Everything You Need To Know About Worcester's July 4 Fireworks, Festival

WORCESTER, MA — Worcester's traditional July 4 celebration is back in 2022 for the first time since before the pandemic, and this year's festival will have lots to see and do — from fireworks to music and food.

As in years before the pandemic, the Worcester Independence Day celebration will be held at East Park along Shrewsbury Street. Here's everything you need to know about Thursday's July 4 festivities:

WHAT

Worcester 2022 Independence Day celebration

WHEN

• 4 p.m. — East Park opens to revelers
• 4:30 p.m. — Food court and kids fun area open
• 5 p.m. — Music and entertainment start featuring WXLO FM
• 8:30 p.m. — Grafton native Ricky Duran performs
• 9:30 p.m. — Fireworks show begins

WHERE

East Park, 180 Shrewsbury St., Worcester

WEATHER

The rain date for the event is July 1, but it won't be necessary. The latest forecast calls for clear skies all day and night, plus temperatures in the mid-80s during the afternoon and early evening hours.

PARKING

There's on-street parking up and down Shrewsbury Street, and some businesses may be offering off-street parking for a fee. The closest parking garage is at Union Station, which is about a half-mile walk from East Park. You can also take a bus from the train station to the park.

TRANSIT

You can take the MBTA commuter rail from stations in Grafton, Westborough and beyond to Union Station. The WRTA bus route 15 runs up and down Shrewsbury Street from the central bus hub along Foster Street. All WRTA buses are free to ride.