With nearly 400 years of history under our belts, you better believe we celebrate the Fourth of July in a big way here on The Classic Coast.
Each year, the city puts on an Independence Day celebration complete with a 21 gun salute, tours of the historic Old Colony House, a reading of the Declaration of Independence and more. This year will be significant as it also marks America's 250th celebration.
Not to mention the oldest continuous Fourth of July celebration in the country in Bristol, four different firework shows, and plus, get the best seat in the house for fireworks aboard a number of harbor cruises.
Our top picks for your seaside Fourth of July below.
MAJOR CELEBRATIONS
Annual Bristol Fourth of July Parade
Back to Top of List- Where:
- Begins at the corner of Chestnut Street and Hope Street, Bristol
- When:
- July 4, 2026 at 10:30 AM
- Cost:
- Free
The oldest continuous Fourth of July celebration in the country, the Bristol Fourth of July Parade begins at the corner of Chestnut Street and Hope Street (Rt. 114) and ends on High Street, between State Street and Bradford Streets.

MORE DETAILS
Newport Independence Day Celebration
Back to Top of List- Where:
- Colony House, Newport
- When:
- July 4, 2026
- Cost:
- Free
A celebration of our country's independence, featuring:
9:00 AM: A Ceremony by the Aquidneck Island Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution at the grave site of Willam Ellery, Newport signer of the Declaration of Independence. Wreath laying and musket firing by the Artillery Company of Newport Common Burying Ground on Farewell Street.
9:00 AM: Opening of the Colony House for inspection hosted by the Newport Historical Society. Open from 9:00 - 11:00 AM. The Colony House will open the first and second floors to explore.
10:00 AM: A Patriotic Band Concert by the Newport Community Band, Eisenhower Park in Washington Square. Bring a chair and enjoy the music.
11:00 AM: Recreation of the first Rhode Island reading of the Declaration of Independence from the steps of the Colony House by Roy Lauth, President of the Rhode Island Society Sons of the Revolution, steps of the Colony House, Wahington Square.
11:30 AM: Concert of traditional Colonial music by the Pawtuxet Rangers fife line in Eisenhower Park.
12:00 PM: Twenty-one gun salute to the Nation by the Artillery Company of Newport using cannons cast by Paul Revere. Bells will ring from the Colony House and churches throughout the City of Newport. Cannons will fire from Fort Adams and other locations throughout the city.
Continuing a years long tradition, The Colony House will be open from 9:00 AM for visitors to explore the first floor.
MORE DETAILS

Celebrate the Fourth at Fort Adams
Back to Top of List- Where:
- Fort Adams State Park, Newport
- When:
- July 4, 2026 from 6:00 - 10:00 PM
- Cost:
- Free
Celebrate America’s 250th at Fort Adams State Park with an unforgettable evening of live music, family fun, and the best view of Newport’s spectacular harbor fireworks.
Gates open at 6:00 PM on Saturday, July 4th, with live music from 6:30 – 9:00 PM (artist to be announced). As the sun sets, settle in for a fireworks display beginning around 9:15 PM—one of the most iconic views in Newport.
MORE DETAILS
Public Reading of the Declaration of Independence
Back to Top of List- Where:
- Bicentennial Green at Old Stone Bridge, Main Road, Tiverton
- When:
- July 4, 2026 from 9:00 - 9:30 AM
This public reading is not like any other; those present are encouraged to read a marked passage from the Declaration so “We the People” can all participate!
Prior to the reading, a brief history of events of past years, including those leading up to the creation of the Declaration are recounted. Held rain or shine.
MORE DETAILS
Jamestown Independence Day Celebration
Back to Top of List- Where:
- East Ferry, Jamestown
- When:
- July 6, 2026
- Cost:
- Free
Make your way to East Ferry in Jamestown for their annual Independence Day Celebration. Think: fireworks show, live music from The Next Stop and the Jamestown Community Band, patriotic fun, and so much more!
