Olivia Pellegrini

This year, Central Massachusetts offers many ways to celebrate and commemorate Independence Day. Celebrations and firework displays are not to be missed.

Auburn

The town of Auburn starts the evening off right with music, food, and activities in theme. Come on out to Pappas Recreation Complex on Pakachoag St. and enjoy face painting, a rock climbing wall, train rides and several other family-oriented events. The celebration runs from 5 pm to 10 pm on Thursday, June 29 with fireworks starting at 9:30 pm. And it’s free!

Worcester

If you’re looking for a patriotic night filled with memorable events and town pride, look no further than Worcester on the 30th of June, at 4 pm and onward. Just a day after Auburn’s celebrations, the event is sponsored by Fallon Health in Cristoforo Colombo Park on Shrewsbury Street. Highlights will include activities, games and food, as well as an appearance from Worcester Bravehearts’ mascot Jake the Lion. Also look forward to a flag raising and an orchestral performance from the acclaimed Massachusetts Symphony Orchestra, the latter of which will be led by conductor Myron Romanul. This last element is just one aspect of what makes the occasion so special. Experience vibrant scores of the ages and today, performed as if in counterpoint with the fireworks illuminating the skies.

Rain date is to be July 1.

Webster

Venture out to Webster on Saturday, July 1 for their annual festival on Lake Chaubunagungamaug. Memorial Beach Park is typically a relaxing enough place to be, and the fireworks occurring later on will add to the wistful quality of the afternoon and evening. The general time frame for Webster Lake’s annual independence day celebration will be from noon and onward. Rain date is July 2, cost to attend is $5 per car.

Northbridge Annual Fireworks Display

Town of Whitinsville also has an event to speak of: On Friday, June 30, come on out at 6 pm for a chance to celebrate the holiday with no damage to your wallet. A firework display begins at 9:15 pm, which will take place at Northbridge Middle School, Lasell Field, 171 Linwood Ave.

Sturbridge

Old Sturbridge Village goes colonial for the Fourth of July, with patriotic events and live musical performances on the Common. Visitors can enjoy a summer barbecue with beer and wine, along with 19th-century-inspired sports and “Farm Yard Games”. A reading and signing of the Declaration of Independence will take place on all four days, from July 1-4, and overall the Village is a leisurely and historical way to spend the holiday(s). Hours are 9:30-5 pm.

Rutland

Independence Day in Rutland is also one for the books. “It’s A Rutland Thing” takes place from July 1-4 this year, and these three days are filled with activity. Much of this is free, in various locations throughout Rutland. Events, food, music, and of course fireworks, are all highlights of Rutland’s observance. Fireworks are on July 3 at 9:20 pm in the evening.

Shrewsbury

Shrewsbury’s Parks and Recreation Department holds their annual 4th of July celebration on the day itself. Live music, face painting, and other games will take place all day in addition to a decorated bicycle and doll carriage parade for children around noon. Later on, visitors can enjoy a cookout, which includes vegetarian options. The event itself will be from 12-4 pm in Dean Park, 805 Main St., Shrewsbury. Bring $8 for unlimited access to events or call 508 841 8503 for more info.

Uxbridge

Another option is Uxbridge’s Premeer 4th of July Celebration at McCloskey Field. Premeer Real Estate sponsors an event running from afternoon to late evening on July 8, 4pm-9pm. Look forward to fireworks, food, music and more!

Fitchburg

Town of Fitchburg holds a parade on July 4th. Known for its community involvement, the town will begin its parade at 10am and march from Summer Street and into the Upper Common. Whether you’re viewing as a spectator or in the parade itself, this is one to attend!