2026, 2:30 p.m.
Where: Lyme Public Library | 482 Hamburg Rd, Lyme
Admission: Free
History and music come together in Lyme, about 15 minutes away, during a special performance by musician and historian Richard Donahue at the Lyme Library. Attendees can enjoy Revolutionary War-era songs, sing-alongs and stories about the music that inspired America's fight for independence, along with lemonade and cookies following the program.
Bootleg Harmony
When: Saturday, July 4, 2026, 6–10 p.m.
Where: Sunset Bar & Grill, Water’s Edge Resort & Spa | 1525 Boston Post Rd, Westbrook
Admission: Free
Spend your Fourth of July evening enjoying live music from Bootleg Harmony, performing about 10 minutes away. The local trio brings together favorite hits spanning generations, from The Beatles to Chris Stapleton, for a fun-filled concert featuring rich harmonies and crowd-pleasing rhythms.
Have a safe and happy Fourth of July! Looking for even more ways to celebrate? Visit Patch's local events calendar for additional happenings in and around the Essex area.
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