- Music in Memorial Square kicks off at 7:00 PM
- Fireworks Display begins at 9:00 PM
MORE DETAILS
FIREWORK EXPEREINCES
PATRIOTIC EVENTS
- Bristol Fourth Concert Series
- Independence Weekend Kickoff Party at Newport Marriott
- Newport Classical Music Festival: Patriotic Pops with Fenway Brass and Percussion
- The Vanderbilt Fourth of July Roof Deck Soirée
- Fourth of July American Cookout & Fireworks at the Pavilion
- Guided tour of Patriots and Loyalists in the Common Burying Ground
- Independence Cup: Newport International Polo Series
- Linden Place's Annual Picnic
- Herreshoff July 4th Parade Viewing
Bristol Fourth Concert Series
Back to Top of List- Where:
- Roger Williams University, Bristol
- When:
- June 21 - July 2, 2026
Bristol Fourth of July Concert Series is back in Independence Park in downtown Bristol from June 21 - July 2, 2026.
THE SCHEDULE
- June 21: 7 Day Weekend
- June 22: Two Across | Amber Rose & The Renegades
- June 23: East Bay Summer Wind Ensemble | Heartland Band
- June 24: Bristol County Chorus | Beat Salad | Colby James & The Ramblers
- June 25: Jon Tyler Tro | Mr. Chubb
- June 26: Mt. Hope High School Showcase | The Back Burners | Eratoxica
- June 27: Navy Band Northeast Rhode Island Sound Popular Band | AK Cody & The Wicked Northmen
- June 28: Karaoke Competition Finals | Los Burros | Andre & The Giants
- June 29: Motion Avenue | Reload-Rock 'N' Roll Recharged
- June 30: Back in the Day
- July 1: 88th Army Band | David Tessier's All-Star Band
- July 2: Michelle Saylors Band | Timeless
MORE DETAILS
Independence Weekend Kickoff Party at Newport Marriott
Back to Top of List- Where:
- Newport Marriott Hotel & Spa, Newport
- When:
- July 3, 2026 from 3:00 - 7:00 PM
Celebrate Independence Day weekend a day early at Newport Marriott’s Hideaway Terrace.
Enjoy a specially curated prix-fixe BBQ menu featuring summer favorites, alongside refreshing seasonal cocktails. The party starts at 3:00 PM, but the terrace opens at noon if you'd like to arrive early and ease into the afternoon!
MORE DETAILS
Newport Classical Music Festival: Patriotic Pops with Fenway Brass and Percussion
Back to Top of List- Where:
- King Park, Newport
- When:
- July 4, 2026 at 8:00 PM
- Cost:
- Free
Make your way to King Park for a relaxed open-air concert to kick off your Fourth of July festivities (and the Newport Classical Music Festival!).
Fenway Quintet is one of the Boston Area’s most esteemed professional brass quintets. Come celebrate America’s birthday by listening to instruments that helped define this country’s sound.
Bring your whole family, get cozy, and stay for the fireworks right after.
MORE DETAILS
The Vanderbilt Fourth of July Roof Deck Soirée
Back to Top of List- Where:
- The Vanderbilt, Newport
- When:
- July 4, 2026 from 7:00 - 10:00 PM
- Cost:
- $260 per ticket
Get into the Fourth of July spirit with a perfect summer night spent on the Roof Deck at The Vanderbilt.
Take in sweeping views of Newport Harbor and get a front row seat to the annual harbor fireworks show. Enjoy an open bar and light bites as you take in the sounds of live DJ entertainment at one of Newport's best 4th of July celebration.
MORE DETAILS
Fourth of July American Cookout & Fireworks at the Pavilion
Back to Top of List- Where:
- Newport Harbor Island Resort, Newport
- When:
- July 4, 2026 from 6:00 - 10:00 PM
- Cost:
- $55 per adult (inclusive of tax & gratuity), $25 per child under 10 (inclusive of tax & gratuity)
Kick off July 4th Weekend at Newport Harbor Island Resort's American Cookout at The Pavilion. Enjoy a delicious spread, live grilling, and live music, all set against the backdrop of the Newport Bridge.
