Making Fourth of July Plans in Marblehead?

What to do this Fourth of July? We know you’re busy, so we're happy to do the research and find the best things to do and places to go, both locally and within reasonable striking distance. Patch has assembled a list of great family activities or events to help you celebrate Independence Day.

1. Ring the bell at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church - Free tours of the historic church are given daily from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., with Marblehead Arts Festival works on display in the Parish Hall. At 11 a.m., on July 4, enjoy St. Michael’s famous lobster lunch, then at noon, join the march to the church at noon, to help ring the bell celebrating the Declaration of Independence. Music director Doug Major will give a concert and quiz featuring famous American composers at noon on July 6.

2. Marblehead Fireworks and Harbor Illumination - Festivities will begin at 8:45 p.m., July 4, with the Harbor Illumination, followed by the lighting of the fuse for the Fireworks Forever show. Rain date is July 5.

3. Danvers Family Festival Fireworks – The event kicks off at Plains Park with a stage show at 6 p.m., and the fireworks display will begin around 9:30 p.m. Please be advised there are new safety and security requirements in place this year. Rain date is July 5.

4. Marblehead Festival of the Arts – Awards Night and the Film Festival are July 3, along with performing arts and art exhibits. On July 4, the Sand Sculpture Competition will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Devereaux Beach, where the Kite Festival and kite flying workshop will also take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Check out the complete calendar of events here.

5. Spamalot – If you want to avoid the fireworks crowds, or maybe just enjoy a little comic relief, check out live performances of Spamalot at Marblehead Little Theatre, July 5-7. Tickets are $15-$30.