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4th of July in Newburyport and Best Fireworks Displays

By Jenny Davis, Newburyport.com Correspondent
Jenny is a freelance writer who moved to Newburyport in 2016 with her two loves, partner Wade and their Mini Goldendoodle, Lexie. After 25 years of retail management on the North Shore, Jenny is now enjoying writing about the people and places in the area she proudly calls home. Her happy place is sitting with a book in a local coffee shop or running along the Clipper City Rail Trail.
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4th of July weekend in Newburyport offers many fun things to do! Experience the best shopping and dining that the North Shore has to offer and relax on Plum Island Beach. Check the Newburyport Events Calendar for details. If you’re looking for great places to watch the 4th of July fireworks, view our Newburyport VIP recommendations below for exceptional North Shore and Seacoast, NH venues.

Why doesn’t Newburyport host fireworks on the 4th of July? For locals this is a simple question to answer. The Newburyport fireworks are launched each year during the annual Yankee Homecoming celebration. Mark your calendar for the 2026 Yankee Homecoming fireworks on Saturday, August 1st, and view our Newburyport VIP recommendations for 4th of July fireworks and displays.

Riverside Park, Haverhill, MA – 9:00 pm FRIDAY, 7/3

Making the trip to Haverhill to catch their fireworks display on Friday, July 3rd may be perfect for you if you are booked on the 4th! Riverside Park will have various food trucks as well as live music that begins a 6 pm, and don’t forget face painting for the kids. Haverhill’s fireworks are the perfect family friendly event for Independence Day festivities.

South Mill Pond-Portsmouth, NH – 9:15 pm FRIDAY, 7/3

If you have other plans on the 4th of July but enjoy a great celebration, traveling to Portsmouth, NH to catch their fireworks display on Friday, July 3rd may be perfect for you! Located just a few blocks from downtown Portsmouth, South Mill Pond, across from City Hall, is a lovely spot to watch the festivities. As in years past, the city is planning for a family friendly event and please take note that it is alcohol-free and dogs are not allowed. The rain day is Sunday, July 5th.

Woodsom Farm – Amesbury, MA – 9:00 pm SATURDAY, 7/4

Fireworks in Newburyport’s neighboring city, Amesbury, on the 4th of July are the finale for the annual weeklong celebration known as Amesbury Days. Arrive early with your blankets and chairs to enjoy live music and a selection of food vendors starting at 6 pm.

Hampton Beach, NH – 9:30 pm Thursday, 7/4 

Fireworks are planned for the 4th of July on Hampton Beach. Fireworks are held all summer long on Hampton Beach but the display for the 4th is extra special. If you decide to go early, there is plenty to do and see along the busy boardwalk including many restaurants, shops and arcades.  Live music at The Sea Shell Stage starts at 7 pm. You may also witness one of the area’s most stunning sunsets.

Haverhill, MA – 9:30 pm SATURDAY, 7/4 

Fireworks are planned for the 4th of July on Hampton Beach. Fireworks are held all summer long on Hampton Beach but the display for the 4th is extra special. If you decide to go early, there is plenty to do and see along the busy boardwalk including many restaurants, shops, and arcades.  Live music at The Sea Shell Stage starts at 7 pm. You may also witness one of the area’s most stunning sunsets.

Salisbury Beach, MA – 10:15 pm SATURDAY, 7/4

Visit Salisbury Beach, just across the Merrimack River from Newburyport, to enjoy live music by Scott Brown & The Diplomats at 7:30 pm and the fireworks display at 10:15 pm. If you’re an animal lover, make sure to check out the Salisbury Beach Pet Parade from 6-7 pm on the Broadway Loop, now postponed to July 11th due to the heat. The Salisbury Beach Fireworks are launched from a barge You can also enjoy a beautiful view of these fireworks from the North Point of Plum Island Beach. Note, Plum Island parking lots reach capacity quickly over the holiday weekend.

Newburyport and Plum Island Beach are an excellent choice for 4th of July weekend! In addition, to great shopping and dining, check out Newburyport Whale Watch or brush up on your maritime history at the Custom House Maritime Museum. Visit the Newburyport Art Association or just chill on Plum Island Beach. If you’re in search of picturesque places to stay, we’ve got you covered! Whether you’re from the local area or planning a visit, consider downloading the Newburyport App for quick access to the Newburyport Events Calendar and Things to Do. Foodies and shoppers should check out the Newburyport VIP Discount Card for savings at many local restaurants, shops and places to stay.