MORE DETAILS
Guided tour of Patriots and Loyalists in the Common Burying Ground
Back to Top of List- Where:
- Island Cemetery, Newport
- When:
- July 4, 2026 at 9:00 AM
- Cost:
- Free to Attend
Newport was an important city during the American War of Independence. Everyone in the city was directly affected during the war years and the tour will feature selected people that reflect what many were experiencing. Meet loyalists, patriots, soldiers and politicians who lived and died in the fight for independence.
The tour will begin at the Warner Street entrance to the site. Parking is available in the neighborhood.
The July 4th tour will start at 9:00 AM at the grave of William Ellery.
MORE DETAILS
Independence Cup: Newport International Polo Series
Back to Top of List- Where:
- Newport International Polo Series, Portsmouth
- When:
- July 4, 2026 from 1:00 - 8:00 PM
- Cost:
- Lawn: $25, Tables: $70-280, Tailgate: $125, Chalet: $150, Children: Free
The Independence Cup brings America’s 250th anniversary to life at Newport Polo with a day of picnicking, patriotic style, live music, and a reading of the Declaration of Independence.
Enjoy a stirring national anthem performance, followed by the recognition of active military in uniform (who are invited to attend at no charge), and march in the Color Guard to honor the spirit of service and sacrifice.

MORE DETAILS
Linden Place's Annual Picnic
Back to Top of List- Where:
- Linden Place, Bristol
- When:
- July 4, 2026
- Cost:
- SOLD OUT
Located at the center of the parade route, there is no place like Linden Place on the 4th of July!
On Saturday, July 4, 2026, Linden Place, a historic mansion in the heart of Bristol, will host its annual Fourth of July Parade Picnic, a tradition for over 30 years!
Picnic-goers will enjoy bleacher-style seating, tables and chairs under the shade of the Linden trees, a continental breakfast and picnic lunch, restroom facilities and plenty of elbow room! Tour the mansion, stroll the gardens and enjoy every moment of Bristol’s festive atmosphere.
This picnic always sells out so don’t miss Bristol’s biggest event of the year.
MORE DETAILS

Herreshoff July 4th Parade Viewing
Back to Top of List- Where:
- Herreshoff Marine Museum, Bristol
- When:
- July 4, 2026 at 7:45 AM
- Cost:
- SOLD OUT
Get a front row seat for one of Bristol’s most beloved traditions—head to Herreshoff Marine Museum's annual 4th of July Parade viewing event!
Located along the historic parade route, the Museum offers a front-row seat to the oldest continuously celebrated Independence Day parade in the country.
MORE DETAILS
MORE PATRIOTIC EVENTS
- Vernon House
- Recurring daily
Revolutionary Vernon House June 26 – September 27, 2026 This exhibit will tell the stories of the people connected to Vernon House who played a significant role in the American Revolution—including Cato Vernon (ca.1759-unrecorded), a ship carpenter and revolutionary war…
Discover Colonial Newport Walking Tour Take a walk through the heart of 18th century Newport. Explore well-preserved colonial architecture, and learn about the diverse community that shaped this historic seaport town. This tour lasts approximately 75-90 mins. Hear stories of…
- Hunter House
- Recurring weekly on Tuesday, Saturday
Loyalty or Liberty: Tales from Revolutionary Newport Written by Ken Green, Patrick Gabridge & Lily Mathews, Directed by Rachel Walshe Dates: June 30 - September 1, 2026 from 6:00 to 7:15 PM Location: Hunter House, 54 Washington Street, Newport Tickets: $40 per person Offered…
Rum & Revolution with Rum Tasting From the thriving colonial rum trade through the temperance movement and Prohibition era smuggling, learn about the changing role of alcohol in the Newport community. This tour lasts approximately 75 minutes and it concludes at Stoneacre…
Newport’s British Occupation - Walking Tour In 1777 as the Revolutionary War officially began, 7,000 British and Hessian soldiers invaded Newport creating an occupation that lasted for nearly 3 years. Explore the sites and stories of the soldiers and citizens affected during this…
All Things Americana
Learn more below about where to find Semiquincentennial swag and spirited specials.
Semiquincentennial Swag
Back to Top of ListThe time is now to deck out for 250th. Think: classic Americana wear, quality local products, and keepsakes to commemorate this historical year.
Find flags, signature souvenirs, baseball caps, books, soaps, and homeware in the following local shops. A little bit of everything that is tried and true. Classic.
CLOTHING
Frazzleberries 📍 475 Thames Street, Newport
- Flag sweaters
- Blue flag hats
- Red lobster hats

Kiel James Patrick 📍 3 Bowen’s Wharf, Newport
- New England Lobster Cardigan
- American Sail Intarsia Sweater
- Stars & Stripes Cardigan
- American Stripes Rollneck Sweater
Sunbent 📍 359 Thames Street, Newport
- Summers in Newport Tees, Tanks & Hoodies
- July Sweater
- All American Crewneck
- Low Rise USA Denim Pants
- Stitched Lobster Sweater
- Lobster Daiquiri Club Top
Big Weather Gear 📍 154 Thames Street, Newport
Henri Lloyd launches July 1st exclusively at BWG!
This esteemed brand in marine technology offers some of the best selection of nautical options to wear on the water or through the seascape corridors of Newport.
Therapy Boutique 📍 18 State Street, Bristol
- Star Spangled Blanket
- Freedom 250 Travel Tin Candle
- Americana Plant Stakes
- Assortment of themed hair accessories
- US of YAY Gummies
- Liberty Bow Mini Tote
- Americana Bead Wine Bag
- Americana Bottle Openers
- Star Stud Earrings
Fenwick + Oliver 📍 474 Thames Street, Bristol
- Bristol 250th hats and shirts
- Bristol 250 tote
- Patriotic Levi Star 4th of July Napkins
- Book: “The Greatest Sentence Ever Written” by Walter Isaacson
- America 250 stemless wine glass
- Rhode Island Smallest State in the Union Magnet
- Betsy Ross Sticker
- USA Porch Flag Plate
- U.S. Constitution Rocks Glass
Other Shops to Find Spirited Swag
Palm & Sage
Palm and Sage is a sister boutique of Malibu Friday offering women's clothing, accessories, jewelry… Read More
Essentials
A refreshing mix of clothing, gifts, accessories, and more! Read More
Groove Newport
Fun, fashionable clothing for women and tweens from unique and whimsical collections. Read More
Beau Bleu Boutique & Gifts
Boutique gift store located in downtown Bristol, RI. Read More
Malibu Friday Boutique
Curated pretty clothing. Read More
Life is Good Newport
Women's, Men's, Children's clothing and accessories. Read More
Brandy Melville
Brandy Melville is a women's clothing and accessories store. Read More
Royal Male
Selling only quality British and European clothing and accessories to a discriminating customer. Read More
KEEPSAKES
Beehive Handmade 📍 332 Water Street, Warren
Find hand-wrought Revolutionary Pewter housewares with simplistic sayings inspired by the understated elegance of utilitarian objects in colonial America.
Teaspoons, tea infusers, matchboxes, and letter openers have been engraved with phrases ranging from revolutionary war battles to historical figures and pop history references.
Available: Now - November 26, 2026
Shop Hours: Tuesdays - Saturdays, 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Newport Historical Society 📍 Newport
Bring history into your home. Purchase your very own Newport Historical Society (NHS) Witness flag, custom made by Maritime Tribes. These flags are a symbol of Newport’s outsized role in the Revolution and a unique decor piece to commemorate the 250th!
Available: All year round, contact 401-846-0813 x110 or email: membership@newporthistory.org to purchase.
The Sailing Museum & Hall of Fame 📍 365 Thames Street, Newport
- Mugs
- Cutting Boards
- “Give me Liberty, Give me a Drink” Cocktail Book
- Legends of American Sailing Book
- Ship themed match sets
Frazzleberries 📍 475 Thames Street, Newport
- Mugs
- Flag Coasters
- Car Coasters - USA and Nautical Themes
- Art Prints
- Scented soaps (“American Coast” Shea Butter Soap)
- Flag gimlet glasses
COMING SOON
Trinity300: Semper Eadem: The History of Trinity Church 📍 Newport
In honor of celebrating 300 years, Trinity Church will release copies of “Semper Eadem: The History of Trinity Church, 1698-2026” for purchase and distribution in September 2026.
More Places to Find Merchandise
The White Horse Tavern
At The White Horse Tavern we strive to create a fresh, contemporary culinary experience in America’s… Read More
Rough Point
Rough Point is the oceanfront estate of Doris Duke—heiress, philanthropist, and art collector—still… Read More
Newport Mansions Store
Welcome to the Newport Mansions store. We are proud to present here a wonderful selection of… Read More
The Black Pearl
The Black Pearl is one of Newport's best-known and best-loved restaurants. From the warm ambience… Read More
The Shop at Blithewold
The Shop at Blithewold offers a shop with a wide collection of unique elegant items, such as ladies… Read More
Linden Place Gift Shop
Curated gift shop with unique items, one of a kind gifts, local and handmade items, books and home… Read More
Bowen Wharf Pilot House
The Pilot House offers quality gifts and souvenirs as well as commemorative merchandise. Read More
Herreshoff Marine Museum Store
Apparel, accessories, store homewares, gifts, games and books. Read More
Shop at Fort Adams
A fine gift shop with many souvenirs and apparel. Read More
Museum Store at Little Compton Historical Society
A fine collection of art, prints, books, puzzles, maps, and gifts. Read More
Revolutionary Fare & Drinks
Back to Top of ListLIFE, LIBERTY, AND $1 MARTINIS EVERY FRIDAY
Where: 📍 Stoneacre Brasserie, 28 Washington Square, Newport
When: Every Friday from 11:30 AM to 4:00 PM
Call it revolutionary. Call it historic. Call it your new standing reservation.
Stoneacre Brasserie welcomes you to exercise your right to a very good time with $1 martinis every Friday for lunch. Choose from a classic Gin or Vodka Martini, Proper Gimlet, or Cosmopolitan.
$1 martini deal available with any purchase of sushi, appetizers, sandwiches, or main courses.
Toast to life, liberty, and the pursuit of a perfectly chilled cocktail.

BRISTOL 250TH RUM
Where: 📍 O’Brien & Brough, 500 Wood Street, Bristol
Crafted inside O’Brien & Brough in Unity Park, a special 250th themed rum, including 100% organic fair trade whole cane panela sugar from Costa Rica, will be available for purchase this fall.
This family-owned distillery and blending house in historic Bristol is known for small-batch spirits thoughtfully crafted on a commitment to transparency, responsible sourcing, and community.
Fast Facts:
- Made from 100% organic, fair-trade, non-GMO, vegan, whole cane panela sugar from Costa Rica
- Extended fermentation using a Rhum Agricole yeast strain from the Caribbean
- Distilled once through a copper helmet pot still
- The rum is maturing in ex-Bourbon American oak barrels in Bristol
- 100% fermented, distilled, and aged at O’Brien & Brough distillery
The 250th commemorative rum will be bottled in 500 ml. infinity glass to preserve natural flavors, with decorative front labels of bonded book leather and gold foil pressed by DWRI Letterpress.
Official Release: November 30, 2026
JULY DRINK SPECIALS FOR AMERICA 250
Where: 📍 Wyndham Newport, 240 Aquidneck Ave, Middletown
Find these historically named cocktails throughout Independence month at Wyndham Newport!
- The Burning Gaspee ($15): Mount Gay rum, Allspice Dram, Black tea, lemonade, splash of soda and a pinch of salt.
- Boston Tea Party ($12): Deep Eddy Sweet Tea vodka, Peach Schnapps, and lemonade.
- Nathanael Greene ($13): Sons of Liberty Honey Whiskey and apple cider.
- Astro Bomb ($12): Three Olives Raspberry vodka, margarita mix, grenadine, and blue curaçao.
- Beer of the Month ($8): Narragansett, 250th Anniversary limited edition Lager *while supplies last
INDEPENDENCE SPRITZ & THE ROYAL TOWER
Where: 📍 Forty 1 North, 351 Thames Street, Newport
INDEPENDENCE SPRITZ
Celebrate America's 250th Anniversary with our limited edition Independence Spritz. Layered with blue curaçao, lychee, and strawberry, this red white and blue cocktail is inspired by summer on Newport Harbor.
Available: Exclusively from July 2-5, 2026.
Royal Tower (Cost: $600)
Indulge and toast to America with The Royal Tower at Forty 1 North.
The $600 package includes:
- 30G Royal Ossetra Caviar
- 30G Royal Baika Caviar
- Salmon Poke
- Oysters on the half shell
- Tuna Tartar and accompaniments
- Bottle of Veuve Clicquot
Available: Exclusively from July 2-5, 2026.

Patriotic Packages
Back to Top of ListCelebrate milestone birthdays across The Classic Coast with these one-of-a-kind patriotic packages.
SPEND AMERICA’S 250TH BIRTHDAY AT SONESTA
Sonesta Select Newport Middletown 📍 9 Commerce Drive, Middletown
Book with Sonesta for your July 4th getaway and enjoy a 17.76% discount off any available room with a continental breakfast included for up to 4 people.
Redeemable: Now - July 6, 2026 (Book by July 3rd!)
Terms and Conditions: A minimum 2-night stay is required. Discount is good towards stays between July 2 until July 6.
Learn More
STARS, STRIPES, AND SAVE UP TO 20%
Newport Harbor Hotel & Marina 📍 49 America's Cup Avenue, Newport
Summer flash sale in Newport! Save up to 20% off your Newport stay now through June 30, 2027 when you book by July 6, 2026. Plan ahead and enjoy exclusive savings to celebrate America 250!
Redeemable: Now - June 30, 2027 (Book by July 6th!)
Terms and Conditions: Applicable to new reservations only. Cannot be combined with any other offers, packages, or group rates. Blackout dates and other restrictions may apply. Subject to availability at the time of booking. Discount applied to room rate only.
Learn More
NEWPORT POLO EXPERIENCE - 150TH ANNIVERSARY
Hammetts Hotel 📍 4 Commercial Wharf, Newport
Make it a Newport summer and celebrate 150 years of polo with two (2) complimentary tickets to a Saturday match. Thrilling matches, stunning horses, and the lively energy of this iconic tradition await.
Redeemable: Now - September 26, 2026
Terms and Conditions: Valid on weekend stays June 6 - September 26, 2026. Friday - Saturday or Saturday - Sunday. Call for more details, subject to availability, terms and conditions apply.
HOTEL VIKING CENTENNIAL EXPERIENCE - 100TH ANNIVERSARY
Hotel Viking 📍 1 Bellevue Avenue, Newport
Be among the first to celebrate a century of timeless hospitality in the reimagined Hotel Viking alongside America 250.
Book the Centennial Experience to enjoy:
- Champagne welcome ‘cheers’ to the property
- Two (2) nights in a renovated suite
- A Chef’s tasting for two at Pescadou
- $100 credit to Spa Fjör
Redeemable: Book by June 30, 2026. Valid on stays through December 31, 2026.
Terms and Conditions: Use promo code: 100YEARS. Valid for new reservations only. Blackout dates apply. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Subject to availability and not valid for group bookings.
Learn More
HERO OFFERS
Find discounts for active duty, retired military, first responders, nurses, and more! A token of thanks for serving our country proud.
Newport Harbor Island Resort
A seaside oasis, Newport Harbor Island Resort offers a wide variety of waterfront eateries featuring… Read More
Island House Newport Hotel
Island House Newport provides a refined yet approachable luxe experience, perfect for families… Read More
Hammetts Hotel
Hammetts is an upscale boutique hotel on the Newport waterfront, unlike anything else in the city… Read More
Wayfinder Newport
Wayfinder Newport is a new boutique hotel with over-sized rooms, ample parking, and award-winning… Read More
The Spa at Newport Marriott
Rejuvenate your mind-body-spirit balance in this luxurious oasis of serenity. Directly on the… Read More
The Attwater
This boldly original Newport hotel offers coastal-chic rooms and super-spacious suites. The Urban… Read More
The Cliffside Inn
The Cliffside Inn is a charming, historic boutique inn located in the heart of Newport. Our 16 rooms… Read More
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